Empowering Talent, Redefining Recruitment: Tracey Batty-Jones on Purpose-Driven Hiring

In this inspiring interview, Tracey Batty-Jones, founder of Pure Professionals Group, shares how two decades of international experience shaped her mission to transform recruitment in the UAE. From building deep relationships in Asia to launching a purpose-led consultancy in Abu Dhabi, her story is about vision, resilience, and redefining what it means to connect people with opportunity.

Can you share a brief note about yourself?

I am an Australian with over two decades of international experience in executive search, recruitment, and consulting, spanning Australia, Asia, and the Middle East.

As the founder of Pure Professionals in Hong Kong, I earned a reputation for discretion and exceptional service while building meaningful connections. After that, I embraced new opportunities in corporate roles across Singapore and Australia, supporting some of the world’s most influential companies, including tech giants, investment banks, and Fortune-listed organisations.

These experiences laid the foundation for Pure Professionals Group, my next big adventure here in the UAE. We are shaking up the Abu Dhabi recruitment market with innovative, purpose-driven talent solutions designed to connect, inspire, and elevate.

Why did you choose to start a business?

I wanted to create something that wasn’t just about recruitment but about empowering businesses and individuals to thrive. Pure Professionals is my way of transforming traditional hiring into a more collaborative and agile process.

By combining my leadership expertise, merit and inclusive strategies, and passion for innovation, we are helping the UAE and APAC markets discover fresh talent solutions that truly make an impact. At Pure, it’s not just about filling roles, it’s about building careers, businesses, and communities that last.

How did you start your business?

Every great journey begins with a single step. For me, that meant partnering with a trusted corporate services provider to navigate the practicalities of setting up in the UAE. From there, it was all about establishing Pure’s distinctive identity: a balance of cutting-edge tech and the personal touch that truly sets us apart.

What do you wish you’d known before you started?

The entrepreneurial journey comes with its own unique lessons, and here are a few I have embraced:

Building trust takes time, relationships are the heart of success.

Technology isn’t just a tool; it’s a game-changer for building strategic connections.

Staying grounded is vital, taking a deep breath and focusing on the “big picture” makes all the difference.

And of course, I’ve learned the importance of celebrating small wins along the way!

Did you have any support in your journey?

I wouldn’t be where I am today without the unwavering support of my family, friends, and mentors. Their encouragement has been my anchor through every high and low.

The road hasn’t always been smooth, especially navigating a market influenced by rapid global changes, but resilience and adaptability have been key. At Pure, we’re driven by the belief that strong partnerships can spark meaningful impact for clients, communities, and even the planet.

What is your greatest challenge as a business owner?

Time. There’s never enough of it, is there? Balancing priorities while wearing so many hats can be tricky, but mentorship and guidance have been incredibly helpful in staying on course.

I also have to remind myself that patience is part of the process. While I sometimes wish for instant results, I have come to appreciate the beauty of building something extraordinary, step by step.

What advice would you give to your past self before opening your own business?

Trust yourself, don’t get caught up in trying to be perfect right away.

Budget smartly so you can enjoy life while building your dream.

Cherish your network, it’s your most valuable resource.

Look after yourself, when you’re at your best, so is your business.

Reflecting on your path to entrepreneurship, what key piece of advice would you offer to aspiring founders?

Dive in with a bold vision and let that passion drive you forward. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, and don’t be afraid to stumble along the way, those mistakes are stepping stones to growth. And remember, it’s not just about achieving success, but also about creating something that matters.