Verification and Reference Specialist

Key Responsibilities

1. Background & Reference Check Execution

* Conduct end-to-end background verifications and reference checks for shortlisted and offer-stage candidates within standard target turnarounds (24–72 hours).
* Verify a minimum threshold of contactable direct managers (aiming for 4–5 across different companies; strictly non-negotiable minimum of 2).
* Authenticate candidates with international experience (AU, NZ, UK) by validating references directly from supervisors based in those specific markets.
* Handle dynamic setup checks (such as BPO environments or short-tenure roles under 6 months) by cross-verifying alternative proof: performance appraisals, awards, client commendations, and authenticated HR documentation.
* Conduct strict cross-verification of all referees via active LinkedIn profiles, formal email signatures, official press releases, event photos, or public records.

2. Investigative Red-Flag & Consistency Auditing

* Systematically cross-examine candidate CVs and Workable profiles against feedback provided by references to uncover discrepancies, timeline misalignments, or undisclosed performance issues.
* Identify integrity red flags—such as candidates claiming Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) while publicly listing the employer on LinkedIn or CVs—and directly reach out to listed organizations to verify legitimacy.
* Ensure zero inconsistencies or unverified claims bypass the screening process.

3. Escalation & Exception Management

* Flag and escalate exceptions to upper management for formal review (e.g., severe data privacy restrictions, genuine NDAs, unreachable contacts, or low cross-reference matching scores).
* Coordinate with recruiters to issue Client Exception Waiver Forms for rapid start dates where candidate onboarding precedes complete reference checks, ensuring Pear Tree is legally released from liability.
* Execute urgent, high-priority checks for short lead-time placements while keeping stakeholders aligned.

4. Stakeholder Communication & Operational Rigor

* Maintain real-time tracking, tagging, and status updates on the monday.com Reference Check Visibility Board (Exception, Urgent Priority, Standard Priority, Hold/Pause).
* Drive engagement with unresponsive candidates, recruiters, and referees by initiating and moderating dedicated WhatsApp channels to resolve bottlenecks quickly.
* Adhere strictly to daily calendar-blocking workflows dedicated to:
1. Exception & Urgent Priority Candidates
2. Standard Candidate Submissions
3. Structured Follow-ups & Outreach

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

100% adherence to verification criteria; zero unverified red flags missed

Completed within 24–72 hours for standard priority candidates

Real-time status accuracy on monday.com across all active pipelines

Proper escalation and document compliance on 100% of non-standard cases

Requirements

Candidate Qualifications

* Communication: Exceptional verbal and written English communication skills; persuasive, clear, and comfortable conducting phone/email outreach to high-level executives and international managers.
* Persistence & Drive: Tenacious and assertive in following up with busy referees across different global time zones (AU/NZ/UK) without sacrificing professionalism.
* Attention to Detail: Highly analytical mindset with an investigative instinct for spotting subtle contradictions between CVs, social profiles, and verbal statements.
* Organization & Time Management: Demonstrated ability to manage high-volume pipelines using structured time-blocking and project management tools (e.g., monday.com, Workable).
* Experience: 2+ years of experience in recruitment operations, HR compliance, background screening, or candidate vetting (experience working with AU, NZ, or UK markets and BPO environments is a strong advantage).

Benefits

Work From Home

Flexible Time (AU and UK Support Hours)