Looking Ahead: Evolving the Associate Programme
At Platform Smart, the Associate Programme isn’t just about matching people to work - it’s about creating a connected, engaged community.
We’re focused on ensuring associates feel supported, valued, and able to contribute beyond day-to-day assignments.
By refining how we work, having a more robust entry criteria, and fostering collaboration, we aim to make the programme more meaningful for everyone involved - associates and clients alike.
Read Lindsay Hill’s full update below to see how the programme is evolving this year and beyond.
This year has been one of the most challenging I can remember. With economic and political uncertainty affecting client spend, there were inevitably fewer opportunities for associates, and at times it felt like we spent the majority of our time following up on Associate introductions, something which is inevitable in a quieter market.
But things are beginning to shift. Over the past few months we’ve started to see increased client activity which is resulting in a stronger pipeline of work coming through, and there’s a real sense of momentum returning. What’s especially striking is the type of demand we’re seeing. Many conversations I’ve had with clients and associates lately points to the same themes: AI and cyber security. These aren’t buzzwords or passing fads, they are fast becoming central to client strategies, and they’re reshaping the skills and expertise that will be most valued going forward.
That’s why I believe more strongly than ever that the Associate Programme must remain focused on quality and exclusivity. We are not, and never will be, a recruitment agency. This isn’t about filling gaps on a spreadsheet or adding names to a database. It’s about curating a community of independent professionals who are trusted, highly skilled, and aligned to what clients really need.
Reflecting on the Past Year
While the market has been challenging, we’ve not stood still. In fact, we’ve taken the opportunity to strengthen our foundations. Our resourcing and compliance functions, in particular, have carried a heavy load this year, and I’m proud of the way the team has responded.
We’ve implemented a series of internal improvements - from updated client documentation to ensure full compliance when mobilising associates, to enhanced vetting processes and new sign-off procedures that align with IR35 requirements. These aren’t glamorous changes, but they matter. They give our clients confidence and provide a better experience for our associates.
We’ve also formalised our ways of working by creating dedicated ‘mini pods’ on client accounts. These bring together our Managing Consultants, Resourcing, Compliance, and PMO expertise to deliver a more joined up and high-quality service. The addition of Tracy to the team has strengthened this approach even further, giving us more capacity to support multiple accounts.
And then there’s the human side. We’ve worked hard to stay connected with our associates, through regular contact, networking events, and face-to-face conversations; I know there’s still more to do here, but I’ve been encouraged by how these interactions have helped associates feel more valued, supported, and connected to the wider Platform Smart community.
Strengthening and Streamlining the Programme
Looking ahead, one of our focus areas is on refining the programme to keep it both high-quality and exclusive. Entry will remain referral-only, limited to individuals who are highly regarded and personally known by existing associates. To make this process clearer and fairer, we’re introducing specific referral criteria and a competency checklist built around Platform Smart’s values and technical standards.
Just as importantly, we need to be clear about the boundaries of entry. This is not an open talent pool. It’s not for anyone simply looking for their next contract. It’s a curated community of professionals who embody the very best of what Platform Smart stands for. By setting those expectations openly, we can protect the value of the programme for those who are part of it.
We’ll also be reviewing current membership to identify those who are inactive or disengaged, through this process we will be looking to re-engage with everyone in a bid to increase the sense of belonging. The Associate Programme is about more than accessing work, it’s about quality, trust, engagement, contribution, and shared standards, encouraging these behaviors is what makes the programme thrive.
Building Community and Engagement
One of my biggest priorities is to foster a stronger sense of community. Engagement must be two-way. We want associates to shape the programme by telling us what kinds of events, formats, and content matter most to them - whether that’s more targeted sessions, virtual options, events outside London, or anything else.
We’ll continue to have regular conversations, not just when there’s an assignment on the table, but to share insights, exchange ideas, and discuss industry trends. I know different associates will want to engage at different levels, and that’s fine. What matters is that everyone feels there is a place for them in the community - however they choose to connect.
Smarter Processes for Greater Impact
To free up more time for meaningful engagement, we’re continuing to review and improve key elements of resourcing, compliance, and onboarding. Internal tools like Job Adder, C-map, and Co-Pilot are helping us reduce admin and focus our energy where it matters most, on building relationships, hosting events, and supporting our associates.
What This Means for Associates and Clients
For associates, these changes mean being part of something that is both supportive and selective. It’s about having access to high-quality opportunities, learning from peers, and belonging to a professional community that genuinely values your expertise. For clients, it means having access to trusted professionals who can hit the ground running, deliver with impact, and represent Platform Smart at the highest standard.
At its heart, the Associate Programme is built on relationships. By investing in our associates, strengthening the community, and aligning to market demand in key areas, our aim is to create a programme that benefits everyone involved.
As we look ahead, I want to say thank you. To our associates, for your dedication, professionalism, and trust. And to our back-office teams, for your hard work and commitment behind the scenes. None of this would be possible without you.
We’re not just building a programme; we’re building a community. And together, I believe we’ll continue to grow, adapt, and succeed.
We’re keen to hear from associates about what content they want to see. Stay connected with the Associate Programme by viewing our latest content here.
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With imminent news of new clients and therefore new opportunities on the horizon, we're eager to engage with our associates who are interested in sharing updates on their availability and current circumstances. Whether it's a casual catch-up and an opportunity to get an update on all things Platform Smart, or a focused discussion on new opportunities or subjects highlighted in our recent newsletters and other communications, we'd love to hear from you.
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