Is It Time to Hire?

As your business grows, so do the demands on your time, energy, and resources. So, how do you know when it’s the right time to make your first hire—and what should that first step look like?

This practical and engaging session is designed to help small business owners and early-stage founders identify the signs that it might be time to hire. We will explore common growth triggers, how to prioritise the right kind of support, and what your hiring options are—from freelancers to your first employee.

You will also get a clear, jargon-free overview of the essential steps to hiring compliantly and confidently—without the overwhelm. Whether you are actively thinking about hiring or just feeling stretched, this session will help you make informed decisions about how (and when) to grow your team.

Presented by:

Opemipo (Ope) Koshemani is the founder of Protean HR, a boutique HR consultancy that helps startups and growing businesses build the right foundations for sustainable growth. With over a decade of experience in HR strategy, recruitment, and organisational development, Ope specialises in supporting small business owners through key transitions—like making their first hire or navigating compliance with confidence. She brings a practical, people-first approach designed to meet businesses where they are and help them scale with clarity.