Springfield Regional Jobs Committee Connects Job Seekers with Employment Opportunities

The Springfield Regional Jobs Committee, supported by funding from the Queensland Government, is driving local workforce development through initiatives that connect job seekers with employment opportunities. At the forefront of these efforts is the Launch to Employment event, incorporating the Multicultural Jobs Forum, which has already seen several success stories, including the journey of job seeker Alex B.

CG Recruitment, an Australian company with over 30 years of experience providing staffing solutions across manufacturing, logistics, events, technology, and construction, was a key participant at the forum. Known for their dynamic approach to recruitment and commitment to inclusive hiring practices, CG Recruitment met Alex B. at the event and quickly recognised his potential.

Lennard Sigrist, Commercial Manager at CG Recruitment, highlighted the company’s dedication to empowering individuals at all stages of their careers, including those with limited work experience, commenting, “Our strategic partnerships with community jobseeker networks allow us to impact the community and facilitate inclusive hiring positively.”

Alex’s determination stood out at the job forum, prompting CG Recruitment to fast-track his interview process. Within weeks, Alex was placed as a casual worker with Comgroup Supplies, one of Australasia’s leading food manufacturers specialising in meat and plant-based products. Alex quickly advanced from a process worker to a full-time machine operator, demonstrating his strong work ethic and commitment.

Comgroup Supplies’ HR Manager, Terry McManus, praised Alex’s dedication, noting, “Alex starts his shift at 4 am every day and has not missed a shift since he began in May. He has quickly become a respected team member, and we see great potential in him.” McManus also commended the Launch to Employment event for providing valuable connections between young job seekers and employers.

Reflecting on his experience, Alex expressed gratitude for the opportunities afforded by the Launch to Employment event. “Meeting respected employers at the forum was a great opportunity,” said Alex, who moved to Australia from Ethiopia in 2015 with his family. “This event has helped me secure regular work that supports my livelihood.” He also praised CG Recruitment’s support and the Comgroup Supplies team.

Blossom Dudley, a CG Recruitment consultant involved in Alex’s placement, emphasised the importance of recognising and nurturing hidden talents. “Every resume we review is like discovering a diamond in the rough individuals whose potential can shine with the right opportunities and support,” said Dudley.

The success of the Launch to Employment event highlights the value of inclusive hiring practices and community-driven employment initiatives. Springfield Regional Jobs Committee Project Manager Liz Conroy reported that 85% of candidates who attended the event’s pre-employment counselling and interview sessions engaged in further discussions with employers or secured jobs in the weeks following. “Initiatives like this bridge employment gaps and foster diverse talent pipelines, benefiting job seekers and employers,” Conroy stated.

The event’s success would not have been possible without the collaboration and support of organisations such as Link and Launch, the Department of Multicultural Affairs Queensland, and the Department of Treaty, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Communities and the Arts.

The Springfield Regional Jobs Committee also extends its thanks to the business community and employers who participated in the April 2024 event, including:

Ipswich City Council, Alara QLD Limited, Challenge Employment and Training, CG Recruitment, Comgroup Supplies, ETC, MAS National, Programmed, Primo, Probe CX, Surveying Careers and VAE Group

Through these partnerships, the Springfield Regional Jobs Committee continues to meaningfully impact local workforce development, empowering job seekers and supporting business growth in Greater Springfield.