Former pupils Prash Bhandari (Holman 1986-91) from Microsoft and Elliott Shepherd (Robinson 2005-09) from Amazon were joined by Professor Adrienne Milner from Brunel University to shed light on how the tech industry recruits and retains top talent.
These industry leaders explained that while CVs account for 50% of the recruitment process, the other half is determined by cultural fit. Tech companies seek individuals who think big, strive for efficiency, share ideas, and demonstrate a bias for action – key traits that drive innovation.
Rewarding a Culture of Innovation
Unlike many other sectors, tech companies place significant emphasis on cultural contribution. Prash Bhandari highlighted that at Microsoft, 25% of an employee’s pay is based on their role in fostering collaboration and idea-sharing. Similarly, Professor Milner shared her experience in a start-up, where her boss constantly encouraged her to refine her work, moving it from a “7 to an 8” in quality. This embodies the start-up mindset: taking the “dirt tracks rather than the highways” to explore new perspectives and experiences on the way.
Seizing the AI Frontier
All three guests encouraged the students to build something, show deep interest, learn and be curious. When pupils inquired about potential competition from the emerging Chinese AI model, Deep Seek, the speakers remained unfazed. They reassured pupils that this is just one of many AI models pushing boundaries. With AI yet to be fully monetised and integrated into society, the future remains open. The challenge was clear: Epsom pupils should seize the opportunity to shape the next wave of innovation.
A huge thank you to Prash Bhandari, Elliott Shepherd, and Professor Adrienne Milner for an inspiring and thought-provoking evening.
