Our DNA

When you work with Paragon, we become an extension of your business, working exclusively with you to achieve your people goals with a level of commitment that shines above the rest.

Diamonds are created under extreme pressure. In ancient times they represented courage and strength.

Paragon Recruitment emerged from the high-pressure environment brought on by COVID. Since 2007, founder Stephanie Richardson, has built an HR and Recruitment career amongst a roll-call of quality NZ businesses. Honing and polishing her skills and knowledge was perfect preparation for this moment. So, in 2020 Paragon was founded, named after the largest flawless diamond ever found.

I’m incredibly passionate about what I do and am immensely proud of the impact this business has made for growing Kiwi businesses. My expertise was built over many years in the corporate world, and it gives me great satisfaction to re-imagine the service to be accessible for SMEs around Aotearoa, New Zealand. 

I love keeping busy, and if it’s not my clients, or brewing up the ‘next big thing’ it’ll be a Lego build, Harry Potter movie or a game of “Magician vs. Construction Site” with my kids.

Aligning talent management strategies with the overarching objectives of a business is immensely fulfilling. My background in HR, Talent Planning, and Acquisition within global organisations, has equipped me with invaluable expertise. Now, I'm thrilled to extend this knowledge to the SME sector through my role at Paragon & Paradigm.

When I'm not immersed in enhancing organizational efficiency, you'll find me indulging in the great outdoors with my family, creating precious memories camping 'off grid'. Additionally, I find great joy in indulging my secret passion for upcycling furniture and various DIY projects, always eager to breathe new life into old materials.

I get such a thrill when I am with people. The best part of my role is working with our clients and providing them with solutions to support their business needs.

I am a busy Mum, juggling children, animals and life!

I've been working in Recruitment for over 8 years doing what I love the most, helping people find the perfect role to not only fit their lifestyle and family situation, but to support them in their career goals.
Out of work you will find me literally chasing my 2 daughters around or deep diving into new movies or building Lego.