Our team. 100% certified human.
Over the years we’ve become experts in getting to know businesses inside out, helping manage their people in the way that suits them. So whether you need us to take over every aspect of your HR, or just want guidance on a particular issue, you’ll be able to call on our dedicated, experienced team whenever you need to.
Hugh Nickerson, Managing Director
With fellow director Rachel, occasional bagpipe player Hugh founded Conundrum in 1994. His deeply analytical approach allows him to always identify the issues that really matter, and those which don’t. Plus, with decades of experience at both multinational organisations and smaller UK companies in seriously specialist industries, he’s highly adept at keeping in tune with the very particular culture of every business he works with.
Rachel Goulding, Finance Director
Born in Kuwait and a veritable globetrotter, Rachel’s early career was spent in London and New York mastering finance, administration and research at Deloitte, The Sutton Company and Palladine Private Equity. Ever since co-founding Conundrum in 1994, she’s used her fiendishly sharp eye for detail to our clients’ advantage – so whether it’s HR admin or keeping track of our own accounts she’s got it covered. (No wonder she’s a mean bridge player.)
Bethan Ellis, Client Services Manager
Bethan is Conundrum’s in-house polymath. Prior to Conundrum, she worked in customer service and project management in the retail and leisure industries – and she was once awarded a medal for her floral design at the Chelsea Flower Show. In fact, she still uses her creative skills to throw pottery, embroider and paint (when her dogs don’t get in the way… which, being spaniels, they generally do). Known for her warm approach, she brings a human touch to mediation and employee relations, providing an impartial ear when it comes to things like grievance meetings and dispute resolution, supporting employers and employees alike. With over ten years of hands-on experience advising on sensitive issues, employee engagement and performance management, as well as all round day to day HR management. Since 2014, she’s been our go-to organiser, chief spinner of plates and all-round creative thinker, helping to deliver what businesses need, exactly when they need it.
Emily Hackett, Paralegal
Emily is Conundrum’s in-house paralegal. Having spent 9 years working in the employment team at a law firm, working closely with HR providers, employers and employees, she decided to make the switch to HR after qualifying as a CILEX Paralegal. An expert in document drafting and project management, she proactively troubleshoots and spots potential problems before they arise, helping employers avoid liability. Her experience dealing with employment tribunals and delicate employee/employer situations has given her the ability to remain calm under pressure and keep up with strict deadlines – she’s been likened to a swan floating along effortlessly on the surface, with the frantic paddling hidden underneath. When she isn’t at her desk, you can find her in the forest with her dogs or making them fancy dress for their next photoshoot.
Erin Moakes, HR and Recruitment Executive
Keen gardener, netball player and cheese aficionado Erin began her career in guest services and operations at some of the UK’s leading leisure attractions. Since joining Conundrum in 2015, she’s used this unique experience to help businesses get to grips with their HR and recruitment – and with a warm, thoughtful and thorough approach, she listens carefully to help solve their problems. (So long as she’s got a slice of Stilton to hand, too).
Hannah Lee
Before joining Conundrum, Hannah built up over 10 years of experience across HR, recruitment and office management, giving her a well-rounded understanding of people, processes and the importance of creating a positive working environment. This diverse background has shaped her proactive approach and her ability to remain approachable and responsive to client needs.
Outside of work, Hannah enjoys spending quality time with friends and family, often hosting dinner parties where she can bring people together over good food. Having recently started yoga, she is embracing a more mindful routine and she also loves spending time near the coast whenever she can.
This combination of professional experience and personal passion allows Hannah to build strong relationships with both colleagues and clients, ensuring she delivers a supportive, thoughtful and personable service.
HR Projects Executive
Hannah is Conundrum’s self-appointed ‘wordy person’; she loves to read (ask for book recommendations at your peril!) and has a degree in Creative Writing. She’s great at turning HR policies and processes into easily digestible language, and can often be found getting excited over a good spreadsheet or PowerPoint. To unwind, Hannah loves being outside – either strolling around a National Trust park with an oat latte, or training for a half marathon.
