Our Story
The 1990's Founding and Early Growth
- 1991: Founding and Expansion: FPR Group was established in 1991 following the acquisition of Marda Appointments by Stephen Rodger (Managing Director), Edwin Cooke (Financial Director) and David Farrar (Sales Director) and focused on providing Catering, Hospitality and Industrial temporary staff.
A Unique Beginning: Upon acquiring the Marda Appointments office (an old large Edwardian town house), the founders discovered an elderly lady named Annie living in the premises. This unexpected situation added a memorable chapter to the company's early days and she cohabited with the business until she peacefully passed away.
- 1995: Rebranding and Growth: The acquisition of Office People in Chichester led to a rebranding and the establishment of specialised brands: Office People, Catering People and Industrial People. Sandra Bridle joined as the Operations Director during this period, overseeing significant growth. The company quickly expanded into the manufacturing sector winning key accounts and opened offices in Horsham, Portsmouth and Havant.
- 1996: Key Leadership Hire: Mark Foster (future CEO) joined the company during this time, marking the beginning of a significant leadership journey within the company.
2000's Expansion and Diversification
- 2000: Unified Identity and New Divisions: The company rebranded to First People Recruitment Ltd, unifying its various brands under one name. This decade saw the launch of FPR Tech, focusing on technical and engineering placements, a specialist Health & Social Care Division and a Food Production Division. The company secured significant contracts across Hampshire and Sussex expanding its service offerings.
- 2000-2003: Further Leadership Hires: Adele Walker (future CFO) joined the company in 2000 to work alongside Edwin Cooke bringing strong financial oversight. Paul Simpson (future COO) joined in 2003, forming an effective partnership with Mark Foster winning significant new business which saw the company successfully trade through the great recession.
2010's Rebranding and Recognition
- 2011: Cross-Divisional Growth: The company rebranded as FPR Group, enhancing cross-divisional business opportunities. Key leadership promotions included the appointments of Paul Simpson and Adele Walker as Directors in 2013.
- 2015: Management Buyout and Expansion: A successful management buyout led by Mark Foster (CEO) and Paul Simpson (COO) fueled significant growth, with the company doubling its turnover within four years. The company was recognised as one of the top 40 fastest-growing UK recruitment companies by Recruiter magazine.
- 2016 : New Bognor Regis Office: FPR Group continued its growth trajectory, opening a new office in Bognor Regis to expand its offering in the Food Sector.
2020's Continued Success and Expansion
2020-2023: Office Expansion and Financial Milestones: FPR Group moves its head office to larger premises at 132 Queens Road, Brighton. The company achieved record turnover and operating profit, marking a significant period of success.