The Power of Connecting Locally: JS Recruitment’s We Are Wakefield Journey

Posted on | by Claire Sutherley

In an age of digital platforms and global outreach, the value of local connection remains unmatched. For businesses, charities, and public sector organisations, building strong relationships within your own community can unlock opportunities, foster resilience, and create lasting impact.

That’s exactly what We Are Wakefield Ltd, has achieved. With over 200 members, it has grown into a vibrant, collaborative family of professionals who share a common goal: to support one another and thrive together.

What sets We Are Wakefield apart is its holistic approach to networking. It’s not just about events—it’s about building a toolkit that responds to real member needs. This toolkit includes:

  • A heavily subscribed newsletter filled with opportunities, updates, and member highlights
  • The We Are Wakefield Podcast, showcasing member stories, best practices, and sector insights
  • A LinkedIn members group for ongoing dialogue and collaboration
  • Social events like the Quiz Night in partnership with Wakefield Hospice, where members enjoy friendly competition that never outweighs the spirit of collaboration
  • Regular volunteer days with member charities to support CSR initiatives and give back to those supporting our community

Beyond the core membership, WAW offers flagship initiatives that extend its impact across the region:

These events provide further opportunities for visibility, learning, and connection—bringing together businesses, charities, educators, and public sector leaders in meaningful ways.

The results speak for themselves. Large organisations like the Mid-Yorkshire NHS Trust have opened up local supply chains, while national companies with a Wakefield presence have streamlined procurement and created new opportunities for members. The estimated x12 ROI on networking reflects the depth and quality of these connections.

One member, Sarah Knight, Director of JS Recruitment, shared her experience:

“At JS Recruitment, we’ve always believed that business isn’t just about transactions, it’s about relationships. Over the years, we’ve discovered the true magic of networking: connecting with like-minded professionals, sharing ideas and creating opportunities that wouldn’t exist in isolation.

Being a member of We Are Wakefield has brought this to life for us. It’s not just a network. It’s a community of ambitious, supportive and collaborative business leaders. Through our involvement, we’ve experienced tangible benefits that have strengthened every area of our business…”

Sarah’s story is one of many. From securing new clients and suppliers to strengthening CSR strategies and learning from peers, the benefits of local networking through We Are Wakefield are both wide-reaching and deeply personal.

In Wakefield, collaboration isn’t just encouraged—it’s embedded in the culture. And that’s what makes We Are Wakefield stand out: it’s not just a network. It’s a movement. With strong and clear ambition for 2026, this movement can only become more significant.