Jesse is an experienced Head of Talent & Recruitment with a proven track record in designing and delivering talent acquisition strategies for world-renowned organisations. Currently serving at the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), she leads efforts to attract and retain exceptional talent that propels the institute’s mission forward. With over a decade of experience spanning government, charity, and research sectors, Jesse brings deep expertise in building inclusive, high-impact recruitment frameworks.
Beyond strategy, Jesse is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, actively championing equitable hiring practices and fostering inclusive workplace cultures. Within ICR, she leads internal networks focused on belonging and representation, creating spaces for dialogue, support, and systemic change.
What’s a recent professional achievement of yours that you are proud of?
A recent professional achievement I’m proud of is leading the transformation of our recruitment strategy at the Institute of Cancer Research to embed inclusive hiring practices across all departments. This included redesigning our candidate experience, introducing inclusive language guidance for job adverts, and launching targeted outreach initiatives to diversify our talent pipeline. I also convened a cross-functional working group to ensure our approach was co-created and sustainable.
One of the most meaningful outcomes has been a measurable improvement in our gender pay gap. By addressing structural barriers in recruitment and promoting transparency in progression pathways, we’ve seen a narrowing of the gap over the past year — a reflection of our commitment to equity and long-term cultural change. This work has not only strengthened our recruitment outcomes but also deepened trust and engagement across the organisation.
What is your prediction for the future of the TA industry?
I think the future of Talent Acquisition is going to be all about balance — using tech to make things smarter and faster, but not losing the human touch. AI and automation will help with things like sourcing and screening, but what will really matter is how we use those tools to build fairer, more inclusive hiring experiences. I see TA becoming more strategic — not just about filling roles, but shaping culture, driving equity, and making sure organisations reflect the communities they serve.
What projects are you planning on working on in 2026?
Next year is already shaping up to be full-on, but the standout project for me is the London Cancer Hub — a multi-million-pound investment that’s set to position London as the global centre for cancer research and innovation. I’ll be leading the recruitment strategy for this landmark initiative, helping to build the workforce from the ground up and attract world-class talent to a truly world-class endeavour. It’s a rare opportunity to be part of something transformative, and I’m proud to play a role in shaping the future of research in the UK.