Show Notes
Over 85% of our scaling business called out ‘Talent Acquisition & Retention’ as a critical challenge and key hurdle to growth. Scaling companies find themselves competing with larger organisations and multinationals. So how can SMEs differentiate themselves and win the best people? In this episode of Smooth Scaling, we dive into practical strategies that scaling businesses can use to attract top talent. From company culture, career progression, and employer branding to flexibility, ESOPs, and what candidates are really looking for today, we break down the key ways businesses can differentiate themselves in a competitive hiring market. We’re joined by two fantastic guests: - Brian Keville – Founder & Managing Director of MKO, Ireland’s leading planning and environmental consultancy. An alumni of Platform94, Brian has scaled to over 220 employees sharing first-hand insights on how MKO has successfully grown its team to where it is today. - Michelle Murphy – Director at Collins McNicholas, one of Ireland’s top talent and recruitment firms. Michelle brings expert insights into shifting candidate behaviour, what today’s job seekers really want, and how SMEs can strengthen their hiring approach. If you’re leading a scaling business and looking for real-world hiring advice, this episode is packed with insights to help you win the talent war.
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Season Two of Smooth Scaling opens by setting the scene for the year ahead. In this short episode, host Marie Donnellan outlines what scaling businesses are facing for the year ahead. Drawing on insights from the 2026 Business Outlook Report, she explores key themes including international expansion, cost and margin pressure, lean growth, AI adoption, leadership bandwidth, and talent challenges. Season 2 will feature practical, honest conversations with founders and scaling leaders, many from the SCALE by Platform94 regional community, sharing real experiences and insights from their own scaling journeys. The episode also pays tribute to the late John Purdy, an early supporter of our regional scaling community and a much-loved guest on the podcast, whose spirit of collaboration and generosity continues to shape everything we do. New episodes coming very soon. Thank you for listening, your support truly means a lot.