Monica Clare Recruitment (MCR) has announced that Simon Rutten is a new shareholder and partner in the business, effective as of 1 July 2021.

In his new appointment, alongside Founders Clare Ferguson and Monica Walmsley, Simon will lead MCR’s national expansion and contribute to a growing business vision.

He will also continue as Business Leader for Executive Search Recruitment.

Simon made an immediate impact when he joined MCR in August 2019. With 17 years of recruitment experience, he has been a driver of change, diversifying the business offering and strengthening the reach of the brand.

He has also been pivotal in growing the executive search arm of the business.

Co-Founder, Clare Ferguson, says Simon is unmatched in his area of expertise.

“There’s no one in the market, and especially in the region, with the knowledge or network that Simon has. Clients really feel valued when Simon is on the account and our consultants constantly learn from how he conducts his business,” she said.

MCR Co-Founder, Monica Walmsley says Simon is bold, honest, fair, caring and open to learning. Values matching those she shares with Clare and are instrumental in making decisions that are right for the business.

“What’s really special about Simon is he has firm values. Our recruitment principles guide each decision we make about our business. Having the skills, knowledge and leadership was part of the reason we made Simon shareholder, but the other part was for those values he shares with us,” Monica said.

Simon joined MCR, moving from a tier-one recruitment firm looking for greener pastures. He found fertile ground at MCR, a place he says is, “agile, innovative, community-minded and who prioritise and invest in their culture.”

“I’ve been in recruitment since 2003 and I’ve never seen a business operate like this. MCR will try new things and adapt. There is a formula here that is inspiring and exciting,” Simon said.

Even during a period of market uncertainty during 2020, Simon saw opportunities for the business and prospects for unbridled growth.

“In 2020, many industries and businesses were put on hold. When I took stock of where I was, I saw we had a great team, charged with passion, and motivated to deliver an exemplary service for our clients, candidates, and the business.

“The whole team saw out the tough period together and we are now setting new business records. That’s special in recruitment, and it’s unmatched in the industry.”

With a large network and an earned reputation in the industry, Simon is excited to invest in growing MCR’s geographic reach. The value of the service offered to candidates and clients is also a high priority.

“I’m looking at how MCR can grow, applying my experiences and expertise in executive search across all industries. It’s exciting because I think MCR already has some of the strongest verticals in the market. I’m building on an incredible foundation,” he said.

Simon credits the MCR team for continued business success.

“I feel lucky that I’ve been given the opportunity to work with two amazing co-founders who believed in me and saw that I could be instrumental in growing the business.”

“We are also very fortunate to have Krystle Parker as Recruitment Director, leading our team and encouraging our consultants to flourish,” he concluded.

IMAGE | Monica Clare Recruitment Co-Founder, Clare Ferguson, Simon Rutten and other Co-Founder, Monica Walmsley (left-right).