Christy joined Edelman in January 2023 as Head of Talent Acquisition for the Middle East, where she leads recruitment across key markets including the UAE and KSA. She partners closely with business leaders to align talent strategies with evolving market needs and ambitious growth targets. Christy brings over 15 years of global experience across technology (Microsoft), aviation (SITA), and banking (HSBC, Standard Chartered). She is known for crafting scalable, inclusive, and data-driven hiring frameworks that drive business performance and enhance talent engagement.
She holds certifications in Project Management (PMP) and HR Management, along with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, equipping her with both the analytical and people-centered skills required to navigate today’s complex talent landscape.
Outside of work, Christy is committed to wellness and balance. She hits the gym daily, focusing on CrossFit, weight training, and high-intensity workouts, which help fuel her energy and focus. A passionate traveller and explorer, she loves discovering new cultures, cities, and cuisines whenever she gets the chance.
What’s a professional achievement of yours from 2024 that you are proud of?
– Partnered with CEO and business leaders to track ongoing hiring needs, resulting in a 40% increase in UAE headcount since July last year.
– Produced TA metrics for quarterly and annual business reviews, driving a 20% improvement in recruitment efficiency.
-Standardized interview stages and introduced structured evaluation criteria, reducing time-to-hire and increasing candidate retention by 10% within the first year.
-Managed end-to-end recruitment for senior roles, reducing time-to-fill by 45%.
Identified and partnered with external providers, ensuring 95% of hiring needs were met.
-Defined and led projects focused on continuous improvement, achieving a 5% increase in international mobility, 10% hiring manager and candidate satisfaction scores.
How has the RL Community helped you this year?
Although I’m still in the early stages of officially joining the RL community, I’ve already started engaging through various channels. I’ve enjoyed attending networking sessions such as HR Talent group, Tribe and I also participated in RecFest, which introduced me to the collaborative and knowledge-sharing culture of the field. Additionally, following TA experiences and technical discussions on LinkedIn has given me valuable exposure to current trends and practical insights in reinforcement learning. These interactions have motivated me to become more involved and continue learning from the community.
What is your prediction for the TA industry for 2025?
In 2025, the Talent Acquisition industry will continue to be shaped by AI-driven tools, data analytics, and remote hiring processes. Companies will increasingly prioritise diversity, equity, and inclusion not just as a value, but as a measurable hiring metric. Also, employer branding and candidate experience will become even more critical, especially as top talent has more choices, particularly in growth markets like the Middle East. I also foresee a stronger shift toward skills-based hiring, where practical capabilities outweigh formal education. Staying adaptable and tech-savvy will be essential for TA professionals to succeed in this evolving landscape.