Employee case study:
Liam Twist

Can you tell us about your current role and what a typical day looks like for you?

No two days are ever quite the same in compliance, which is one of the things I enjoy the most about the role. Typically, my week begins with preparing and processing compliance checks for candidates who are due to start new roles – this includes verifying Right to Work documents, collecting references, and requesting any additional paperwork that may be required (e.g. proof of qualifications).

Alongside that, I’m also responsible for training newer team members and supporting them with any queries they might have, particularly around more complex cases. We often need to adapt quickly depending on the business needs – for example, if there’s an external audit, a large intake of new starters, or urgent requests from Consultants, we’ll reshuffle priorities to make sure everything stays on track.

A big part of my role is collaborating with different teams across the business, making sure we’re all aligned and that candidates are cleared and ready to start as smoothly and efficiently as possible.  

What kind of tasks did you start with when you first joined and how have they evolved?

When I first joined Sellick Partnership, I started with tasks that sat around the main compliance process – things like tracking contract end dates for all active placements. When those dates were getting close, we’d liaise with the MSP (Managed Service Provider) or check in with the Consultant to prompt for extensions.

It was all about supporting the wider process and understanding how everything fits together without being thrown straight into the deep end.

I also helped with more administrative tasks like uploading CVs to our system, assisting with documentation renewals such as DBS applications, and keeping key information up to date. These early tasks gave me a really solid foundation in how the team operates and what’s required to make the process run smoothly.

Over time, as I built my knowledge and confidence, I took on more ownership of the full compliance lifecycle – from initial candidate onboarding to audits and training others in the team. The structure at Sellick Partnership really allows you to ease in gently, learn how the business works, and then grow into more responsibility in a way that feels natural. The way we do things here is quite unique, so getting to grips with ‘the Sellick Partnership way’ has been key to my development.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in a junior compliance role at Sellick Partnership?

My biggest piece of advice would be to be patient with yourself. There’s a lot of information to take in at the start, and while the process might sound straightforward when it’s explained, there are so many little details and moving parts that you only really grasp once you’re in the thick of it. It can feel overwhelming at first, but things do start to click the more you get stuck in.

Ask as many questions as you need – there’s no such thing as a silly question and everyone in the team knows exactly how it feels to be new and to have questions. The more you ask, the faster you’ll understand the bigger picture and how everything fits together.

I would say it’s also really helpful if you can share how you best learn – whether that’s through doing, observing, or taking notes – so we can tailor the support to suit you. We want to set people up for success, and knowing how someone learns best helps us deliver the training and guidance in the most effective way.

How would you describe the support and training you received when you first joined?

The support and training I received when I first joined was excellent and it’s been the same as I’ve continued through my career. From day one, the team made me feel welcome, and everyone around me was so helpful and approachable.

There are clear user guides to help you get started, but what made the biggest difference was being sat with colleagues who were happy to show me things step-by-step. It’s very much a hands-on environment where you’re supported as you learn.

We always check in with one another, and if someone is feeling overwhelmed or unsure, there’s always someone there to talk to. You’re encouraged to go at your own pace, and the progression is led by you. If you’re ready to take on more, you can – and if you need more time or guidance, that’s totally fine too.

Everyone also goes through a full onboarding session with Simon Briffa and Ella Mason when they join, which gives a great overview of the business and helps you understand how all the different teams work together. Plus, we have an internal Training and Development Director, which means if you ever feel there’s something specific you need support with, tailored training can be sourced or developed to meet that need.

You’ve been promoted a number of times since joining; were there any formal development plans or goals in place to help guide your career path?

Yes there were – we have quarterly check-ins or one-to-ones where we sit down and reflect on where we are currently, where we want to go, and what steps we need to take to get there. It’s not just a box-ticking exercise either – it’s a meaningful conversation about your personal goals and how the business can support you in reaching them.

There’s always a focus on development, and I’ve been encouraged to think about what I want my next step to look like. Recently, I had a conversation with my manager about whether I see myself moving into business development or taking on more responsibility in terms of people management. That kind of ongoing dialogue really helps you shape your career in a way that works for you and your strengths.

How would you describe the team culture within the compliance team?

Honestly, we have a really close-knit team – everyone brings something different to the table, but we have a mutual respect for each other. We all have a clear understanding of each other’s roles, and that allows us to work really efficiently. There’s a genuine sense of support, and if someone’s having a busy day or needs a hand, there’s always someone willing to step in.

As we’ve developed as a team and refined our processes, there’s been a real sense of appreciation for the work we do and the importance of getting it right. That’s been really rewarding – we know that our efforts are appreciated  

We also make time to step away from the day-to-day pressures and catch up off-site, which helps keep that strong bond going. It’s a great balance of professionalism, collaboration, and fun. Not to mention, we’re award winners; the compliance team were recognised in 2024 as the Support Service Team of the Year at the APSCo Awards for Excellence, and we also won Most Effective Compliance Operation at the Recruiter Awards.

How would you describe the company culture more broadly – beyond your team?

It’s really lovely, everyone gets on well, no matter what team or department you’re in; there’s a real sense of community across the business. We have quarterly socials, award celebrations, the Christmas party and our annual Teambuilding event, which is held in September. They’re always brilliant occasions that bring everyone together and make you feel part of something bigger.

Even outside of the organised events, people are always making an effort. Whether it’s celebrating someone’s birthday with cards and presents on their desk or arranging things outside of work, there’s always something going on. I’ve even been on holiday with colleagues, which says a lot about the friendships that are built here. It’s a culture that really values people, both professionally and personally.

Are there any initiatives or opportunities you’ve been involved in outside of your day-to-day role?

I’ve had the chance to attend industry events, which usually include some travel and are great opportunities to gain wider exposure and network with people in your field. I’ve also been able to enjoy attending awards ceremonies like the APSCo and Recruiter Awards.

On the charitable side, I’ve taken part in volunteering initiatives through Sellick Partnership, including supporting local organisations like Wood Street Mission and Mustard Tree. I also signed up to do the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge as part of our charity fundraising, for two years in a run. This is something I probably wouldn’t have done without the team encouragement. It’s great that we’re supported to get involved in things that make a difference, both inside and outside of work.

How does Sellick Partnership recognise and reward individual contributions?

Recognition is a big part of the culture here and we have a lot of fun and meaningful ways that achievements are celebrated. From wheel spins and the quarterly star initiative to receiving kudos for going above and beyond. There’s also the End of Financial Year Awards (EOFYA), which is a great way to shine a light on individual and team successes.

Beyond that, we have teambuilding days where the company really goes out of its way to show appreciation – we got to do the Crystal Maze experience, which was a fun afternoon! If we have a particularly strong quarter or pass a big audit, we’ll often go out for a team dinner to celebrate. It’s not just about formal recognition, but about those ongoing, genuine gestures that show your efforts are valued.