
What does it actually take to build a specialist recruitment business in today’s market and more importantly, what kind of people does it take to grow one?
We sat down with Stu, Director at Tech and Data People, to talk about the thinking behind TDP. Where the opportunity really sits in tech recruitment, the standards that drive the business and the kind of environment he’s intentionally building.
The market was saturated with generalists but under-served when it came to true specialisation particularly across data, AI and emerging tech. Businesses were investing heavily in these areas, yet struggling to find recruiters who genuinely understood the space.
The opportunity was to build a firm that operates as a strategic partner, not just a supplier. One that understands how data teams are structured, how AI is evolving and what “great” looks like at every level. Not just filling roles but helping shape teams.
Curiosity and credibility.
Anyone can send CVs. The best recruiters understand their market deeply, ask better questions and aren’t afraid to challenge both clients and candidates. They build trust by adding insight, not just activity.
There’s also a commercial edge; you need to treat this like a business, not just a job.
3. What standards do you hold the team to?
High standards, consistently applied:
We’re not here to be the busiest, we’re here to be the most trusted.
We’re building towards being a recognised specialist in data, AI and advanced technology recruitment across Australia. Really known for quality, not scale for the sake of it.
Growth will come from depth, not just headcount:
Ambition attracts ambitious people and that’s exactly the environment we’re creating.
We’re not looking for average recruiters; we’re looking for builders.
People who:
The goal is to build a team of market leaders, not followers.
If you want a job, there are plenty of options.
If you want to build something (your brand, your market, your career), this is the kind of environment where that’s possible.
You’ll be backed, challenged and given the space to grow. But with that comes expectation. This isn’t for everyone, and that’s the point.
Get in touch with Stuart Garland - stuart@techanddatapeople.com.au or 0434 984 195



