Partner Article

Getting to know... Elaine Irving

We know you as the owner of Extension Recruitment and a member of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, but who is the person behind the title? Tell us a little about what makes you tick… 

I’m really passionate about people - what motivates them, how they grow, and how the right opportunity can transform their lives. I thrive on connection, and I’m endlessly curious about what makes individuals and businesses tick. I also have a very technical mindset, which probably comes from my Dad who was an engineer. That curiosity about how things work has shaped so much of my journey. I’m proud to lead Extension Recruitment, where we aim to be just that - an extension of the businesses we support. We’re a collaborative, close-knit team, and everything we do is built on trust, integrity, and genuine partnership.

Did you always want to work in your industry? 

I think I may have missed my true vocation - I should have been an engineer! My Dad always inspired me, and I have a very technical mindset. I’m fascinated by how things work and how they’re made. While I didn’t follow that path directly, running a recruitment business that specialises in engineering and manufacturing is the next best thing. I get to engage with the engineering community every day, and I absolutely love it. Everyone who knows me knows I’m love a factory tour - there’s something pretty special about seeing the process behind the product and meeting the people who make it happen.

What’s the best bit about your job? And the worst? 

The best part is, without a doubt, the people - whether it’s helping someone land their dream role or supporting a business through growth. I’m especially proud of the relationships we’ve built with clients like Komatsu UK, who chose us as their recruitment partner. That kind of trust means everything. The worst part? Probably the unpredictability! Recruitment can be a rollercoaster, and sometimes things don’t go to plan despite your best efforts. But having a strong, supportive team around me makes all the difference - we face challenges together and celebrate the wins as one.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement? 

Being chosen as Komatsu UK’s recruitment partner is a huge highlight. They’re a globally respected brand, and to be trusted with such a key part of their growth was a real honour. It’s a testament to the quality of work we deliver and the strength of our relationships. I’m incredibly proud of our team - they’re talented, dedicated, and genuinely care about what we do. We work collaboratively, and that spirit is at the heart of everything we achieve.

How do you relax outside of work?

I love dramatic scenery and getting outdoors - walking, travelling, and exploring whether it be lakes, oceans, hills, or the cosy villages we’re lucky to have on our doorstep. I’m a big fan of spontaneous overnight stays around the North East, especially in a shepherd’s hut with a homemade meal and a good bottle of red on a lazy weekend.

What makes the North East such a great place to live and work? 

The people are the essence of our region - warm, grounded, and full of character. But it’s also the landscape: woodlands, beaches, waterfalls, and quaint villages, all within reach. And the heritage! From pioneering railways and shipbuilding to engineering giants like Lord Armstrong and the Stephensons, the North East has always been a place of innovation and grit. It’s no wonder we’re home to so many brilliant businesses and talented individuals. Being part of that community through Extension Recruitment is something I’m truly proud of.

Tell us something about you we didn’t know… 

I love cold water swimming! You’ll find me in the North Sea most Saturday mornings, embracing the chill and the clarity it brings. It’s my weekly reset - refreshing, invigorating, and a little bit wild!

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Entrepreneurs' Forum .