We’re looking forward to introducing you to Ashlea Landrum . Check out our conversation below.
Ashlea , it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: Would YOU hire you? Why or why not?
Abso-freaking-lutely. I would hire myself because a fighter. I’ve learned that success isn’t about talent alone- it’s about grit, perseverance and the willingness to keep going when things get tough. I don’t shy away from challenges; I lean into them, learn quickly and stay committed. Ownership and deliverability is super important in my work and showing up as my best self every single day is key because I care about delivering to my company and clients- not just checking the boxes.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a career-driven businesswoman with nearly 20 years of experience in staffing and recruitment, but the title I’m most proud of is Mom. Following a divorce, setting an example for my children has become a guiding principle in both my personal and professional life. I strive to show them resilience, determination, and that it’s possible to build a successful career while raising a family — despite what someone told me once, you truly can have it all.
Over the years, I’ve learned that trust, long-term relationships, and strategic partnerships are the foundation of success in my business. Building meaningful connections with clients, candidates, and colleagues allows us to deliver reliable results, anticipate needs, and create solutions that truly support project goals. These relationships are not transactional — they are about understanding people, their challenges, and delivering value consistently over time.
I am currently a Senior Business Development Manager with Core Group Resources. We partner with companies operating across maritime, oil & gas (including offshore), energy, and marine construction to support both project-based and long-term hiring. We focus on roles where marine operations, safety, compliance, and execution are critical, spanning offshore and nearshore operations, energy and infrastructure projects, port and terminal environments, heavy construction, and industrial facilities.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A moment that really shaped how I see the world happened several years ago, during a conversation with a mentor. She told me, as a woman, that I could never have it all the way a man could — that there would always be trade-offs between career success and family. At the time, it stung, but it also lit a fire in me. I’ve made it my mission to prove that perception wrong, not just for myself, but for the example I set for my children.
That experience shaped my perspective in two key ways. First, it taught me the value of resilience and determination … that obstacles, bias, or doubts from others are opportunities to grow stronger and smarter. Second, it reinforced the importance of leading by example, both personally and professionally. Whether it’s building trust with clients, mentoring colleagues, or showing my kids that they can pursue their dreams without compromise, I approach every challenge with the mindset that success doesn’t have to come at the expense of what matters most.
Today, that lesson drives everything I do. It shapes how I lead, how I build relationships, and how I approach my career. Proving that with focus, integrity, and persistence, you really can have it all.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
One of the defining wounds of my life was going through a divorce after 13 years of marriage in 2022.. It wasn’t just the end of a relationship, it shook my sense of identity, stability, and certainty about the future. There were moments when I was genuinely at my lowest, questioning how I would move forward and whether I was strong enough to rebuild my life. Healing didn’t happen all at once. It came through responsibility, self-reflection, and choice. I made a conscious decision to keep moving…not only for my children but for myself. I focused on showing up every day, even when it was hard, rebuilding my confidence through action, and allowing resilience to replace fear. Over time, I learned to trust myself again, to set boundaries, and to redefine success on my own terms.
That experience healed me by teaching me strength I didn’t know I had. It reshaped how I lead, how I build relationships, and how I view adversity—not as something that breaks you, but as something that can refine you. Today, I carry that lesson forward, knowing that the hardest chapters often become the foundation for the strongest version of yourself.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
The person I admire most for their character is my Mom. Growing up, she consistently showed me that integrity and doing the right thing always win in the long run, even when it’s difficult or unpopular. She led by example — showing kindness, honesty, and strength in every decision she made- even as it relates to the business world.
Her example has shaped the way I approach life and work. In business, I strive to build trust, nurture long-term relationships, and make choices that are principled, not just expedient. Her lessons remind me that character, consistency, and integrity create sustainable success, influence others positively, and leave a legacy that goes beyond any single achievement.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing?
What I would most regret not doing is living life as fully and authentically as I can. Life is short, and I want to embrace every moment. Taking risks, loving with my whole heart, saying yes to experiences, buying those concert tickets, or pursuing opportunities that excite me. I’ve learned that the things we hesitate on out of fear or comfort often become the things we regret most. For me, living authentically means showing up fully in every aspect of life; personally and professionally. Making choices aligned with my values, and embracing experiences with curiosity and courage. I want to look back and know that I gave my all, not just played it safe.
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