Leadership with Tray Durrant

Leadership with Tray Durrant

In this exclusive interview, our Managing Director Tray Durrant shares her insights on what it takes to be an effective leader in today’s evolving workplace. From fostering a culture of trust to leading with authenticity and resilience, Tray offers practical advice and personal reflections on the challenges and rewards of leadership. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an aspiring manager, her perspective provides valuable takeaways for anyone looking to inspire and empower their team.

1. How do you adapt your leadership style to effectively manage diverse teams within the fast-paced recruitment industry?

I like to think I adapt my leadership style by assessing the team's individual and collective needs, experience levels, and cultural backgrounds before determining the best approach – situational leadership. Less experienced consultants need more hands-on guidance and structure, more experienced professionals benefit from being trusted, autonomy and strategic collaboration. I operate with an open mindset and get to understand what drives each team member and manage them in a way that suits their requirements and adjust my leadership style accordingly.

2. What strategies do you use to inspire and motivate your team during challenging hiring cycles or market downturns?

During challenging periods, I focus on our business purpose and values and recognising individual success in different ways. I try and constantly keep communication open and transparent, updating the team on the current market realities while reinforcing our long-term vision and the impact of our work. I like to highlight quick wins and individual contributions to maintain morale. I keep on top of current market trends and try and keep the team curious about our market and dynamic changes to help us up skill as a team and progress their careers. I make it a point to celebrate resilience, not just results, which keeps motivation high even when outcomes are slower and I always remember to thank them.

3. In what ways do you foster leadership development and growth opportunities within your recruitment teams?

I believe in building a leadership pipeline from within. This includes structured mentorship programs, rotating leadership responsibilities in projects, and personalized development plans aligned with individual goals. I also encourage team members to lead initiatives that we are running across the firm, such as key strategic projects that impact the whole business. I am a stickler for regular 1:1s and informal reviews and a constant dialogue around continually improving performance for the individual and ultimately the business. Keeping the team informed and engaged is crucial to our success.

4. How do you stay ahead of industry trends and ensure your leadership approach evolves with the changing recruitment landscape?

I am an avid reader and active learner— I consume articles and podcasts relating to the job market in its entirety. Alongside Bain and Gray I run a small mentoring business for 16- 25 year olds, working with individuals to navigate life post school or University. Reading industry reports, participating in webinars, engaging with thought leaders on platforms, understanding technology and its role in the workplace ensures I serve the two communities I work with, with up to date information and am able to constantly evolve our strategy to stay ahead of the market. Leadership evolution isn’t about reinventing the wheel, but about being responsive, curious, and open to change.