Interview with Debora Bezedea, Delivery Executive at VHR: A Practical Guide to Candidate Shortlisting and Career Positioning
The aviation industry continues to evolve, requiring both employers and candidates to adapt their approach to hiring and career development. At VHR, a global leader in aviation recruitment, understanding what drives successful placements is central to delivering quality talent to airlines, MROs, OEMs, and defence organisations worldwide.
In this interview, Debora Bezedea, Delivery Executive at VHR, shares practical insights into candidate evaluation, career positioning, and hiring trends. Her perspective reflects the wider shift towards skills-based hiring, transparency, and proactive engagement across aviation careers.
As aviation recruitment becomes more competitive, insights like these can support both employers seeking technical talent and candidates aiming to secure their next role.
Learn more about Debora and the VHR team by clicking here
The Role of CVs in Recruitment
One of the most common questions in recruitment is how much weight a CV carries in the shortlisting process. According to Debora, a CV remains an essential starting point, but it is not the deciding factor.
“A CV is a foundation, not a final answer. It shows what someone has done, but conversations are what bring that experience to life.”
In aviation recruitment, technical experience, regulatory awareness, and project history are critical. However, Debora emphasises that deeper assessment comes from:
- Direct conversations with candidates
- Understanding project exposure and technical capability
- Evaluating communication and alignment with role requirements
This reflects a broader industry trend towards competency-based hiring, as highlighted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO):
For candidates, this means that a well-written CV is important, but preparation for interviews and technical discussions remains equally critical.
Positioning Career Breaks and Long Experience Positively
Career breaks and long tenures are common in aviation careers, particularly given the cyclical nature of the industry. Debora advises candidates to approach these with transparency and confidence.
“It is important to be honest and clear. A career break does not need to be hidden. Focus on what you can do now and how your experience supports the role.”
In practical terms, candidates should:
- Clearly explain career gaps without overcomplicating the narrative
- Highlight any upskilling, certifications, or relevant activities during breaks
- Connect past experience with current role requirements
This aligns with guidance from organisations such as IATA, which emphasise continuous skills development in aviation:
From an aviation recruitment perspective, demonstrating current capability is often more valuable than focusing solely on timelines.
The Value of Direct Communication in Aviation Hiring
Aviation recruitment is a relationship-driven sector, and Debora highlights the importance of direct communication.
“It is always fine to reach out directly. It is not just about applying for a job. Asking questions or seeking advice can help open doors.”
For candidates, this proactive approach can:
- Provide clarity on job requirements
- Build rapport with recruiters
- Increase visibility beyond standard applications
Direct engagement can often reveal opportunities not immediately advertised, particularly in specialist technical roles.
At VHR, this approach is encouraged across global teams, ensuring candidates feel supported throughout the hiring process.
Learn more about VHR’s recruitment approach here
Timing vs Quality: What Matters Most in Applications
There is often a misconception that applying early guarantees success. Debora provides a clear perspective:
“Quality is more important than timing. Being early can help visibility, but strength of profile is what ultimately matters.”
In aviation recruitment, hiring managers prioritise:
- Relevant certifications and licences
- Demonstrated technical experience
- Alignment with project or operational needs
Applying early may increase exposure, but a strong application will always carry more weight. This principle is particularly relevant in safety-critical environments where compliance and capability cannot be compromised.
What This Means for Employers and Candidates
Debora’s insights highlight key takeaways for both sides of the aviation recruitment process.
For candidates:
- Treat your CV as a starting point, not a complete story
- Prepare to discuss experience in depth
- Be transparent about career breaks
- Engage proactively with recruiters
For employers:
- Go beyond CV screening to assess real capability
- Encourage open communication with candidates
- Focus on long-term potential as well as immediate skills
At VHR, these principles underpin the delivery of tailored recruitment solutions that support productivity and compliance across global aviation operations.
Supporting Career Growth Through Recruitment
Aviation remains a highly skilled and regulated industry, where the demand for experienced professionals continues to grow. By adopting a balanced approach to hiring, one that values both documentation and human insight, organisations can build stronger, more resilient teams.
For candidates, the message is clear. Present your experience honestly, engage proactively, and focus on demonstrating your current value.
Explore current aviation opportunities with VHR here: https://www.v-hr.com/jobs/
Further Reading from VHR
To continue building your aviation career knowledge, explore these related insights:
