Recruitment specialist expands new business with North East BIC support

Recruitment specialist Laura Gillespie has expanded her North East business just two months after its launch.

Gillespie Recruitment, which is based at the North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC), opened for business at the start of May this year.

Since launching, the firm has placed several candidates in new roles, and has expanded its own team with the appointment of two new members of staff.

Laura, who has more than 30 years’ experience in the North East business community, working in recruitment, media sales, marketing and fundraising, said it was working from home during the pandemic that gave her the push to start up her own business.

Laura explained: “Over the last year and a half – probably for a lot of people - it makes you realise that if you can do it from home, you can do it for yourself. I thought if I don’t do it now, I never will.

“The BIC was the first place I thought of. They have a great business team and you know you’re going to get the right support from the people here, which is why it’s so successful. I often speak to Louise Hardy. She’s a good mentor and a great sounding board, as anyone setting up a business feels a little apprehensive.

“The offices at the BIC are affordable for start-up businesses, and the staff couldn’t have been more helpful when I moved in. Yes, I could have worked from home, but I wanted a professional environment, and the space to add to my team moving forward. It’s a lovely office too, on the riverfront with beautiful views out the window. It’s a really nice spot to be in.”

Donna Surtees, centre manager at the BIC, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Laura and her new recruitment agency to the BIC.

“It’s great to hear that we made such a good impression when Laura was based here with previous employers, so much so that she has returned with her own business.

“Gillespie Recruitment is proof that you can start a business at any stage in your career, and a great example of how the pandemic is making people reassess the way in which they work.”