Oreoluwa Adedokun is a trailblazer in the fast-paced world of talent acquisition, leveraging his expertise and global perspective as the Manager of Talent Acquisition EMEA at Bentley Systems, Inc. His remarkable journey from Nigeria to the Netherlands, Europe, and the Middle East is truly inspiring.

Oreoluwa has a diverse educational background, including a Bachelor’s degree in Guidance Counseling Psychology, an MBA in International Business Administration from the United States, and a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from the Netherlands. This unique blend of psychology and business education has exceptionally equipped him to navigate the intricacies of talent acquisition.

Oreoluwa’s extensive travel experience spans countries such as the USA, Netherlands, UK, France, Spain, UAE, Ghana, Benin, Italy, Greece, Belgium, and many more. This rich tapestry of international exposure has broadened his horizons and greatly enhanced his ability to connect with professionals from diverse backgrounds.

In an interview with Eventible, Oreoluwa speaks about his aspirations and goals with respect to talent acquisition at Bentley Systems, his experience at Talent Management Reloaded 2023, and much more! Read along to know more!

1. What are your aspirations and goals for talent acquisition at Bentley Systems? 

My aspirations and goals for talent acquisition in Bentley Systems are:

• Attracting Top Talent: To consistently attract and hire top-tier talent that aligns with Bentley Systems’ values, culture, and strategic objectives.
• To promote diversity and inclusion in our hiring processes, ensuring that we have a workforce that reflects a broad range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.
• Streamlining and optimizing the recruitment process to reduce time-to-fill positions while maintaining a high level of candidate quality.
• Building and strengthening the organization’s employer brand to make it a preferred destination for talent, both locally and globally.
• Leveraging data and analytics to make informed recruitment strategy decisions allows us to improve our processes continually.
• Ensuring that all candidates have a positive and respectful experience throughout the hiring process, regardless of whether they are ultimately selected.
• Aligning talent acquisition efforts closely with the organization’s business goals and objectives to ensure that our workforce supports our growth and innovation.

2. How does your role in talent acquisition contribute to Bentley Systems’ mission and goals in sustaining and advancing global infrastructure?

As a talent acquisition professional at Bentley Systems, my role is vital in contributing to the company’s mission and goals of sustaining and advancing global infrastructure in several key ways like Identifying, attracting, and hiring top talents in fields such as Civil engineering, infrastructure design, and software development. I ensure that Bentley Systems has the human capital required to develop cutting-edge infrastructure solutions.

Bentley Systems thrives on innovation to develop advanced infrastructure software and solutions. Through effective talent acquisition, I help bring in creative and forward-thinking individuals who contribute to developing innovative technologies that enhance global infrastructure.

My role also involves implementing best practices in talent acquisition, ensuring that Bentley Systems consistently improves its recruitment processes and stays competitive in the market. In summary, my role in talent acquisition directly supports Bentley Systems’ mission and goals by ensuring that the company has the skilled and diverse workforce necessary to sustain and advance global infrastructure. This involves attracting top talent, fostering innovation, and aligning our recruitment efforts with the company’s sustainability and customer satisfaction commitment.

3. How do you predict the company’s recruitment efforts evolving in the future?

Predicting the evolution of a company’s recruitment efforts involves considering industry trends, technological advancements, changing candidate expectations, and the organization’s strategic goals. Here are some potential directions in which Bentley Systems’ recruitment efforts may evolve in the future:

• Increased Emphasis on Diversity and Inclusion: As diversity and inclusion become more integral to business success, Bentley Systems may place greater importance on recruiting a diverse workforce to foster innovation and better serve a global client base.

• Data-Driven Recruitment: The use of data analytics and artificial intelligence in recruitment is likely to grow. Predictive analytics can help identify the best sources for talent, assess candidate fit, and optimize the hiring process for efficiency and effectiveness.

• Enhanced Candidate Experience: Companies are investing in technology to improve the candidate experience. This may involve personalized communication, streamlined application processes, and quicker candidate feedback.

• Home-Based, Office-Based, and Hybrid Work: The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the acceptance of remote work. Bentley Systems may adapt its recruitment strategies to tap into talent pools beyond its physical locations, enabling a more geographically diverse workforce.

• Employer Branding: Strengthening the company’s employer brand will continue to be crucial. Potential candidates often research a company’s reputation and culture before applying so a positive employer brand can attract top talent.

4. As a Talent Management Reloaded 2023 speaker, can you share the event’s vibe?

This was my inaugural experience at Talent Management Reloaded, and I must say it was truly remarkable. The event provided a fantastic platform for connecting with exceptional individuals in the talent management field, and I gleaned a wealth of knowledge from the various sessions. Networking opportunities were abundant, allowing me to explore many innovations and advancements within the realm of Talent Management.

5.  How has talent management and recruitment evolved in the last decade?

Over the last decade, talent management and recruitment have evolved significantly due to technological advancements, changes in candidate expectations, shifting demographics, and evolving business needs. Here are some key ways in which these areas have evolved:

• Digital Transformation: Adopting digital tools and platforms has transformed the recruitment process. Online job boards, applicant tracking systems, and AI-powered recruitment software have become commonplace, streamlining sourcing, screening, and selection processes.

• Data Analytics: Talent management and recruitment have become more data-driven. Companies use analytics to assess the effectiveness of recruitment strategies, predict candidate success, and make informed decisions about hiring.

• Remote Work: The rise of remote work, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has broadened the talent pool. Companies are more open to hiring remote or distributed teams, leading to increased flexibility in recruitment.

• Automation and AI: Automation and artificial intelligence are used for tasks like resume screening, chatbots for candidate engagement, and predictive analytics for identifying top candidates.

• Employee Retention: Retaining top talent is as important as recruitment. Talent management strategies include career development, mentoring, and creating a positive work environment to keep employees engaged and committed.

• Globalization: Talent management and recruitment have become more global. Companies source talent worldwide, leading to greater team diversity and an increased need for cross-cultural management skills.

6.  What does Bentley Systems practice in talent acquisition strategies, and what type of candidates do you seek to bring into the organization?

Bentley Systems practices some talent acquisition strategies like proactive sourcing; given the nature of infrastructure projects that span across the globe, Bentley Systems seeks candidates with a global mindset who are willing to work on international projects. 

We strongly emphasize technical expertise, particularly in areas such as computer-aided design (CAD), Building Information Modeling (BIM), geospatial technology, and software development. Candidates proficient in relevant software tools and programming languages are highly sought after. Bentley also sought after candidates with innovation and creativity mindset, diversity and inclusion, adaptability, and passion for infrastructure. 

7. When considering candidates joining the Bentley Systems team, can you describe the qualities or attributes you value most?

While the specific qualities or attributes valued in candidates at Bentley Systems may vary depending on the role and department, the company tends to value some general qualities and attributes when considering candidates to join their team. These qualities are aligned with Bentley Systems’ mission and goals, which focus on advancing global infrastructure and providing innovative solutions. Here are some of the qualities and attributes that Bentley Systems typically values:

• Technical Proficiency: Bentley Systems values candidates with strong technical skills and expertise in areas relevant to their roles, such as software development, civil engineering, geospatial technology, or infrastructure design.

• Innovation:  The company seeks candidates who are innovative thinkers, capable of contributing fresh ideas, creative solutions, and new perspectives to advance infrastructure technology and solve complex challenges.

• Customer Focus: Given that Bentley Systems develops solutions for infrastructure professionals, candidates with a customer-centric mindset and a deep understanding of industry challenges are highly regarded.

• Environmental and Sustainability Awareness: Given the increasing focus on sustainable infrastructure, candidates with expertise in environmental engineering, sustainability practices, and green technologies may find opportunities at Bentley Systems.

• Collaboration: Effective teamwork and collaboration are essential, as many projects involve cross-functional teams. Candidates who can work well with others and contribute positively to team dynamics are sought after.

• Ethical and Responsible Behavior: Bentley Systems strongly emphasizes ethical conduct and responsible business practices. Candidates who demonstrate integrity and ethical decision-making are highly regarded.

8. How does the company promote professional growth and development for its employees?

Bentley Systems promotes employee professional growth and development through various initiatives and programs designed to enhance their skills, knowledge, and career opportunities. 

Bentley Systems offers a range of training and development programs to help employees build and enhance their skills. These programs may include technical training, leadership development, and soft skills training.

Employees can access many learning resources, including online courses, webinars, and educational materials, to stay updated on industry trends and technologies.

The company may provide mentorship and coaching opportunities, allowing employees to learn from experienced colleagues and receive guidance in their career development.

Bentley Systems encourages employees to create and follow career development plans. This includes setting career goals, identifying areas for improvement, and outlining steps to achieve those goals.

The company promotes internal mobility, allowing employees to explore different organizational roles and departments. This enables career growth and encourages the retention of talent.

Bentley Systems may offer leadership development programs for employees interested in leadership roles to prepare them for greater organizational responsibilities.

Recognizing and rewarding outstanding performance and contributions is important to professional growth. Bentley Systems acknowledges and celebrates employee achievements.

9. Is there any additional advice you’d like to share with professionals interested in the field of talent acquisition and management?

Certainly! If you’re interested in a career in talent acquisition and management, here are some additional pieces of advice to help you succeed in this field:

• Keep abreast with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best talent acquisition and management practices. The field continually evolves, and staying informed will help you remain competitive.

• Build a Strong Network: Networking is invaluable in this field. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with colleagues, mentors, and peers in the HR and talent management community.
• Develop Soft Skills: While technical skills are crucial, consider the importance of soft skills. Effective communication, empathy, negotiation, and relationship-building skills are essential for success in talent management.
• Data-Driven Decision-Making: Familiarize yourself with data analytics and metrics. Measuring the effectiveness of your recruitment strategies and making data-driven decisions will set you apart.
• Continuous Learning: Invest in your own professional development. Pursue relevant certifications, attend workshops, and seek ongoing learning and skill development opportunities.
• Adapt to Change: The world of work is changing rapidly, and talent managers must adapt. Be open to new working methods, such as remote and flexible arrangements.
• Embrace Technology: Stay updated on HR tech tools and systems. Leveraging technology can streamline processes and enhance the candidate experience.

10. How do you find Eventible as an event review platform?

The platform was user-friendly, and it was very helpful.