An Introduction to Ishitha Kashim

In October we welcomed Ishitha Kashim to our thriving Architecture division as a Senior Recruitment Consultant and she has hit the ground running. Here we take some time to get her thoughts on the Architecture sector, as well as to get to know her better.

Tell us a little bit about yourself
After completing my BA and MA in Interior Architecture and Design, I embarked on a career as an Interior Designer with a prestigious London-based studio. Specialising in high-end luxury designs, I was working on super-prime mansions for celebrities, including footballers and members of the Royal Family. However, as all things changed in both my professional and personal life, I had to embark on a new path to ensure I could continue to progress but also remain involved in a space that I love. This realisation led me to transition into the role of a Recruitment Consultant, specialising in the engineering division. Focusing on Building Services, Architecture, and Interior Design, I successfully established a 360 desk, becoming the sole consultant generating revenue for the
Architecture and Interiors sector. Leveraging my extensive background in Interior Architecture and Design, I developed a keen understanding of clients' needs, drawing from my own experiences navigating interview stages and familiarity with various styles and software. 
Having recently relocated to Newcastle, my priority was to align myself with a company emphasizing Construction and Architecture. I wanted to also join a team who shared a similar background or was actively recruiting within the Architecture industry - hence my decision to join Linear.

What does your role at Linear involve?
At Linear, I serve as a 360 Consultant within the Architecture division, working alongside Elliot (Birtwistle) and extending my reach across the southern region. My focus is on growing and strengthening both existing and new relationships with clients and candidates down South. 

How do you think the Architecture sector is performing and how do you see it going in the next couple of years?
The current state of the Architecture sector appears stable, with recruitment playing a significant role. The impact of Brexit has been substantial, leading many RIBA-qualified Architects to relocate abroad, creating a challenging market in the UK. Despite these challenges, I anticipate a thriving market. There's a clear demand, and I anticipate a busy period ahead.

What do you find the most challenging aspect of your role at Linear?
Adjusting to the Newcastle accent might pose an interesting challenge! All jokes aside, rebuilding a desk and navigating a new database can be demanding, as well as establishing a rapport with a new set of clients.

What three words would you use to describe Linear Recruitment?
Supportive, exciting and friendly.

What do you like most about Linear?
The support from everyone has been exceptional. Moving from down south to Newcastle Geoff (Taylor) and Elliot have been super helpful in guiding me every step of the way. From day one, Elliot provided PSLs for me to work on, allowing me to seamlessly dive into my new role. Thanks to his help, I successfully placed someone within my first 6 weeks at Linear.

Any advice to candidates looking to make their next career move?
It's essential to assess your comfort level and the potential for growth in your current position. If you find that there's no more room for progression or the role is no longer challenging, it might be the right time to consider making a move. I recommend keeping an eye out for all new opportunities and having interviews at companies that you may not always consider, it may just be the job you’ve been looking for in the end.

What do you like to do outside of work?
Beyond my professional life, I have a passion for travel and discovering new places, especially trying out new food spots. In 2023 I was thankful to have visited some new places: Fethiye (Turkey), Dubai, Lanzarote, Brussels and Edinburgh. Traveling is a huge motivation for excelling in my job!

If you were stuck on an island what three things would you bring?
My prescripted sunglasses, a survival guide and a solar powered water proof device!

You can contact Ishitha at our Newcastle office, or email ishitha.kashim@linearrecruitment.co.uk
07718 483 220