SALM TEAM 
Leadership in recruitment is not just about placing professionals- it’s about shaping industries, fostering growth, and building meaningful connections. At the helm of Robert Walters Africa, Samantha-Jane Gravett brings a unique blend of expertise, vision, and a deep understanding of the continent’s dynamic talent landscape.
With a passion for bridging potential and opportunity, Samantha-Jane has cultivated a career that goes beyond traditional recruitment. Her leadership philosophy is grounded in collaboration, adaptability, and purpose-driven strategy, ensuring that Robert Walters Africa not only connects professionals with roles but also plays a pivotal role in transforming workplaces.
From navigating the complexities of Africa’s evolving job market to driving innovation in global talent solutions, Samantha-Jane is committed to making a lasting impact. Her perspective on leadership, industry trends, and the future of recruitment offers valuable insights into how businesses and professionals can thrive in today’s rapidly changing world.
Join us as we explore her journey, her vision for Robert Walters Africa, and the strategies that continue to shape success across industries.
Leadership & Vision
What inspired you to pursue a career in recruitment, and what led you to Robert Walters Africa?
You don’t study recruitment, you more fall into it and either you enjoy it or you don’t. It is also wonderful to see people’s careers evolve…….
What inspired me to pursue a career in recruitment was the opportunity to work at the intersection of people and potential. I’ve always been passionate about helping others grow, and recruitment gave me a platform to do that in a tangible, impactful way — connecting individuals with opportunities that can transform their careers and lives.
What led me to Robert Walters Africa was the company’s strong reputation for professionalism, integrity, and global reach — but also its deep commitment to local markets. I was drawn to the idea of being part of a business that not only understands Africa’s unique talent landscape but is also actively shaping it.
Joining Robert Walters felt like the perfect alignment of purpose and platform — a place where I could lead with heart, drive meaningful change, and contribute to building a stronger, more connected workforce across the continent
How would you describe your leadership style, and how has it evolved over your career?
I’d describe my leadership style as adaptive, collaborative, and purpose-driven. Early in my career, I leaned heavily on structure and precision — I wanted everything to be perfect and tightly managed. But over time, I’ve learned that real leadership is about trust, empowerment, and listening.I now focus on creating environments where people feel safe to contribute, challenge ideas, and grow. I’ve become more comfortable with ambiguity and more focused on outcomes than processes. I believe in setting a clear vision, aligning the team around shared goals, and then giving people the autonomy to deliver in their own way.
Ultimately, my leadership has evolved from being directive to being more facilitative — from managing tasks to inspiring people. And I’m still learning every day.
What is your vision for Robert Walters Africa, and how do you see the company shaping the future of recruitment in the region?
My vision for Robert Walters Africa is to be the most trusted and forward-thinking recruitment partner on the continent — one that not only connects talent with opportunity but also helps shape the future of work in Africa.
We’re in a region full of potential, innovation, and resilience. I see our role as more than just filling roles — it’s about building careers, supporting businesses to scale sustainably, and contributing to the broader economic development of the region.
We’re investing in technology, data insights, and local expertise to ensure we stay ahead of the curve. But more importantly, we’re committed to human connection — understanding the unique needs of each market, each client, and each candidate.
In the future, I see Robert Walters Africa leading the way in redefining recruitment — making it more inclusive, more agile, and more impactful.
Industry Expertise & Market Insights
What makes Africa such a dynamic market for recruitment, and how does Robert Walters Africa navigate its unique challenges and opportunities?
Africa’s got this incredible energy—young, tech-savvy talent, fast-growing economies, and a real hunger for innovation. But it’s not without its complexities. At Robert Walters Africa, we really lean into local knowledge while tapping into our global reach. It’s about understanding the nuances and connecting the right people with the right opportunities.
How has the recruitment landscape changed over the years, and what trends should businesses and job seekers be paying attention to?
Remote work has gone from a perk to a norm, digital skills are in high demand, and companies are focusing more on potential than just experience. For job seekers, it’s all about adaptability and continuous learning. And for businesses? Embrace flexibility and invest in your people.
What industries see as the highest demand for talent right now, and how is Robert Walters Africa meeting these needs?
Tech is booming, finance is evolving, and green energy is gaining serious traction. We’re seeing a real push for specialists in these areas. At Robert Walters, we’re staying ahead by building strong talent networks and really understanding what both clients and candidates need.
Offshoring & Global Talent Solutions
South Africa has established itself as a top offshoring destination. What makes it such an attractive option for international companies?
It’s a bit of a hidden gem, honestly. You’ve got a highly educated, English-speaking workforce, great infrastructure, and time zones that align well with Europe and the UK. Plus, the cost-efficiency is a big win for global companies.
How does offshoring recruitment functions to South Africa benefit businesses, and what should companies consider when making this transition?
It’s a smart move—lower costs, access to great talent, and improved scalability. But it’s not just plug-and-play. Companies need to think about cultural fit, data protection, and having the right local partners to guide them through the process.
What role does Robert Walters Africa play in helping global companies find talent in South Africa?
We’re kind of like matchmakers with a strategy. We help international companies navigate the local market, find top-tier professionals, and build teams that really perform. It’s not just about filling roles—it’s about long-term success.
People & Culture
What drives you in your role at Robert Walters Africa, and what keeps you motivated?
What drives me in my role at Robert Walters Africa is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact — not just on businesses, but on people’s lives. Every placement we make has the potential to change someone’s career trajectory, support a family, or help a company grow. That sense of purpose is incredibly motivating.
I’m also deeply inspired by the people I work with — our team is passionate, resilient, and committed to excellence. We’re building something special in Africa, and being part of that journey keeps me energized.
What keeps me going is the constant evolution of the industry. Recruitment is no longer just about matching CVs to job specs — it’s about understanding people, anticipating market shifts, and helping organizations build cultures that attract and retain top talent. That challenge — and the chance to lead through it — is what excites me every day.
How do you foster a strong workplace culture, and what values do you prioritise in leadership?
Fostering a strong workplace culture starts with clarity, consistency, and care. For me, it’s about creating an environment where people feel seen, heard, and valued — where they’re empowered to bring their full selves to work and do their best.
I believe culture is built in the everyday moments — how we communicate, how we support each other, how we celebrate wins and learn from setbacks. It’s not just about perks or policies; it’s about purpose and people.
In terms of leadership values, I prioritise integrity, empathy, and accountability. I lead with transparency, I listen actively, and I hold myself and others to high standards — not just in what we achieve, but in how we achieve it.
Ultimately, I want to build a culture that inspires trust, encourages growth, and reflects the diverse, dynamic spirit of Africa
What advice would you give to professionals looking to grow their careers in recruitment?
I’d say—stay curious and stay human. Recruitment is evolving fast, but at its core, it’s still about people. Learn the tech, yes, but also build real relationships, understand your market deeply, and never stop asking questions. The best recruiters are the ones who listen more than they talk.
Future of Recruitment
What excites you most about the future of recruitment, both in Africa and globally?
Honestly? The possibilities. Africa is bursting with untapped talent and innovation, and globally, we’re seeing a shift toward more inclusive, flexible, and skills-based hiring. It’s no longer just about filling roles—it’s about shaping the future of work. That’s exciting.
How is technology shaping the recruitment industry, and what innovations do you think will have the biggest impact?
Tech is a game-changer. AI is helping us screen smarter, automation is speeding up processes, and data is giving us real insights into what works. But the real magic happens when tech supports—not replaces—the human touch. I think predictive analytics and AI-driven matching will be huge in the next few years.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to businesses looking to build strong, high-performing teams?
Don’t just hire for skills—hire for potential and culture fit. The best teams aren’t just technically strong; they’re aligned in values and vision. Invest in onboarding, create space for growth, and listen to your people. That’s how you build something that lasts.
Dj Chilu 
Diana Kinyanjui 
