Surviving Industry Turbulence: Insights from OPM's Kim Parker-Adcock

In a recent interview, Kim Parker-Adcock, the founder of One Player Mission, shared her thoughts on the agency's collapse and the current state of the gaming industry. After 26 years in operation, OPM closed its doors due to the significant downturn in the industry. Parker-Adcock noted that the agency's role in recruitment provided a unique perspective on the industry's trends and challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic brought about a surge in business, with many companies expanding and hiring rapidly. However, this growth was short-lived, and by 2022, the number of job vacancies began to decrease. Despite efforts to adapt, OPM ultimately succumbed to the market downturn, and Parker-Adcock was forced to make the difficult decision to close the agency. She attributes the industry's decline to the unsustainable growth and subsequent correction, leaving many companies with high recruitment costs and a surplus of employees. Parker-Adcock believes that the industry is undergoing a reformation, with internal recruitment becoming increasingly popular. However, she also sees opportunities for agencies and freelance recruiters to thrive, particularly among smaller companies that cannot afford internal recruitment teams. When asked about the future of the industry, Parker-Adcock expressed uncertainty but emphasized the importance of resilience and adaptability. Her message to those affected by the layoffs is one of hope and determination, stating that if they can survive this challenging period, they will be equipped to overcome any future obstacles.