Celebrating 35 years of excellence in recruitment

In 2024, we at 1st Choice Staff Recruitment proudly celebrate 35 years of dedicated service in connecting people with opportunities across Bedford, Milton Keynes, Wyboston, Biggleswade, and Chester. This milestone is more than a number—it’s a testament to our unwavering passion for what we do, the trust of our clients and candidates, and the resilience and dedication of our incredible team.

A legacy rooted in people

When 1st Choice was founded, it began with a simple yet profound vision: to create a recruitment service where people always come first. From those early days, driven by ambition and a genuine desire to make a difference, we have grown into a trusted partner that businesses and job seekers alike rely on. Our journey has been defined by the shared commitment of our team—a group of individuals who bring their unique strengths, experiences, and personalities to the table every single day.

We fondly remember those early moments in our small Midland Road office, where every CV was carefully typed and hand-delivered, and the buzz of Friday afternoons when temps would come in to collect their payslips and share stories over a cup of tea. The warmth and camaraderie of those moments laid the foundation for the culture we cherish today.

Milestones that matter

Over the years, we have had the privilege of recruiting for an array of roles across numerous industries, from governance and healthcare to the high-energy world of Formula 1. Each placement represents not just a job, but a step toward someone’s dreams and a crucial building block for our clients’ successes. We are proud to have tackled recruitment campaigns of all scales, using tailored solutions to ensure that every role finds its perfect match.

Our long-serving team members, many of whom have been with us for over two decades, often share stories of candidates they placed years ago who now come back as clients, seeking help to grow their own teams. These full-circle moments are a reminder of the trust and relationships that have fuelled our longevity.

But our story isn’t just about professional achievements—it’s about community. Our commitment to giving back is woven into our culture, with charity days and local initiatives that encourage every member of our team to contribute to causes that inspire them. It’s these shared moments of outreach and support that remind us why we do what we do.

A culture built on connection and inclusion

At 1st Choice, we believe our true strength lies in our diversity. Every person in our team brings a different perspective, enriching the fabric of our workplace and enhancing our service. This value extends beyond our own walls, guiding how we help our clients build inclusive teams that foster innovation and growth. We know that when people of different backgrounds, skills, and experiences come together, amazing things happen.

We’ve seen firsthand the power of creating spaces where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to contribute. These beliefs are not just aspirational—they are the bedrock of how we operate, how we support our clients, and how we envision the future of recruitment.

Looking forward with gratitude and hope

As we celebrate 35 incredible years, we take a moment to look back with pride and forward with renewed purpose. The world of recruitment will continue to evolve, and so will we. Our promise is to stay true to our roots while embracing the innovations and opportunities that lie ahead.

To our clients, candidates, and team members past and present: thank you for being part of our journey. Your trust, partnership, and dedication have been the cornerstone of our success. We are excited to continue this journey together, forging new paths and creating brighter futures.

Here’s to the next chapter of connecting great people with great opportunities, with heart and purpose.