A Manchester recruitment consultancy is the latest company to pledge support to StateTalking.

Sellick Partnership has not only offered sponsorship, but also promised to get hands on with StateTalking’s mission of bringing relatable speakers into state schools.

No sooner were they signed up, Managing Director and Founder, Jo Sellick, and the company’s Head of Talent Acquisition & Wellbeing, Simon Briffa, paid a visit to St Matthew’s RC High School in Moston.

The pair spoke to a group of 30 students from years 10 and 11 about the key skills young people need to succeed in their future careers. They discussed the importance of both CV preparation and interview skills.

Jo, who launched his company in 2002 at the age of 32, also spoke about his entrepreneurial journey and how his self-employed dad was his role model.

Jo said: “Speaking to the students was a pretty daunting experience -14-16 year olds are definitely not my usual audience. But it was really enjoyable and both myself and Simon would like to speak to more school groups in the future.

“Sellick Partnership is committed to supporting StateTalking with its vital work, getting Manchester students excited about their future careers, opening eyes and raising aspirations”.

Head, Mrs Helen Murden at St Matthews RC High School, said: “Jo and Simon gave a fascinating talk about careers in recruitment, talking about their own personal journeys as well as routes that current students might take to get into the industry.

“The students really appreciated them taking the time to come and speak to us and I am sure there will now be some amongst their number considering a career in recruitment.”

Fran Kennedy, founder of StateTalking, said: “It is very exciting to have Sellick Partnership on board. With their support, we will be able to expand the number of inspirational careers talks we deliver in state schools as well as picking up the pace on our work helping schools to develop alumni networks.”

National professional services recruitment specialist Sellick Partnership was founded 20 years ago by Jo Sellick. In 2022, the company was recognised as one of the 100 best workplaces in the UK by Great Place to Work® UK for the seventh time. It employs over 100 members of staff in seven UK locations, including Manchester city centre.