​Events on the rise: Live Recruitment expands to meet soaring freelance demand

Live Recruitment, the UK’s largest specialist events recruitment agency, has announced a significant expansion of its freelance recruitment team. In the past 12 months Live Recruitment has made three key internal hires to boost its capacity in the ever-growing events industry with some additions bringing key specialisms in the design and creative sectors.

Growth in the events industry

These changes reflect the steadying and growth of the events industry, where businesses are increasingly ramping up projects and seeking flexible talent solutions. According to industry data from mia-uk.org, the UK events sector now generates over £61bn annually, with a noted shift towards more freelance roles as events bounce back and the need to add talent to their permanent teams. Live Recruitment’s expanded team is positioned to meet the strong demand for skilled freelancers at all levels in this steadying market.

Live Recruitment noted that “2025 promises to be a year of levelling out” after recent turbulence, with companies “not just surviving but thriving” and planning sustained growth. Many larger organisations have been acquiring smaller firms and bringing roles in-house - especially in the design and creative functions - to create comprehensive in-house teams. At the same time, brands are drawing on a wider talent pool and agencies everywhere are blending in-house, contract, and freelance expertise. Live Recruitment’s added capacity means clients can tap into this flexible talent market faster, and candidates benefit from even more opportunities.

Enhanced freelance services for clients

Live Recruitment’s enhanced freelance service offers clients quick, reliable access to top-tier events talent. Our 43,000+ candidate network and well-connected team mean projects can be staffed on short notice, with all payroll and admin handled by Live Recruitment. We match talent to budgets, and our specialist events recruiters screen and present only highly qualified candidates – saving client’s considerable time. After 20+ years leading the sector, we’re a trusted partner for agencies and businesses that need skilled freelancers without the hassle of a lengthy search.

Benefits for freelance professionals

Freelance professionals registering with Live Recruitment enjoy reliable, rapid payment and strong support. We offer weekly pay within 72 hours of timesheet approval, with no umbrella-company deductions, so contractors keep more of their earnings. Our automated timesheet system simplifies administration, and we provide full insurance cover for all freelancers. Registering with Live means access to roles at top event agencies and brands, backed by a trusted team with deep industry connections. With over two decades in the business, Live Recruitment is committed to freelancers’ careers and wellbeing.

Managing Director Laura Kelly emphasises the importance of the expansion: “As agencies and clients continue to build and strengthen their in-house teams across design, creative, and marketing, the need for flexible freelance support remains just as important. Freelancers play a vital role in helping organisations scale up during busy periods or deliver specialist expertise. By expanding our freelance division, we’re ensuring our clients have access to the full spectrum of talent – both permanent and freelance – to support their evolving needs.”

Founder James Walton adds: “Our success comes from our unrivalled network and industry know-how. These new team members amplify our ability to connect great candidates with great companies – sustaining the momentum of this vibrant industry.”

With confidence returning to the events sector, Live Recruitment’s bolstered freelance team is ready to support the next wave of events, exhibitions and experiential projects. As the UK’s No.1 events specialist recruiter, Live Recruitment continues to innovate, ensuring both clients and candidates have everything they need to succeed in the fast-paced events market.