Central Employment
What were your key achievements for this year?
This year has been a pivotal period of growth and strategic development for Central Employment. We successfully grew our permanent recruitment division, positioning ourselves as a trusted partner for long-term talent solutions. This expansion was supported by the recruitment of experienced professionals to lead and develop this department. Their expertise has been instrumental in driving innovation and improving operational efficiency within the division.
Has everything gone according to plan?
Overall, the year has been successful, but not without challenges. While we achieved or exceeded many of our strategic objectives, external market conditions, particularly in the automotive and manufacturing sectors, required us to adapt quickly.
What are you most proud of this year?
2025 has been a landmark year for Central.
Our proudest achievement was breaking into the Teesside market and securing a strategic partnership with a leading international energy supplier. This breakthrough has been instrumental in driving growth and strengthening our regional presence, opening doors to new opportunities, and reinforcing our reputation as a trusted recruitment partner.
Did your customer base grow as expected?
Yes, it was steady rather than explosive, which suited our growth plans whilst we laid the foundations and allowed us to maintain service quality.
Following the appointment of our new Head of Permanent Recruitment in January, we strategically shifted focus toward strengthening our permanent recruitment division, as well as deepening relationships with existing clients.
Tell us about your team.
Central Employment are a tight-knit, multi-skilled group that thrives on accountability and autonomy, from our temporary recruitment teams in Newcastle and Teesside, to our Permanent Division with full UK coverage, each member plays a pivotal role. We have built a culture of trust, and it shows in how we handle challenges and celebrate wins.
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve received this year?
Two quotes from the book ‘Traction’ by Gino Wickman have shaped how we lead and grow.
“Clarity beats complexity every time.”
“Consistency compounds – small actions done daily outperform big bursts.”
In recruitment, success isn’t just about placements, it’s about the consistent actions that make them happen, sourcing, client engagement, and collaboration. By recognising and rewarding these behaviors, we’ve built a culture where effort and accountability matter as much as results.
Before expanding any part of the business, make sure the foundations are solid. This advice helped us avoid rushing into growth, without the right systems in place.
What has been the most enjoyable business event you’ve been to this year?
One of the standout events of 2025 was our own annual networking day at Newcastle Racecourse.
This event has become a cornerstone of our commitment to clients, prospects, and business partners, blending business with enjoyment in a way that cultivates genuine relationships.
This year was particularly poignant as we celebrated the 10-year anniversary of our management buyout, signifying a new chapter for the future of the business.
Describe 2025 in three words.
Resilient. Strategic. Evolving.
What are your top three priorities for 2026?
Talent Development. Investing in leadership and skills training.
Accelerate growth in permanent recruitment by expanding our presence in high-demand sectors such as finance, IT, engineering, logistics, and energy.
Enhance operational efficiency through the introduction of AI-driven tools to assist our teams in working more.
Any New Year’s resolutions?
Delegate more to empower the team. Build trust and accountability by giving team members greater ownership of projects and decisions, fostering leadership at every level.
Stay proactive with compliance and legislation changes. Monitor evolving employment laws and industry regulations to ensure we remain fully compliant and ahead of potential risks.
Celebrate wins, big or small, more often. Recognise achievements regularly to boost morale, strengthen team culture, and maintain motivation throughout the year.
centralemployment.co.uk