Russell Taylor in line for two major business awards

RUSSELL Taylor Group is in line for two major business accolades.

The company has been named as a finalist in the prestigious North West Entrepreneur of the Year Awards 2015 in the Family Business category.

Managing director Ben Russell is also a finalist in the Business Services Entrepreneur of the Year category.

The North West Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, the region's top honours for owner-managed companies, recognise the outstanding contribution business people make to the economy.

The Russell Taylor business, with headquarters at Marwood House on Riverside Park, Bromborough, grew from a father and son dream of an international technical recruitment and training provider that has become a reality in 10 years.

As well as aiming for a company turnover of £25m, Ben Russell and his wife Claire, and Ben's father, Peter Russell, also wanted to create a successful business where people loved to come to work and reach their full potential.

Their first “office” was in the spare bedroom at Ben's home in Wirral from where they serviced a small number of technical clients with permanent staff replacements.

The company's subsequent growth then resulted in Ben's sister Sarah being recruited as financial controller to steer robust financial management. Today, the independent family-run business – comprising Russell Taylor and Recruit Right - has exceeded all expectations and established a pivotal position in the UK technical and commercial recruitment market.

The headquarters team also has Claire's sister, an experienced finance director, to support the financial strategic planning as well as a cousin, Georgie, who is part of the marketing and PR team.

Peter's wife and Ben's mum, Pat, who was principal at Pensby High School for Girls, has also been instrumental in sourcing talent into the company as there are ex-pupils working in key roles in the business.

Peter said: "As the head of the family and chairman of the group, this is a huge honour for me to be a finalist in the Family Business category. We are, in fact, at Russell Taylor, one big family of which I'm so proud and investing in them has been so rewarding.

“Ben's achievements since the company was formed have been phenomenal and to have him as finalist in the Business Services Entrepreneur category makes me doubly proud.”

Russell Taylor Group is currently forecasting a record-breaking year after announcing a 30 per cent growth in sales in the past 12 months. By the end of 2016, projected turnover is £30m.

Winners of the North West Entrepreneur of the Year Awards will be announced on October 21 at the 14th annual awards event at The Mere Golf Resort and Spa, Knutsford.