Webinar Recap: Navigating Recruitment in the AI Age with PPMA

Starfish Search recently partnered with the Public Services People Managers Association (PPMA) to deliver a timely and thought-provoking webinar: “Navigating Recruitment in the AI Age.” Our own Sunita Patel was joined by Jason Makepeace from GovCats to explore how artificial intelligence is already reshaping recruitment, leadership, and workforce planning across the public sector. If you missed the session, the full webinar is available to watch here.

Top Insights & Key Takeaways

1. AI’s Practical Impact vs. Overhyped Myths

AI is beginning to bring practical value to recruitment—but not without caveats. The panel highlighted how many AI tools in use today can help streamline recruitment processes, yet the broader narrative is often clouded by hype. It’s crucial to separate inflated promises from the actual, grounded use cases where AI is delivering results. As the discussion made clear, success with AI relies not only on the tools themselves but also on the quality of the underlying data, the ethical framework they operate within, and the culture of the organisations adopting them.

2. Targeted Use Cases for AI

There are several specific areas where AI is showing clear benefits in recruitment. Tools that automate CV screening are proving effective in high-volume situations, allowing teams to identify relevant candidates more quickly. Similarly, talent-matching algorithms are improving sourcing by better aligning candidate skills with role requirements. Looking ahead, the panel discussed the potential of AI to drive blind screening processes that reduce unconscious bias and to support candidate engagement through early-stage chatbot interactions, though these applications still require careful development and oversight.

3. Risks Around Bias and Fairness

One of the central concerns surrounding AI in recruitment is the risk of embedding or amplifying existing biases. While these technologies offer efficiency, they can also replicate systemic inequities if not properly managed. The panel stressed the importance of maintaining human oversight throughout the recruitment process. AI should assist, not replace, the judgement of skilled recruiters who are able to sense-check outcomes, interrogate recommendations, and ensure fairness remains a constant priority.

4. AI Transparency and Trust

Trust in AI begins with transparency. Candidates and hiring managers alike need to understand how AI is being used in decision-making and be assured that it is operating within ethical boundaries. The speakers emphasised the importance of communicating clearly about AI’s role in recruitment processes. Organisations must be able to demonstrate how decisions are made and maintain auditable trails to support accountability and build confidence among stakeholders.

5. Upskilling Recruitment Teams

Adopting AI tools successfully requires recruitment teams to build new skills and knowledge. Data literacy is becoming a core competency, allowing recruiters to critically assess AI outputs and understand their limitations. The panel discussed how legal and ethical awareness must also be part of ongoing team development. Training and practical frameworks are essential to support responsible use and to embed AI in a way that enhances rather than undermines the quality of recruitment.

6. Strategic and Incremental Adoption

Rather than implementing AI at scale all at once, the speakers recommended a phased approach. Organisations should begin with small-scale pilots, test real use cases, and scale up gradually based on what works. AI is most valuable when integrated into broader improvements in recruitment strategy and process design. It should not be viewed as a plug-and-play solution, but as one part of a more thoughtful and sustainable transformation effort.

7. Leadership and Cultural Readiness

AI adoption is not simply a technical challenge—it’s a leadership and cultural one. Without buy-in from senior leaders, AI strategies will lack clarity and impact. The panel underlined that leadership must set the tone, provide clear governance, and ensure AI use aligns with organisational values. Only when there is shared understanding and confidence in the technology can AI be used in ways that are ethical, effective, and empowering.

Why This Matters for Starfish Clients & Candidates

At Starfish Search, we are committed to embracing innovation that supports better outcomes for our clients and candidates. This webinar reinforces our belief that the future of recruitment is both digital and human. AI has the power to increase efficiency and improve decision-making, but only when applied thoughtfully and transparently. We will continue to integrate smart tools into our practice where they add value—always with the oversight of experienced consultants who understand the importance of trust, fairness, and human judgement.

Next Steps & Resources

To watch the full webinar, click here. Stay informed about future webinars and insights by visiting the News & Events section of starfishsearch.com and following us on LinkedIn.

If you’re exploring how AI might support your recruitment strategy, our team would be happy to advise. Contact us to start the conversation about future-ready talent solutions.