Two Decades of Vanilla Success

It all began with a simple idea: putting people first in recruitment. Twenty years later, Vanilla Recruitment stands as a testament to the power of building meaningful connections. As we celebrate two decades in business, we sat down with our Founder, Eloise, to look back on the journey, share the lessons learned, and explore what keeps her passion alive.

Why did you start Vanilla Recruitment?

“Before Vanilla, I worked in both high street and specialist recruitment agencies, and it felt like the industry was so focused on hitting targets that the real purpose—helping clients and candidates—was getting lost. I wanted to create a better experience, one where the process was less stressful for everyone involved. For clients, it’s about truly understanding their business, their culture, and their unique challenges so we can find the perfect match for their needs. For candidates, it’s about knowing what’s driving their career change and supporting them through what can be a very daunting time.

Starting Vanilla was my way of saying, ‘There’s a better way to do this.’ And here we are, 20 years later!”

What’s been the biggest challenge?

“The 2008/09 recession was a huge challenge, and then of course, Covid threw its own curveballs. During these times, demand for recruitment services dropped significantly, which really tests your resilience and financial planning. I’ve learned the importance of being efficient, having strong cash flow management, and working with clients who truly value what we bring to the table. These challenges shaped the way I run Vanilla today – focused on stability, long-term relationships, and being prepared for the unexpected.”

What makes Vanilla stand out in the recruitment industry?

“Niche specialisation is a big part of what sets us apart. We focus on Accountancy & Finance, Marketing, HR, and Office Support, which means we’ve developed deep expertise and strong networks within those areas. We also prioritise building long-term relationships with clients and candidates. It’s not about quick wins; it’s about trust and understanding their needs so we can deliver the best results.

Another key difference is our personalised approach. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all solution. Every client and candidate is unique, and we take the time to understand their goals, challenges, and what makes them tick. That’s how we create lasting matches.”

How has the industry changed since you started, and how has Vanilla adapted?

“The industry has changed dramatically since 2005, mostly due to technology and shifting expectations. AI and automation have made processes more efficient, and platforms like LinkedIn have transformed how we connect with candidates.

Candidates now expect more open and honest communication, and they’re drawn to companies with strong employer brands that align with their values. Work-life balance and flexibility have also become non-negotiables for many candidates, especially after Covid. Hybrid and remote working are now the norm, even within our own team.

On the client side, the demand for speed has increased. Companies want quick, efficient recruitment solutions, so we’ve invested in state-of-the-art technology and a CRM system that uses automation and AI. At the same time, clients want to work with recruitment partners they trust, which is why we prioritise long-term relationships and invest in our team’s development. Many of our consultants have been with Vanilla for over 10 years, which is something I’m really proud of.”

What motivates you to keep evolving Vanilla after 20 years?

“It’s the relationships we’ve built with our clients and candidates. To continue serving them effectively, we’ve had to adapt and grow alongside them. I’m passionate about staying at the forefront of industry trends and embracing new technologies—it keeps the work fresh and ensures we’re always offering the best possible service. Plus, I love what I do, and that passion fuels me to keep pushing forward.”

What’s a moment or achievement that makes you especially proud?

“I’m incredibly proud that Vanilla has been supporting businesses and candidates for 20 years-that’s a huge milestone!

One standout moment was signing a 10-year lease on our first office in Market Harborough. It felt like such a big commitment at the time, but it made Vanilla feel ‘real.’ Seeing the office come together with signage and branding was a moment of pride.

I’m also proud that we still work with one of our very first clients from 2005. That long-term relationship is a testament to the trust and value we’ve built over the years.”

What advice would you give to businesses looking to improve their hiring process?
“First, spend time defining exactly what you need in a role—it saves so much hassle later. Make your application process as simple as possible and keep communication prompt and clear throughout.

Think about diversity and inclusion; building a more inclusive workforce isn’t just the right thing to do—it also makes your business stronger. And don’t underestimate the importance of a strong employer brand. Candidates want to work for companies that align with their values and offer great employee experiences.

Finally, always be thinking about the future. Build talent pipelines and keep an eye on candidates who might not be right for today but could be perfect for tomorrow.”

What advice would you give to someone starting in recruitment today?

“Be ready to adapt because this industry is always changing. Learn to love the pace and embrace new technologies. Focus on building strong relationships and really understanding the people you’re working with—that’s what makes a great recruiter.

Resilience is key. There will be setbacks and rejections, but it’s all part of the process. Learn from them, keep a positive outlook, and celebrate the wins-big and small. Recruitment is challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding when you find the perfect match for a client and candidate.”

As we celebrate 20 years of Vanilla Recruitment, we’d love to bring the same passion, expertise, and personalised approach to your hiring or career journey. Whether you’re a business looking for the perfect fit or a candidate searching for the next step, let us show you how recruitment can be done differently. Get in touch today and let’s start your next chapter together!

Other pages of interest

For more useful information, news and resources feel free to look around our website and in particular our Client and Candidate pages including Client Journey, Candidate Journey, Training Courses, Case Studies, Client Resources, Candidate Resources and our regularly updated Blog.

We recruit throughout the East Midlands covering Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Rutland and the surrounding areas, especially Market Harborough, Lutterworth, Leicester, Corby and Kettering. We help people find their perfect job and match suitable job seekers with businesses looking to hire the best candidates across our four specialisms – MarketingAccountancy & FinanceHR and Office