I have received many calls in recent weeks from talented people in the retail design and marketing industry who have lost their jobs. I suspect the number will increase – and we know there are relatively few new opportunities in the sector as firms look to find their way through this year.
This has always been an important sector for bfpeople – ever since Brian Ford Powell established BFP Executive Recruitment 30 years ago to work with the burgeoning POS design and manufacturing industry in Leicester. I acquired BFP in 2012 and a lot has changed – not just the name.
We now do much more than recruitment, and work with many different industry sectors. But POS and retail design is very dear to our heart. And we know there are companies who are finding it tough – as well as others needing to hire people but wary of the cost. So, I want to give something back in these difficult times so that individuals and companies in the sector can benefit.
I have therefore created a LinkedIn Group to support individuals and firms in the sector. I am inviting anyone who is comfortable promoting their availability for work to join. I am also inviting companies that have job opportunities to promote them there and to contact group members direct about their requirements. We are charging no introductory fees for this – simply facilitating the chance to make introductions, network and fill jobs.
I know LinkedIn Groups aren’t exciting. But they are designed to be a “place for professionals in the same industry or with similar interests to share content, find answers, post and view jobs, make business contacts, and establish themselves as industry experts.” So, I think, for now at least, it’s the perfect vehicle to provide a place of support, advice and opportunity.
The Group is open to employers and anyone working in the retail design and marketing field – this includes for example, but is not limited to, POS/POP, retail design, fit-out and shopfitting, visual merchandising and installation.
Whether you are, or are looking for, creatives, project managers, account managers, fabricators, estimators or other specialists you are welcome to get involved. And please pass the message on to anyone you know – individual or employer – who might be able to make use of this.
bfpeople will moderate the group and support where necessary. Any introductions made via the group are free of charge and do not come through bfpeople – please do your own due diligence, whether you are a potential candidate or an employer.
Please get involved and let’s help support this important industry.
Note for employers:
There are no fees payable for promoting jobs or hiring people you contact direct through the group. If you want to advertise something anonymously – you may be replacing someone or launching a new product/service – or have a specific search requirement, then we will always be happy to help and discuss an agreeable fee rate. And we have other services (including psychometric assessment, coaching and leadership development, outplacement and career coaching for people leaving your business) that may be of interest to you now or in the future, then we will be happy to discuss how we can work with you for an appropriate fee.
Even if you’re not hiring, please join the group and contribute to the discussion. I have no doubt your support and advice will be invaluable for those members who are looking for their next role.
