Pioneer Profile: Andrew Sheppard

It’s time that we recognise the people behind the evolving world of work. Our working lives have shifted to being more inclusive, more people-centric, more flexible, and just plain better for both employees and companies. 

These changes didn’t just happen: they were put into place and upheld by individuals and teams working to create a better working future for everyone. 

So we’re finally putting the spotlight on the people who make great companies great: the people-people.  

People-people are crucial to the success of every company. They find you the talent that drives you forwards, and they’ve taken on an increasingly strategic role in the past few years – often taking on responsibility for mental health, diversity and inclusion, culture, EVPs, Employer Branding and team happiness. 

Read more about the Pioneers List and go behind the scenes to understand how and why we’ve selected our Pioneers.

Tell us a little bit about your career history, and how you got to where you are now. What were the key milestones?

My career background has been in retail sales, tech recruitment and tech sales in recruitment start-ups. I began working with Vodafone UK (my first sales job) whilst studying Sports at Ulster University. From several promotions from part-time sales advisor to store management, I was responsible for sales leadership in several teams. I worked in Belfast for Vodafone, transferring to London and working at the Vodafone UK Camden store. Working in London provided me the opportunity to work with people from so many different backgrounds and cultures and embrace a new city. It was a huge learning experience living in London. 

On my return to Belfast, I then ventured into tech recruitment and tech sales. These tech start-ups all helped employers to take steps with both advocating and practising improved DEI measures in the workplace. 

When did you become interested in the future of work?

What is the most impactful change that you’ve implemented?

I recently started my own business. I help small business owners with all things sales and business growth. Many people start their own small business because they need flexibility, and cannot find it through employment. People start businesses yet do not have the skills to sell and promote what they do. This is where I come in - I help with this and teach small business owners how to sell. I provide 1:1 consultancy and also recently started an online community, ensuring there’s affordable options for all to get the help they need, so they can continue to have the flex working they need. 

What’s the biggest challenge of being in your role/industry right now?

What do you think the next big trend is in working culture?

I feel more employees will continue to venture into the world of self-employment because too many are fed up with the traditional and rigid ways of working that many employers continue to operate in. More companies need to adapt to flexible & results based environments, and step away from “hours worked” rigid based models. As a working parent and unpaid carer to my disabled partner, I don’t track the hours worked because every week and day is different - I track the outputs and the impact made.