Ryan Bevens
Ryan Bevens was a software tester for 17 years, both in the US and NZ, before transitioning into recruitment in 2023. He’s worked for a variety of companies along the way, from startups to Fortune 50 companies. Having held both recruitment and hiring manager roles, he has found himself uniquely placed as he is now helping those in positions he has done himself.
In 2025 Ryan won the Rising Star Award at the RCSA Recruitment and Staffing Industry Awards.
Katie France
Katie France is a Principal Consultant at Stellar Recruitment, based in Christchurch. With a strong background in both the UK and New Zealand recruitment markets, Katie is a true specialist in the Manufacturing and Production sector.
Katie brings a wealth of experience from administrative and client-facing roles, which has shaped her exceptional communication skills and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Her professional journey is marked by a commitment to building long-term relationships, mentoring others in the industry, and helping individuals navigate meaningful career transitions.
In 2025, Katie was named Recruitment Professional of the Year at the prestigious RCSA Industry Awards, a recognition of her outstanding customer service, mentorship, and dedication to excellence. Although the other nominees had worked in the industry longer, this is a testament of her natural talents with candidates that see her thrive in our industry.
Brien Keegan
After getting his start in recruitment at the age of 23, Brien quickly moved into leadership positions and has operated across seven global recruitment markets in privately owned companies and in country and regional director roles for a Fortune 500 company. He is also an experienced founder having himself led three start-ups. Brien has almost seven years in advising CEO / founders and advisory boards in shaping the future of their business, outlining the people, culture and leadership challenges that arise through each stage of growth.
Brien won the 2025 Recruitment Leader Award at the RCSA Recruitment and Staffing Industry Awards.
Panel Session
Consultants Corner - 1:45pm - 2:30pm
The Winners Panel: Leadership, Culture and High Performance
Step away from the tech talk and into a conversation that’s all about people. In this relaxed and candid panel, three of New Zealand’s award-winning recruitment leaders, Brien Keegan (Sprout People), Katie France (Stellar Recruitment), and Ryan Bevens, will share what success really looks like when you’re at the top of your game. Hosted by Lee Marshall of Hunter Campbell, the discussion will explore career journeys, leadership influences, mentorship, and the importance of culture in driving high performance. Expect practical takeaways, note-worthy advice, and an open Q&A where you’ll hear directly from the best on what it takes to build a thriving recruitment career.
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