Chris, London Contracts Manager
Joined GCS in January 2000
“It’s not just about the financial rewards, although they are fantastic. There is also a tremendous satisfaction when you solve a problem for a candidate and a client by finding the right person for the right job.”
Chris spent his early career as a chef but, although he remains passionate about cooking, he knew it wouldn’t give him the challenge and lifestyle he wanted. He was convinced that GCS would give him more than just a career: it also presented huge opportunities for personal growth.
Starting as a Resourcer, he has progressed through every stage on the GCS ladder, generating over £2 million for the company in the process. He has now risen to Contracts Manager at the London office: “The training I’ve received from the start has been fantastic, and it’s great that I’m now in a position to put something back by helping other people progress.”
Chris relishes the challenge he often faces to meet a client’s exact requirements: “With our knowledge, experience and systems, we can usually fulfil even the most difficult placement requests within incredibly tight timescales. A client might ask on a Friday for someone to start on a Monday, but we’ll do what it takes to achieve that, even if it means working late until we’ve found the right person. When it goes right, there is such tremendous satisfaction hearing a client and a candidate say thank you for achieving the impossible.”
Although recruitment is hard work, for Chris the atmosphere at GCS makes a difference: “It’s a team environment, and the great banter that flies around the office gets us through the toughest times.
“When I look back at the hours I worked as a chef and the rewards I received, the contrast at GCS is unbelievable. I’ve been to Las Vegas and Spain, to wonderful restaurants and football matches, all in recognition of the work I’ve put in. But more than that, I have a fantastic lifestyle and I have much more time to spend with my family.”
Chris still has ambitious goals: “GCS is my long-term career and if the opportunity arises I’d like to take equity in the company or become a director. The 10 years have flown by and I’ve made huge advances: if I can achieve as much in the next 10 years I’d be very happy.”
