From furlough to ambitious growth plans in three months

Two Aberdeen recruitment professionals launch company during a pandemic, having been on furlough for much of the previous year.

Starting a new company is a big decision during ‘normal’ times but to do so during a global pandemic, when there is so much uncertainly in the world, is a brave decision too. After spending 9 months of 2020 on furlough, colleagues Kris Stuart and Craig Mackenzie decided to do exactly that, and in January 2021 FinTech Recruitment Solutions was launched.

Kris explains that although the decision to launch a company during a pandemic wasn’t an easy one, it made a lot of sense:

“Craig and I each have over 10 years’ experience in finance and IT recruitment, so we know the sectors and have good contacts in them. There is a big demand for professionals in the FinTech space - the so called ‘grey area’ between IT and Finance, where process improvements and systems analysis work can really add value to businesses.

In a strange way setting up the company and communicating with each other - and clients -online during lockdown has meant that we’ve launched with the most up to date technology and with business plans that have already been pressure tested!”

FinTech has won numerous contracts in the first three months and Craig believes this is just the start of what can be achieved:

“We have a hands-on philosophy and a commitment to finding first-class solutions. We think this make us unique in the market and not just in Aberdeen, or even Scotland.

There is no doubt we are ambitious - we’ve already won contracts spanning the length and breadth of the UK - and are looking at expanding our operations by opening an office in the central belt with a local market expert.”

FinTech is part of Clan Partners – a Scottish Investor in Recruitment Companies & talented Recruitment Individuals.

Kris believes that their support has been crucial to the early success:

“Having known Craig & Kris for some time and admired their drive, work ethic and commitment to high customer service we were delighted to enter into a venture with them under Clan Partners.

The relationship has worked fantastically well and we have been able to support Craig & Kris in their journey so far with support services such as QHSE Support, Gaining Accreditations, Financing and the implementation of cutting edge Systems & Software.  All of which allied to Craig & Kris’ expertise and enthusiasm is placing FinTech very well for future success.” – Steven Dunbar, Director at Clan Partners

Read the latest issue of the OGV Energy magazine HERE.