October 13th is National Own Business Day and with Summerley Recruitment just a couple of weeks old we asked MD Sam Hickman what it means for him to have his own business.
What does having my own business mean to me, by Sam Hickman
Summerley Recruitment, what does that mean to me? Well, it means lots of things… an opportunity, an accomplishment, and a very tiring and expensive few months!
Opportunity
With the current situation we all find ourselves in, there has been a real sense of the unknown and a constant concern about the future. The Catering & Hospitality industry was one of the hardest hit during the pandemic which affected thousands of professionals, some of whom will be lost to other industries forever.
When the idea of Summerley Recruitment first evolved, I wanted the business to be as useful and efficient as possible to the industry I have worked in, and been a part of, for many years. There are currently a huge number of Catering & Hospitality professionals in limbo between old jobs, new jobs and their future. I want Summerley Recruitment to be a welcoming bridge between candidates and clients, bringing them together to assist with the kickstart the industry so dearly needs.

With so many events cancelled, including weddings, festivals and sporting events, 2021 looks to be a huge year and should be welcomed with open arms by all the businesses affected by the shortcomings of 2020.
I want Summerley Recruitment to be there to ensure staffing requirements are supported as smoothly and efficiently as possible. We want our clients to focus on maximising their revenue rather than having to spend time worrying about the background admin and organisation of their workforce.
Accomplishment
Summerley Recruitment to me is most definitely an accomplishment. When I look at where I am currently I can’t help but think how hard I worked to gain the experience I now have, and the enthusiasm and drive to take it to the next level. I have been very lucky in the past and have worked with some amazing people who have all played a part in where I am today, in a position to start my own company which has always been a dream of mine.
Who knows how it’s all going to go, it could be great, it may not! But I know that I will give it everything I have, and am confident that I have what it takes to make it a success, which drives me forward every day.

Motivation
The last part kind of speaks for itself…
I’ve spent the summer of 2020 juggling four jobs and spending goodness knows how many hours to get the money behind me, to get the ball rolling and set up. The motivation of saving every single pound and knowing where it is going really got me through and made it a lot easier!
There are so many silly little things you don’t think about when starting a business but thanks to several seven-day weeks, they are all covered! There’s nothing more rewarding than having parcels being delivered every day, taking me closer to what was needed to finally be ready for day one.
It is a very exciting time, and scary too, but I can’t wait to get started.
We are committed to brighter futures and helping our candidates achieve their full potential. Contact us today to see how we can help your business or to get your next role, either by calling 01243 979735 or emailing hello@summerleyrecruitment.co.uk.

