Thinking About HR Transformation Consulting? Let’s Chat at CIPD!

Veran Is Heading to the CIPD Annual Conference - and This Time, We’re Meeting Talent in Person!

This year, the Veran team is thrilled to be sponsoring the CIPD Annual Conference - and we’re doing something a little different.

As well as our stand at E19 (come and check us out for a chance to win a race day experience!), you’ll find us attending sessions, networking across the Great Hall, and - most excitingly - meeting incredible HR talent face-to-face through in-person screening meetings right at the event.

It’s an exciting time for Veran. As a growing HR Transformation Consultancy, we’re always looking to meet brilliant people who share our passion for shaping the future of work. And what better place to find inspiring and aspiring HR professionals than at the CIPD Conference?

We caught up with Veran Recruiter Millie Smith, who will be at the conference along with Transformation Director Joe Thursfield-Walton, HR & Operations Apprentice, Alex Foote, and Head of HR & Operations, Sam Fearn. We asked Millie what she’s most looking forward to - and why she can’t wait to meet people in person.

A First-Time Attendee, Full of Excitement

“I’m really looking forward to attending my first CIPD Conference!” she says with a smile. “It’s such a brilliant opportunity to connect with fellow HR professionals and thought leaders, and I always come away from events like this feeling energised and full of fresh ideas.”

For Millie, the event is about much more than just networking. It’s about immersing herself in the conversations shaping the future of the HR profession - particularly in areas like Talent Acquisition, which is evolving faster than ever thanks to new technologies, data-driven decision-making, and a growing focus on employee experience.

“I’m especially keen to explore the latest trends in Talent Acquisition and how they’re influencing the wider world of HR,” she adds. “It’s such an exciting time to be in this field.”

Looking to Connect With HR Professionals Who Love Change

At Veran, transformation is at the heart of everything we do - and that’s exactly the type of mindset the team is hoping to find at the conference.

“We’re really looking to connect with HR professionals working in the transformation space, or who have an interest in HR digital transformation,” Millie explains. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet people who’ve led HR transformation in-house, guided their organisations through complex change, and would love to use their experience and skills to help others.”

That’s where the in-person screening meetings come in. Instead of a phone call or video chat, conference attendees can book a slot to sit down with the Veran team for a genuine, open conversation about consulting, career development, and what life at Veran is really like.

Why Meeting Face-to-Face Makes a Difference

There’s something special about meeting someone in person - especially at an event like CIPD, where the energy and enthusiasm are contagious.

“One of the great things about offering in-person screening meetings at the CIPD Conference is the chance to meet people we might not have crossed paths with otherwise,” says Millie. “Having those conversations face-to-face just makes it easier to connect, get a real sense of someone’s passion and personality — and share what working in consulting is really like. It’s a great way to go beyond a typical screening call!”

She adds that these relaxed, in-person conversations often lead to more meaningful discussions - the kind that stick with you long after the event. “You can tell a lot more about a person when you’re chatting over a coffee than you can over the phone,” she laughs.

Sessions That Are Sparking Inspiration

Of course, no one goes to the CIPD Conference without checking out a few of the brilliant sessions on offer. While Millie will be focused on meeting candidates, the wider Veran team has their eyes on several sessions that align perfectly with the company’s current focus areas.

“Our team is especially interested in the case study on inclusive apprenticeships, which will support the continuous improvement of our own Associate Consulting Pathway,” she explains. “We’re always looking for ways to make our pathways more inclusive and supportive of diverse talent entering consulting.”

Other sessions catching the team’s attention include ‘Strategic Workforce Planning’ and ‘Trend-Proof Benefits’ — both closely linked to Veran’s ongoing work to review and enhance the benefits we offer employees as we continue to grow.

“There’s such a great mix of practical insight and big-picture strategy in this year’s agenda,” she adds. “It’s the perfect balance of inspiration and implementation.”

Building Stronger Connections With the HR Community

For Veran, events like the CIPD Annual Conference aren’t just about recruitment - they’re about relationships.

“Events like this help bring the recruitment process to life,” says Millie. “It’s a chance for candidates to meet the faces behind the roles and to have open, relaxed conversations - which is often when you learn the most!”

She continues, “We love staying engaged with the wider HR community. Whether or not someone is looking for a new role right now, it’s always valuable to share ideas and experiences. The conference is such a great way to strengthen those relationships.”

Join Veran at the CIPD Annual Conference

If you’re heading to the CIPD Annual Conference this year, make sure to come and say hello at stand E19! Whether you’re curious about what consulting at Veran looks like, exploring new career opportunities, or simply want to chat about the latest trends in HR transformation and AI, we’d love to meet you.

And if you’d like to book an in-person screening meeting with Veran during the conference, arrange a time that suits you.

We can’t wait to connect, collaborate, and share ideas about the future of HR. See you at CIPD!