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What does it take to drive growth in a fast-paced industry? For Amy Long, it’s all about relationships, strategy, and a relentless drive for success.
As Head of Operations at Smart Managed Solutions, she’s leading from the front. Building strong client partnerships, developing talent, and setting the foundation for long-term business growth.
From Industry Expertise to Smart Solutions
Before joining Smart Solutions, Amy spent a decade managing and expanding high-volume client accounts in the Industrial sector.
And from the first conversation with our Talent Partner, Samantha Ovenstone, it was clear that Smart’s values aligned perfectly with Amy’s.
When she stepped into her role in November 2023, she knew she had made the right move.
Joining at a pivotal time for the company, she embraced the challenge of driving Smart Solutions’ expansion across Wales and England. This has allowed her to develop in her role quickly and become a key player in the evolution of the Smart strategy.
With a focus on service excellence and structured growth, she has played a key role in shaping the company’s future.
A Dynamic Role with Real Impact
Amy’s role is a balance of strategy, leadership, and hands on problem-solving.
She works closely with clients to strengthen relationships and create tailored workforce solutions.
At the same time, she invests in the development of her team, mentoring Account Managers and ensuring consistency in service delivery across the board.
One of the most rewarding parts of her job is the collaboration.
Being onsite with clients, tackling challenges head on, and creating a culture where both internal teams and external partners feel like part of a shared success story.
Achievements That Drive Change
The labour market has faced significant challenges in recent years.
But Amy thrives in high-pressure environments.
Her focus has been on securing the right kind of growth, partnering with businesses that align with Smart Solutions’ values and vision.
At the start of 2025, that strategy is delivering results.
The company is expanding across the UK, building long-termclient relationships that set the foundation for sustained success.
Looking Ahead: Goals for 2025
Amy is ambitious and competitive, qualities that serve herwell in recruitment.
She’s determined to exceed growth targets and continue driving Smart Solutions forward.
With the company’s strong foundations in place, 2025 is set to be a landmark year.
For Amy, that means scaling operations, deepening client engagement, and ensuring that the team thrives, whether through professional development or creating a culture that makes work both challenging and rewarding.
Recruitment can be hard, you really ride the rollercoaster of emotions.
So, it is important to have fun whilst you do it. Whether that is with your internal teams or putting on your Hi Viz and running engagement campaigns with sites.
Women in Leadership: The Industry is Changing
There has been a stigma around Women in Leadership roles across various industries including recruitment for a long time, too long really. But times are changing.
More opportunities are given to women in leadership roles, to shape business strategies and drive real change.
Amy is proud to be part of that shift.
“For years, leadership opportunities for women in recruitment and other industries felt limited. Now, we’re seeing real change. I’m excited to be part of an industry where talent, not gender, determines success.”
Her leadership isn’t just shaping Smart Solutions, it’s contributing to a wider movement of empowering women in recruitment and beyond.
