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Celebrating 9 Years of FBR Recruitment

9 years of FBR Recruitment.

Building a strong team - FBR Recruitment
This year marks a proud milestone for FBR Recruitment as we celebrate 9 years in business. What began as a small venture set up by Tom Flood, Richard Barnes, and Mark Ritchie has grown into a trusted recruitment business built on strong values, long-term relationships, and a genuine commitment to doing things the right way.

Why FBR Recruitment Exists: Our Mission & Values

FBR Recruitment was founded with a clear purpose: to create a better recruitment experience for both clients and candidates. From the outset, the business set out to move away from the transactional, volume-led approach that often dominates the industry, replacing it with a service built on honesty, personal relationships, and quality over quantity.

Recruitment should be about people, not numbers. At FBR, we take the time to understand our clients’ businesses and our candidates’ goals, ensuring every placement is made with long-term success in mind. Nine years on, what hasn’t changed is our commitment to integrity, transparency, and delivering a service people can trust.

How the Business Has Evolved

While our core values have remained the same, FBR Recruitment has continued to evolve and strengthen its offering. A key part of this evolution has been the development of a sector-specialist consultant model, ensuring that every consultant focuses on a defined area of the industry rather than working across multiple markets.

Each of our consultants now specialises in their own sector, building in-depth market knowledge, strong industry relationships, and a clear understanding of the specific challenges faced by both clients and candidates. This allows us to deliver a far more informed, tailored, and effective recruitment service.

We are proud to specialise within the construction industry, with dedicated consultants recruiting across:

  • Trades and Labour
  • Residential Developers
  • Main Contractors
  • Civil Engineering
  • Mechanical and Electrical
  • Health and Safety

This specialist structure enables us to stay close to each market, provide accurate advice, and consistently deliver high-quality results.

Building a Strong Team

Building a strong team - FBR Recruitment
A major part of FBR Recruitment’s success has been the people behind the business. Over the years, we’ve grown our team and welcomed 12 exceptional employees, each bringing expertise and dedication to their specialist areas. Together, they have helped build the strong, collaborative, and knowledgeable team we are proud of today.

Giving Back to the Community

  • Giving back to the community - FBR Recruitment
  • Giving back to the community - FBR Recruitment
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Giving back has become an important part of who we are. Two years ago, we launched our charity initiatives, and since then we have raised an impressive £7,765 through Charity of the Year fundraising, Wear It Pink days, Christmas Jumper days, and support for a variety of worthwhile causes. These initiatives reflect our belief that success should also be measured by the positive impact we make beyond the workplace.

Thank You to Our Clients and Candidates

We would not be celebrating this milestone without the continued trust and support of our clients and candidates. Your partnerships, loyalty, and recommendations have played a vital role in our journey, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who has chosen to work with FBR Recruitment over the past nine years.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate 9 years of FBR Recruitment, we’re proud of how far we’ve come, from a business founded by three people with a shared vision, to a specialist recruitment business known for its expertise, integrity, and people-first approach. As we look ahead, we remain focused on growth, strengthening our specialist divisions, maintaining high standards, and continuing to make a positive difference. Thank you for being part of our journey. Here’s to the next chapter of FBR Recruitment.

Work With Us

FBR Recruitment is a specialist construction recruitment agency supporting companies across the UK with high-quality staffing solutions. We work closely with construction businesses, developers, contractors, and consultancies to source skilled operatives and experienced professionals across all levels of the industry. With extensive market expertise and a consultative, people-first approach, we help employers secure the right talent, from trades and labour through to site management, commercial teams, and senior professionals. We understand the demands and time pressures of construction recruitment and tailor our services to meet each client’s specific needs, delivering reliable, long-term hiring solutions.

Explore our latest construction jobs, learn more about our recruitment services, or get in touch with our experienced consultants to find the skilled workforce your business needs to succeed.

Email Us 023 8033 2438 Message Us Submit CV
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2025 Review: A Year of Growth, Achievement & Community

2025 Review: A Year of Growth, Achievement & Community

2025 Review: A Year of Growth, Achievement & Community
As we reach the end of another successful year, December is the perfect moment to reflect on everything we’ve achieved throughout 2025. It’s been a year filled with growth, community involvement, brilliant team milestones, and strengthened partnerships across the construction industry. Here’s a look back at what has made this year so memorable for FBR Recruitment.

Supporting Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance – Our Charity of the Year

One of our proudest achievements in 2025 has been partnering with Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance as our Charity of the Year. We set out with a fundraising target of £4,000, but thanks to the amazing efforts of our team and supporters, we exceeded this goal, raising an incredible £4,973 so far.

Our fundraising highlights included:

  • Our first ever Charity Golf Day, which was a huge success.
  • A team 18km walk from Hengistbury Head to Bournemouth Pier and back.
  • Monthly bake-offs and our competitive pool tournament.
  • Our director, Tom completing both the New Forest Marathon and the Bournemouth Marathon, with two more planned next year in Cyprus and Santa Pola.
  • The team signing up for an 8km trail run around Queen Elizabeth Country Park.

We’re incredibly proud of the dedication shown by everyone involved and grateful to those who donated and supported us throughout the year.

Welcoming New Faces to the FBR Team

This year we were delighted to welcome three fantastic new team members who have each made a brilliant impact:

  • Tiffany Kinsey, Recruitment Consultant for Housing Developers
  • Sam Blythin, Recruitment Consultant for Main Contracting
  • Kinga Kot, Resource Consultant

They’ve all settled in seamlessly, adding fresh energy, expertise, and passion to the team. We’re excited to see their continued growth in 2026.

Recognition at the REC Awards

A standout highlight of 2025 was being shortlisted for “Best Company to Work For – Under 20 Employees” at the REC Awards. We had a fantastic team night in London celebrating the achievement and recognising the hard work that goes on behind the scenes every day.

This shortlist is a testament to our culture, team spirit, and commitment to continuous improvement.

Strengthening Relationships with Clients & Candidates

Throughout the year, we have continued to deepen our relationships across the construction industry. We’ve placed many candidates in roles perfectly suited to their skills and aspirations and supported numerous sites and clients with reliable, high-quality skilled workers. Visiting client sites has helped us better understand project needs and requirements, allowing us to provide tailored recruitment solutions for niche roles. We also offer ongoing support for candidates’ post-placement, from training advice to career guidance and performance check-ins.

We’re grateful for the trust placed in us and look forward to further strengthening these partnerships in 2026. Our commitment remains the same: to deliver honest, reliable, and effective recruitment solutions for every role.

Growing Our Online Presence & Industry Insights

Our social media channels have been busier than ever this year. We’ve shared:

  • Industry updates and FBR business insights
  • Consultant spotlight months, including sector-specific infographics
  • Video interviews and Q&As
  • Job role tips and guidance

These initiatives have helped clients and candidates gain a clearer understanding of who we are, how our consultants work, and the value we bring to the recruitment process.

Celebrating Milestones & Supporting Our Team

At FBR, our people are at the heart of everything we do. In 2025, we have:

  • Celebrated employee milestones, anniversaries, and birthdays
  • Supported learning, development, and upskilling across the team
  • Hosted our first FBR Family & Friends BBQ, bringing everyone together for a day of fun, connection, and celebrating our achievements

Building a strong internal culture continues to be one of our top priorities and 2025 has been a brilliant example of what we can achieve together.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we move into 2026, we’re excited to continue working with both new and longstanding partners across the construction industry. Whether you’re looking for work, planning your next hire, or want to discuss your recruitment strategy for the year ahead, we’re here to help.

We’d be happy to visit your site, arrange a meeting, or simply have a conversation about how we can support you. Here’s to another successful year, bring on 2026!

Partner with FBR Recruitment

FBR Recruitment is a trusted specialist in construction recruitment, matching skilled tradespeople and experienced professionals with leading construction companies, developers, and consultancies across the UK. Leveraging extensive industry expertise and a tailored approach, we support businesses in hiring the right talent across all levels—from trades and labourers to site supervisors and commercial teams. Understanding the unique demands of construction staffing, we deliver customised recruitment solutions that drive lasting results. Explore our website to view current job opportunities, learn more about our recruitment services, or connect with our expert team to find the talent your business requires.

Work with FBR Recruitment

FBR Recruitment is a leading name in construction staffing, connecting skilled workers and experienced professionals with top construction firms, developers, and consultancies across the UK. With deep industry knowledge and a personalised approach, we help businesses hire the right people at every level, from trades and labourers to site managers and commercial teams. We know the challenges of construction recruitment and provide bespoke staffing solutions designed to deliver long-term results.

Explore our website to view current job opportunities, learn more about our recruitment services, or connect with our expert team to find the talent your business requires.

Email Us 023 8033 2438 Message Us Submit CV
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7 Questions You Should Ask a Recruiter Before Spending Money on Them

7 Questions You Should Ask a Recruiter Before Spending Money on Them - November Blog Post by FBR

7 Questions You Should Ask a Recruiter Before Spending Money on Them - November Blog Post by FBR
Hiring the right talent is one of the most important decisions a business can make and the wrong hire can be costly. That’s why many companies turn to recruiters for help. But the truth is, not all recruiters provide the same level of service, and some charge significant fees without delivering real results.

Before you invest in recruitment support, it’s essential to ask the right questions. Doing so not only protects your budget but also ensures you’re partnering with someone who will genuinely add value. Here’s a breakdown of the seven key questions and how FBR stands apart in each area.

1. What specific services am I paying for?

Too often, recruiters offer vague packages that leave clients unsure about what they’re actually getting. Are you paying for CV screening, candidate outreach, advertising, or full end-to-end recruitment?
Tip: Ask for a detailed breakdown of services and the associated costs. If a recruiter can’t clearly explain what’s included, that’s a warning sign.

How FBR stands out:
We provide full transparency from the start. Our clients know exactly what services they’re getting, from advertising roles and headhunting candidates to interview coordination and ongoing support. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges, just clear, accountable recruitment.

2. What experience do you have in my industry?

Every industry has its own nuances, whether it’s compliance requirements, salary benchmarks, or the soft skills that really matter. A recruiter without experience in your sector can waste weeks and still deliver poor-fit candidates.
Tip: Request specific examples of placements in your field and ask about any challenges they overcame.

How FBR stands out:
FBR focuses on industries where we have proven expertise. We understand what makes a candidate succeed in your sector, which reduces time-to-hire and improves long-term retention. Our clients benefit from our deep industry knowledge, not just a generic hiring service.

3. How do you source your candidates?

Some recruiters simply post job ads and wait for applicants. Others proactively headhunt the best talent from their networks.
Tip: Ask about their sourcing strategy. Are they leveraging social networks like LinkedIn, tapping into passive talent pools, or relying mainly on job boards?

How FBR stands out:
We combine multiple sourcing strategies tailored to each role. Whether it’s targeted outreach to passive candidates or using our extensive network to find hidden talent, we don’t rely on chance, we deliver results.

4. What is your success rate?

Paying a fee without evidence of results is risky. You deserve to know whether the recruiter can actually deliver the hires you need.
Tip: Ask for data on placements, time-to-fill, and candidate retention. A professional recruiter will share this openly.

How FBR stands out:
Transparency is at our core. We provide clear metrics for our success, including average time-to-fill and long-term retention rates. Many of our clients return to us for repeat hiring because we consistently deliver.

5. How do you ensure the candidates you present are the right fit?

Finding a candidate who simply meets the job description isn’t enough, they need to fit your team and company culture too.
Tip: Ask how the recruiter assesses candidate skills, experience, and personality to make sure they match both the role and your company.

How FBR stands out:
We take a consultative approach, getting to know your business, team, and values before recommending candidates. By combining detailed screening, in-depth interviews, and industry insight, we focus on quality over quantity, helping you find candidates who truly fit and thrive in your organisation.

6. What communication can I expect from you?

Poor communication can make even a great recruiter frustrating to work with. Updates should be timely, clear, and consistent.
Tip: Ask about expected response times, how often updates are given, and whether there’s a single point of contact.

How FBR stands out:
We value transparent, proactive communication. Clients have one dedicated contact and regular updates throughout the recruitment process. You’ll never have to chase for information or wonder what’s happening behind the scenes.

7. Can I speak to previous clients?

Reputation matters. A good recruiter should welcome the chance to connect you with satisfied clients.
Tip: Ask for references and read testimonials carefully. Look for clients in similar industries or roles.

How FBR stands out:
We proudly share client feedback and success stories. Many of our clients continue working with us year after year, which is a strong indicator of trust, reliability, and results.

Bonus Tip: Trust Your Instincts
Even if a recruiter answers all the right questions, it’s important to consider how you feel about working with them. Do they listen? Do they seem genuinely invested in your success? Chemistry and trust are just as important as metrics and guarantees.

Why Choosing the Right Recruiter Matters

Recruitment is about more than just filling a role; it’s about building a team that drives your business forward. Asking the right questions ensures you avoid costly mistakes and partner with someone who truly understands your needs.

At FBR, we combine industry expertise, proactive sourcing, and transparent communication to make every hire a success. We don’t just place candidates, we build long-term partnerships with our clients, delivering talent that fits both the role and your company culture. With FBR, you’re not just hiring a recruiter; you’re gaining a trusted partner committed to your growth.

Work with FBR Recruitment

FBR Recruitment is a leading name in construction staffing, connecting skilled workers and experienced professionals with top construction firms, developers, and consultancies across the UK. With deep industry knowledge and a personalised approach, we help businesses hire the right people at every level, from trades and labourers to site managers and commercial teams. We know the challenges of construction recruitment and provide bespoke staffing solutions designed to deliver long-term results. Visit our website to browse current roles, discover our range of recruitment services, or speak to our expert team to start finding the talent your business needs.

Email Us 023 8033 2438 Message Us Submit CV
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Spotlight on Women in Construction: Firsthand Insights from FBR’s Female Candidates

Spotlight on Women in Construction: Firsthand Insights from FBR's Female Candidates.


Celebrating Women in Construction Week! This is a time to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of women in the Construction Industry. Despite being historically male-dominated, women have been breaking barriers, shattering stereotypes, and making strides in various roles within the Construction sector.

In this special blog edition, we’ve had the privilege of interviewing several of our inspiring female candidates. Their stories, experiences and insights shed light on the challenges they’ve overcome, the successes they’ve achieved, and advice for women looking to get into construction.

Interview 1:

Meet Emma Arnold, currently working as an Assistant Site Manager placed by one of our Consultants, Cameron Whitley.

What is your role and what does it entail?
Assistant Site Manager – My job role is to help the Site Manager in delivering construction projects to completion. I generally supervise the project from 1st fix through to handover, this includes organising both trades and materials while also making sure that health and safety regulations are adhered to at all times.

What has it been like being a woman in construction, and how do you see the industry changing?
I have worked in the construction industry for almost 9 years now and I have never had any problems with being the only woman on a site. I think that women on construction sites is becoming more common and generally most men are not concerned about this, I do believe it is down to the individuals you come across rather than the industry as a whole.

What advice would you give other women looking to start a career in Construction?
My advice would be to just go for it, most of the men I’ve come across are more scared of you than you are of them.

Experience on working with me and FBR Recruitment in general.
I first dealt with Cameron from FBR last year when I got made redundant from my previous role, he was very helpful and friendly. He helped me find a new job within one month so my unemployment time was to a minimum.

Interview 2:

Meet Emma Richards, a Contracts Manager placed by FBR.

What is your role and what does it entail?
Contracts Manager for a fit-out and refurbishment company which involves raising orders for sub-contractors, suppliers and materials for each project, material take-offs, putting together the Health & Safety paperwork and site plans as well as liaising with clients, designers/architects and site teams. Projects can range from empty offices to live, multi-occupancy buildings and sites.

What has it been like being a woman in construction, and how do you see the industry changing?
I began in the construction industry back in 2000 starting with an NVQ 3 in Carpentry & Joinery, from there working as a machinist making doors, windows, frames and kitchens etc. I then decided to look into Site/Contracts Management completing various qualification and gaining valuable experience mainly within the shop fitting and fit-out sectors. I have been very fortunate to have worked with some amazing people and companies that have both been supportive and encouraging throughout my career.

The industry has changed a lot over the years and will continue to do so. It is already working hard to encourage more women to pursue a rewarding career within the sector. There’s much more consideration taken and provisions put in place on site as standard and there is now much more choice in site clothing, boots and PPE etc. which is really encouraging. I certainly look forward to the next 20 years and seeing how much further we can progress as an industry.

What advice would you give other women looking to start a career in Construction?
If it’s something you would like to do and are passionate about just go for it, don’t over think it, there really are so many options and avenues you can follow, something to suit everyone from cost management, site management, engineering, trades, designing, architecture, health and safety etc. If you look for the opportunities, they are there to take, be pro-active and enjoy!

Conclusion

As we conclude this blog honouring Women in Construction, we extend our gratitude to the women who shared their stories and insights. These journeys serve as reminders of the resilience, strength, and talent that women bring to the Construction Industry every day.

If you’re a female looking for work within the Construction Industry, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Or to browse some of our current available jobs visit our Jobs Board.

Let’s continue to champion diversity, promote inclusivity, and create opportunities for women to thrive in Construction and beyond.

Together, we can build a brighter, more equitable future for all.

FBR – Construction, Residential, Civil Engineering and Trades and Labour Recruitment Services in the South East of England

We are a recruitment agency serving the South East, Home Counties & South Coast of the UK, including Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Dorset, Essex, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Surrey, East & West Sussex and Middlesex. Whether you are a construction contractor, housing developer, civil engineering contractor, client or job-seeking candidate, contact FBR Recruitment for all construction recruitment and staff requirements — we’ll be very happy to help you.

Email Us 023 8033 2438 Message Us Submit CV
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How do Recruitment Agencies Work?

The ultimate goal of a recruitment agency is to match the right talent with the right job

How do recruitment agencies work? A guide to the different ways recruitment agencies work, including how to match the right candidate to the right job role, fees, etc.

Recruitment agencies work in various different ways. The ultimate goal of a recruitment agency is to match the right talent with the right job role and company. Call us corporate matchmakers if you will. 

The way that recruitment agencies make their money can be different, some recruiters work on a flat fee if the candidate they sourced was selected for a role. Other recruiters take a percentage pay based on the annual salary for the role. Recruitment agencies are running a business after all, however, there are good recruitment agencies and less than ideal ones. 

It is important to speak to the recruitment agency you are looking to work with, as a candidate as well as a business. If they are not transparent in how they make money or withhold information from you; that’s a huge red flag and you should consider your options.

Ultimately finding the right recruitment agent is key to ensuring that the right talent is in the right roles. Recruiting is expensive, even if you as a business decide to do it in house. That is why working with a recruitment agency can be beneficial as we work to align your needs as a business with the best talent on the market. 

Now we understand how the basics of a recruitment agency works, what does a recruitment agency do to make this happen?

Sourcing Candidates

One of the tasks that recruitment agencies need to do is source candidates. This can be done by outreaching online to those who have set public profiles as interested/open to work. 

Additionally, we have secure databases that we are able to use to help us match current job offerings with potential candidates. This allows us to match up both the candidate’s interests and requirements with the company looking to recruit.

Advertising Job Roles

Another thing recruitment agencies do is advertise roles they are recruiting for. Recruiting new talent is time consuming and takes a lot of effort for companies. Using a recruitment agent to advertise and pre-vet candidates helps those companies as well as proves beneficial for the candidates themselves. 

Supporting both Companies and Candidates

Recruitment agencies also work to support both companies looking to recruit as well as candidates. 

It is important for us as a recruitment company to align the company we are recruiting for with the right candidates and talent. We are there to answer any questions and support candidates with interview preparation and more. 

Our team are also experts in European recruitment and are able to assist with information relating to work permits and additional qualifications.

How to Work with Us as a Candidate

There are two ways in which you as a candidate can work with us. The first way is to view our jobs board and apply for any jobs relevant to your experience and skills. This is a great way if you are actively looking for new opportunities. 

The second way you can work with us is to contact us and submit your information and be included in our database. This way our recruiters will be able to access your information should an opportunity arise that you are suited for. 

Sourcing a Recruitment Agency as a Business

If you are a business looking to work with a recruitment agency there are some things you should consider. 

The first consideration is whether your recruitment agent is an expert in your industry. Not every recruitment agency understands the nuances of specific industries and this can make it difficult to ensure the right candidate is selected. At FBR, we are experienced in recruiting for construction roles and the construction industry as a whole. We understand the importance of specific qualifications such as CSCS and NEBOSH. 

Another important consideration is how they select candidates. Some recruitment agents select candidates by waiting for a submission. This can take time and if your recruiter isn’t working hard to find the right talent, are they the best recruiter for you? 

Ultimately working with a recruitment agency should be easy and stress free for both parties. At FBR, we work with both candidates and companies to ensure that the selection process is easy and accessible. We focus on the right candidates and talent for the right company. 

FBR – Office & Construction Recruitment Services in the South East of England

We are a recruitment agency serving the South East, Home Counties & South Coast of the UK, including Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Dorset, Essex, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Surrey, East & West Sussex and Middlesex. Whether you are a construction contractor, housing developer, business or job-seeking candidate, contact FBR Recruitment for all construction recruitment and office staff requirements — we’ll be very happy to help you.

Email Us 023 8033 2438 Message Us Submit CV

 

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