Roheel Ahmad and Scott Parsons: Forsyth Barnes

Roheel Ahmad and Scott Parsons, 30
Company: Forsyth Barnes
Web: www.forsythbarnes.com

In the words of its co-founders, Forsyth Barnes’ mission is “to introduce the personal touch” back into recruitment.

In an industry often criticised for ignoring the requirements of its clients, this strategy offers a point of difference – and is already proving inspired.

Founded just three years ago, the business encompasses three offices and operates in an ever-growing number of fields including retail, financial services, telecoms and sports. Specialising in executive roles worth up to £250,000, its client base spans the full spectrum from start-ups through to corporate giants such as Adobe, Bupa and Premier League Football Clubs.

Co-founders Roheel Ahmad and Scott Parsons, who both forged successful recruitment careers, are happy to admit they’re not reinventing the wheel. Instead they focus on offering first-class care, going out and meeting clients to get a better idea of what they want and match them to the best possible candidate.

Success has been shared across the business; staff have even been whisked away to Barcelona and New York to celebrate key milestones.

Having started out in the heart of London, Forsyth Barnes has since expanded into Nottingham and now into Leeds, which will be the focus of major expansion over the coming months. Ahmad and Parsons are also ramping up their sports division and plan to open an office in New York, as they push towards their target of 100% average year-on-year growth.

In addition to their ambitious expansion plans, the co-founders are keen to nurture the next generation of talent. Forsyth Barnes also runs its own academy, offering training for graduates to become recruitment consultants and rise through the company’s ranks.

Little wonder that Forsyth Barnes has been recognised for its ‘Commitment to People Development’ at the 2017 East Midlands Chamber Awards – where Parsons picked up the Entrepreneur of the Year gong. The firm has also been recognised by Startups.co.uk before, having been named the 11th best start-up in the country for 2018.