We catch up with Hataimata Boonyaratgalin (Hannah), consultant of Peak Recruitment. Hannah is a specialist in Food and Beverage and Crop Science Industries in our team. Let's see how her path in Food and Agriculture has been paved, and find out a bit more about her life outside of work.
What was your first job?
Peak Recruitment is both my first and current job. I developed an interest in recruitment during my internship in an HR department, where I became curious about the hiring process. This experience motivated me to pursue a role where I can contribute to filling vacancies and supporting workforce needs—especially in the food and agriculture industry, where I understand how important this sector is to the world.
Tell us a bit about your career to date and how you got into recruitment.
I’m currently working as a Researcher, where I support various aspects of the recruitment process—including market research, sourcing talented candidates, conducting interviews, and handling document preparation. I'm continuously learning and gaining a deeper understanding of what it takes to be an effective recruiter. Knowing how essential it is to keep the talent pipeline strong across all industries, I’m motivated to grow within the recruitment field. My goal is to become a recruiter that both candidates and clients can rely on and trust.
If you had to pick a job in the food or agriculture industry, what would it be? And why?
If I had to choose a different path, I’d probably go into the food industry. My family ran a restaurant when I was growing up, and I have so many great memories of being around the buzz—greeting customers, chatting with regulars, and just soaking up the lively atmosphere. My mom is also an amazing baker, and I loved watching her create the most delicious cakes. It’s always stuck with me how something as simple as a good meal or a sweet treat can brighten someone’s day. That joy and connection through food really left a lasting impression on me.
What are your interests outside of work?
I enjoy trekking, hiking, and traveling to explore new places. I’ve also been practicing Pilates for almost three years now. I’m really passionate about exercise and working out with friends.
Tell us something not many people know about you?
I lived near the beach for a few years as a kid, and even though I was really young, it left a lasting impression. Watching sunsets with family and being surrounded by nature made the ocean feel like a peaceful escape—something I still carry with me today.
Are you a beer or wine person?
I’m more of a cocktail person, as wine and beer can sometimes be a bit too strong for my taste. I enjoy ordering drinks with fancy names off the menu—sometimes they taste great, and other times it’s a bit of a surprise!
What is your favorite food?
Any kind of Tom Yum will always be my favorite—it’s the ultimate comfort food for me.
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
I’m working on going to the gym regularly. My friends and I recently started a fitness package near home, where we can do weight training or join a variety of classes, like Zumba, Les Mills, yoga, and BodyPump.
If you could choose a superpower, what would it be?
I’d choose the ability to teleport. Not only would it help me avoid traffic jams, but I could also travel faster. Sure, I’d miss out on a few things in between trips, but sometimes avoiding the traffic makes it all worth it!
What country, apart from your home country, would you like to live in?
I’d love to live in Sweden or perhaps the USA, specifically Alaska. I had the opportunity to join the Work and Travel program and spent two and a half months living in Alaska. It was an incredible experience, allowing me to explore the peaceful nature every day. It’s a memory that still holds a special place in my heart. And I have to mention—the mosquitoes in Alaska are huge!
What is the coolest role you've placed?
One of the coolest roles I’ve placed was an R&D Supervisor in food coating products. It was especially meaningful to me because it was one of my first successful placements. The candidate’s positive attitude and personality left a lasting impression on me, which made the entire experience feel truly rewarding.
What is your all time favorite movie?
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe has always been my favorite movie. I watched it when I was really young, and Lucy was about the same age as me at the time. Whenever I watched it, I would imagine myself as Lucy—so much so that I used to open the wardrobe in my room, close my eyes, and try to feel a breeze, hoping I’d somehow step into Narnia too. It’s a memory that has really stayed with me.
What are some of your goals (work or personal) for 2025?
One of my personal goals for 2025 is to enjoy the little things in life. I’m learning to appreciate everyday moments and recognize that simply being able to live, experience, and access so many things is a privilege. It's about slowing down and finding joy in simplicity.
Your life mantra is / Your philosophy on life is / The words you live by are…
Sometimes we fall and then we rise.
Name three things right now you are grateful for.
I’m grateful for my family, my friends, and the opportunities I’ve had in life. Their support and presence have shaped who I am and continue to inspire me every day.
One job I’m recruiting for RIGHT NOW is:
An R&D Manager in the food industry. It’s a challenging position for me, as it’s my first time sourcing and interviewing candidates at a senior level—but it’s also a great opportunity to grow and push myself professionally.