Posted on Friday 12th September 2025
Staffordshire Open Doors programme team at the Reverse Jobs and Careers Fair
Employment candidates were able to showcase their skills to businesses looking to recruit at the first event of its kind held by the county council.
The Reverse Jobs and Careers Fair was organised by the county council’s Staffordshire Jobs and Careers Service – which matches people seeking jobs with employers based on the needs of both candidate and business.
Held at local independent business Alberts Café in Stafford’s Victoria Park, the event focused on networking and meaningful conversations which could lead to employment opportunities. Each candidate was selected by the jobs and careers service team, which invited employers interested in their skillsets.
Businesses included Rugeley-based Techcare Digital, which provides website, video production and digital service support, and salad production company Florette UK, based in Lichfield.
Service delivery manager at Techcare, Lewis Lydiard, said:
It’s really interesting to hear the candidates telling their story and giving their experiences. I’ve had some really good conversations; one in particular with someone from Rugeley relatively close to where Techcare is based. We talked a lot about his experience with cybersecurity and development, which really aligns with what Techcare offers – and potential pathways we could put him on.
It has been eye opening to speak to all these people about their journey with finding a job in the industry. I was recently put in touch with the Staffordshire Jobs and Careers Service and just really like the initiative and what the team is doing. I’m going to explore more options about working more closely with them.”
Will Kaye, recruitment officer from Florette UK:
The Reverse Jobs and Careers Fair was a unique change and created a comfortable casual environment to discuss roles, careers, and provide advice to proactive job seekers. It was a great event and well worth attending – we will be sure to attend future events as it flips the narrative towards a much more personal discussion that is more fruitful to both employer and job seeker.”
One candidate said:
I thought the event was fantastic. It was nice to be in front of recruiters and talk to them about my experience. I’ve connected with two businesses on LinkedIn. We talked about a possible future in HR and I was told my communication skills and personality would be great for it.”
Martin Murray, Staffordshire County Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for economy and skills said:
Our jobs and careers service is doing an important job for potential employees and businesses in Staffordshire – matching people’s skills with suitable opportunities.
This first Reverse Jobs and Careers Fair has enabled people to showcase their skills to local businesses, building connections and giving them experience and confidence. Businesses taking part have said how beneficial they found the event too.
The service can now build on this and provide more people with openings to jobs and training in the future.”
The county council’s work placement programme Open Door team was also in attendance at the event last Wednesday, offering advice on employability and skills development.
More information can be found on the Staffordshire Jobs and Careers website.