Author: Molly Rush
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FMCG Interview Advice For Candidates
Continue ReadingInterview Advice for FMCG Candidates
Interviews allow employers to see if you’re a good fit for their role. But, they also give you an opportunity to see if their culture and job package is right for you!
From researching the company to getting feedback, make sure you construct a great first impression. Ace your next FMCG job interview by following this advice from our team of expert consultants in London.Preparation
“Remember, this is a two-way street. This is the perfect opportunity for you to find out more about the FMCG role, business, and company culture. Going prepared with some questions you want to know the answer to. Will not only help you make an informed decision, but help you come across as confident and engaged.” – Charli Harris, Recruitment Consultant
“Always have some questions prepared for the FMCG interviewer. These should be about the role and business, but also have one or two about them. Check out their LinkedIn beforehand and ask about a previous role, university, or why they joined the business. That tiny bit of prep will go a long way.” – Emma Forster, Divisional Manager – Drinks
“Always go to an FMCG interview with prepared examples to help the employer visualise the value you have added to the companies you have worked for. The best way to accomplish this is to provide them with an overview of the situation. Include what tasks or actions were performed, and, most importantly, the result or outcome. A tangible example can really bring your experience to life.”
“Be prepared to discuss what motivates you to apply for the position. Is it the business values, culture, their products or category? On many occasions, clients will go with the candidate who is the most enthusiastic or passionate, even if they don’t have all the skills required.” – Arbrie Hoxha, Divisional Manager – Consumer
“Research! Make sure you are familiar with the FMCG company by researching the size of the business, their website, where they sit in the market. A typical question in an interview is why do you want to work for the company. So, it’s always good to showcase your knowledge and this will help convey your interest to the interviewer.” – Rachel Sollis, Recruitment Consultant
Use your Recruiter
“Really use your recruiter to your advantage! They will have a good relationship with the line or hiring manager. Also they really understand what they’re looking for from a technical and personality standpoint. Ask them as many questions as possible. Then when you’re going into the interview, you feel like you already know who you’re meeting. If your interview process requires a presentation, send that to your recruiter. They can check it well in advance before sending it on to the client.
We have seen hundreds of presentations before, so we will be able to give feedback on the strengths and weaknesses. We know what the client will be looking for in those tasks. Even if it’s something as simple as a colour scheme change, so use our insight as much as possible!”– Shannon Milligan, Managing Consultant
Impression
“Think about first impressions. Make sure you are dressed appropriately for the job you’re interviewing for. Also make sure you use confident, accessible body language which will help the process and increase your self-confidence.” – Cristy Jennings, Recruitment Consultant
“Your mind will answer most questions when you’re calm and collected. You’re already confident in what you know, so relax.” – Faye Rillstone, Associate Consultant
“Be genuine. The interview process is as much about the FMCG company finding the right person as it is about the candidate finding the right company for them. Being true to yourself helps make sure that it’s the right fit on both sides.” – Rachael Carver, Head of Consumer
Culture Awareness
“Be aware of the company culture; make sure that you share the same values and not just the ideal skill set for the role. Ask questions directly related to your values to find out as much as you can. The correct work environment will allow you to achieve your goals and be more productive.” – Hannah Bugler, Associate Consultant
Feedback
“Pass on your feedback to your recruiter as soon as you finish your interview, whilst it’s still fresh in your mind. Plan to ask any questions that you might not have had the opportunity to ask during your interview. This also allows the company to see your interest in them.” – Katie O’Leary, Associate Consultant
Here at New Chapter we would love to help you find the best talent and achieve your goals. With experienced consultants across FMCG, Retail and more. Contact us today to discuss further!
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Romantic Valentines Cocktails
Continue ReadingValentines Cocktail Recipes
Are you looking for a cheap but romantic cocktail experience this Valentine’s Day? Set the mood for your dinner for two or galantine’s girls’ night with one (or more) of these delicious valentines cocktails. Even after Dry January, you can still enjoy the alcohol-free lifestyle by substituting the booze for your favourite no-and-low alternatives.
Have a browse and let us know which ones you fall in love with!
Rose Water Gin Cocktail
This refreshing drink is simple to make and perfect to begin the evening. With a light and refreshing taste, it’s sure to impress that special someone.
Love Bellini
For those looking to start the day with a little buzz, a Bellini can’t be beat. With it’s refreshing flavours and fruity taste, it’s the ideal drink for a morning of romance.
Arguably the easiest cocktail on this list, it can be made with any fruit combination. However, sticking to the love theme, strawberries and raspberries were definitley our top choice for valentines cocktails.
Pretty Pink Martini
The pretty pink martini is a classic; it’s simple to make and perfect for your Galentine’s Day party. Garnish with marshmellows or strawberries cut into hearts for an extra touch.
Strawberry Daiquiri
An easy-to-make but well-loved Valentine’s Day cocktail. With only four simple ingredients, this is the perfect drink to kickstart your romantic evening.
Love Shake
Boozy milkshakes have been a Valentine’s Day favourite for years, but they are also super easy to make!
Bailey’s has many variations of their classic Irish cream liqueur, so why not try strawberries & cream or red velvet in your own shake?
Here at New Chapter we have many roles across the drinks industry. With experienced consultants across FMCG, Retail and more, contact us today to discuss further!
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Employer Interview Advice
Continue ReadingInterview Advice for Employers
Are you an employer looking to improve your interview technique?
Our experienced consultants at Team Leeds have shared their must-do interview advice to ensure you get the most out of your time with each candidate.
Putting the time and research into each potential employee will benefit both of you as this is a two-way process. You must appeal to candidates just as much as you’re looking for them to impress you!
“Always try and make constructive notes on how the interview goes. As an interviewer can you deliver any constructive feedback to help a candidate improve how they interview next time? Even if they’re not right for your role. Make sure to deliver constructive feedback to give the candidate a positive experience with your company” – Luke McDonnell, Managing Consultant
“In a candidate short market, don’t close yourself off to candidates who may not be the perfect candidate on paper. Can you look at ways to develop a candidate that ticks most of your boxes? Would this development plan be an attribute of attracting a candidate over their other opportunities and increasing staff retention in the long run?” – Jessica Kaur, Associate Consultant
“I’m pretty sure you’re looking to invest in the right person and have that person stick around for a while, so offer them what they deserve. Don’t lowball, you want them to join feeling valued.” – Lauren Milner, Senior Consultant
“Try to keep minimal time between 1st, 2nd and 3rd stages as good candidates tend to be off the market much quicker than the average candidate. By reducing this lead time, you maximise your chances of bringing this candidate onboard.” – Harry Toole, Recruitment Consultant
“Remember this is a two way process, if you like the candidate you’re interviewing don’t assume the feeling is mutual. They may have numerous other opportunities and therefore make sure you sell your business and the opportunity”– Mike Lowery, Managing Director
“At the moment it is very much a ‘candidate market’. Urgency is paramount as most candidates we speak to at the moment are in multiple processes or being approached daily, so if you like a candidate then please progress as quickly as possible so you don’t miss out on your preferred person.” – James Howarth, Senior ConsultantHere at New Chapter we would love to help you find the best talent and achieve your goals. With experienced consultants across FMCG, Retail and more, contact us today to discuss further!
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FMCG Drinks Trends in 2023
Continue Reading2023 Drinks Trends
It’s the start of a new year and most importantly, the beginning of fresh drinks trends. Many factors will affect the consumption of alcohol, and although we can never predict the future… we can have fun trying!
So dive into our predictions for the top trends this year with our Divisional Manager – Drinks, Emma Forster. With no and low alternatives and canned cocktails taking over, consumers will continue to be mindful during the cost of living crisis.
More predictions include
Rise of Tequila
Tequila became a go-to drink for many last year as celebrities promoted their own tequila brands such as Kendall Jenner’s, 818. With the growing appeal of margaritas, quality tequila is one to watch in 2023.
TikTok Takeover
Of course TikTok, the most popular socical media platform in 2023, will keep getting bigger. Now it has become a source of world news, trends and much more. With a massive influence on the drinks industry, it’s the place to find new cocktail recipes and new product releases.
So to sum-up, drinks trends are constantly evolving. Driven by changing consumer tastes, preferences, and lifestyles. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in health and wellness. This has lead to an increased demand for low or no-alcohol beverages, as well as plant-based options. The rise of the craft movement has also influenced drinks trends. Many consumers now seek unique, artisanal offerings that showcase quality ingredients and innovative combinations.
Additionally, sustainability and environmental consciousness are becoming more important to consumers. This results in a shift towards eco-friendly packaging and production methods. Finally, technology is also playing a role in drinks trends. The use of augmented reality and other digital experiences to enhance the consumer experience along with social media.
We have many roles available in the drinks industry, either browse our website vacancies or contact us on info@newchapter.co.uk
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Most Common Interview Questions
Continue ReadingHow to Answer the 10 Most Common Interview Questions
January and February are the most popular hiring months. Therefore you need to know how to answer the most common interview questions. Many companies aim for new goals and need fresh talent to achieve them.
Interviews can create a high-stress and an anxiety-induced setting, but a little practice goes a long way. Whilst we can’t guarantee what your employer will ask, put yourself ahead of the competition by preparing your answers in advance.
Below is our guide to the top 10 most common interview questions and the techniques you should use to answer them.
1. Tell me about yourself.
Of course, the classic start to an interview, with an open-ended question. To combat this, aim to tell a story about a relevant experience that led you to the profession or your educational background.
Mention your training and passion for the industry, allowing the employer to get a good first glance into how you fit the role.
2. What are your weaknesses?
Not only is this the most dreaded question, but it’s one of the most popular questions interviewers ask.
Normally used to determine self-awareness, so aim to choose a flaw that will not hinder or prevent you from your success in the role. Include a real example of how you’ve worked to improve or combat an issue. Your employer wants to see you working hard to overcome these weaknesses instead of them holding you back.
Examples could be that you have difficulty delegating, are detail-oriented, lack experience (entry-level), struggle to present, and multitask too much. All these allow you to expand and explain your plan to improve this weakness.
3. What is your greatest strength?
A question that’s almost always asked to determine your confidence and qualifications for the role. Don’t be too modest and ensure you sell yourself by truly believing you’re the best candidate for the job.
When answering make sure you tell a story and draw from personal experiences to show off your attributes.
4. Have you applied to other roles?
Employers use this question to discover your genuine interest in the role. They may want to know how far you are in the hiring process with other companies, meaning honesty is the best policy.
Avoid going too far into detail about other applications but do mention, if you have applied to other vacancies, that this role is the one you’re most excited about.
5. What are your salary expectations?
Before you apply, you should research the expected salary for your ideal position. Employers only use this question to ensure you fit their expectations and budget for the role. Yet an open-ended question like this can put you on the spot.
The key is to ensure you aren’t too specific and to allow room for negotiation. Make sure to aim higher than you would like, as it’s easier to negotiate down but don’t bring this up without a prompt from the interviewer. Asking a question like this too early can harm your chances with the company.
To work out your salary benchmark you can use our free FMCG salary guide now!
6. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
This BIG question gives you the ability to explain your career goals in more detail. They want to find out if your five-year plan fits alongside theirs but also if you plan to commit to the company. So, when they ask this, they are saying, ‘What are your career goals in this position?’
Keeping your answer vague is the best choice, yes vague…! This is the ONLY question you want to prepare with a bland response. Talk about how you want to develop yourself as a professional and how you can see the role helping you achieve that. It should NOT include any hints towards leaving, owning a business, or simply stating ‘I don’t know’.
7. Why are you the best person for the job?
With this question, prepare to explain and advocate for yourself that you’re the ideal candidate.
A confident, concise response describing your experience and what you have to offer is key. Although, be sure your answer stays in line with the company’s values. Cater this reply to each separate role so you can show you are the perfect applicant every time.
8. Why are you leaving your current role?
This is a hard one to answer, with employers wanting to know if you left your previous job for genuine reasons.
Keep it positive, even if your departure was under difficult circumstances. For this, a direct response is best but ensure to imply your plans and give insight into what you’re looking to get out of your next role.
9. How do you handle stress and pressure in the workplace?
Be careful and avoid claiming you never feel pressure or experience stress. Instead, the best way to tackle this question is by acknowledging previous stressful situations and explaining how you dealt with them.
Examples of how you coped in high-pressure settings are more beneficial to employers than the short ‘I don’t get stressed’ response.
10. Can you explain this gap in your employment history?
Everyone has stages in their lives where their plans change, or they decide on a different path.
Avoid over-sharing and offer explanations to any queries your employer may have. Be sure to highlight any new skills you gained from your time away from the workplace.
Whilst we can’t guarantee these questions will appear in your interview. Our next advice would be to talk to an industry specific consultant, as they will be aware of typical questions that may arise.
We wish you the most success in your interview and if you’re still looking for that dream role.
Explore our current live vacancies or speak to our consultants below. -
Dry January Alcohol Alternatives
Continue ReadingDry January Alcohol Alternatives
For those passing up the alcohol and skipping the hangovers this January, try indulging in the best no and low-alcohol alternatives.
Whether you want to kick off the new year with a detox or save cash after an expensive Christmas, you may or may not have thought about trying Dry January.
Whatever your stance is, you’ve heard of it, with the low-alcohol market exploding in recent years. We have curated a list of our best recommendations to help those ditching the alcohol in 2023…
BEERS
A selection of the best 0.0% and 0.5%, no and low alcohol beers.
CIDERS
Kopparberg
If you’re a fruity cider lover, try the alcohol-free Kopparberg mixed fruits non-alcoholic cider. It’s tasty, super fruity and sweet whilst containing 0% alcohol.
Thatchers
For a typical British apple cider, Thatchers Zero is a great alcohol-free alternative. It’s a golden, medium dry cider, crafted using a selection of apples including Dabinett and Somerset Redstreak to provide full body.
WINES
Red
0%riginal
Vibrant ruby colour, blackberry and raspberry aromas with a slight spiciness. Fresh palate with woody notes, well-balanced tannins and a medium finish.
Rose
Torres Natureo
Raspberry colour with soft coppery highlights and a delicate cherry jam aroma. Smooth, fresh, luscious on the palate, with undertones reminiscent of sour candy.
White
Darling Cellars
A light yellow sauvignon blanc with green tint in colour, flavours of ripe tropical fruit, yellow peaches and gooseberries, complimented by a fresh acidity.
Sparkling
Real Drinks
A non-alcoholic alternative to champagne & sparkling wine.
Made by naturally fermenting exquisite loose-leaf teas over many weeks.
MOCKTAILS
Your favourite cocktails, without the alcohol content!
SPIRITS
Do you know someone who loves citrus-flavoured drinks? This zesty, citrus blend is made using three types of Mediterranean Orange, Ginger, Lemongrass & Lemon peel, a great non-alcoholic alternative.
Clean & Rhubarb is a hangover-free gin, bursting with fruity aromas of London dry gin, rhubarb and red berries. Enjoy notes of fruity rhubarb, juniper, and citrus with a subtle hint of coriander, mint and cinnamon.
Lyre’s
White Cane Spirit captures the essence of a gently aged white rum with flavours that are distinct and contemporary. Oak and sugar cane provide the platform for the marzipan, orange and coconut to shine, rounded off with a light, peppery finish.
APERITIF
Dive nose-first into wild herbal aroma, followed by a cool wave of zest and spice, before kicking back with lasting bittersweet citrus in Ruby Aperitif.
Here at New Chapter we have a selection of amazing consultants who are passionate about the drinks industry.
If you’re interested in a career change, please get in touch!
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Beat the New Year Blues
Continue ReadingBeat the New Year Blues
Happy New Year, here are some helpful steps to avoid those New Year blues!
Most people start the new year on a natural high after a relaxing festive period and the idea of new beginnings. As we continue further into January, the Christmas decorations return to the attic, and the work-to-do list gets progressively longer.
Try something new
If you’ve always longed to start ice skating or painting workshops, now is the perfect time to learn a new skill. Taking up an extra activity or sport can top the list of things to accomplish in a new year, and the challenge can be extremely rewarding. Yet also intimidating and short-lived, so ensure you start 2023 looking forward to fresh activities with a goal in mind.
Ensure you get enough sunlight
Have you ever linked your mood to the lack of sun? Well, it’s a good idea to start, as a common reason for the January Blues is lack of sun exposure. Sunlight increases the release of hormones such as serotonin and melatonin. Serotonin is associated with boosting mood and helping you feel calm and focused. Melatonin is responsible for helping you sleep. Low serotonin levels create a higher risk of seasonal affective disorder, a form of depression triggered by the changing seasons.
To avoid this, start by taking short winter strolls or increasing your level of exercise throughout the winter period.
Avoid those unrealistic resolutions
Often overly ambitions resolutions lead straight to the January blues. Start with baby steps and set yourself a small goal to achieve each month. Being realistic but still moving in the right direction helps to achieve your end target, without experiencing burn out.
Take a mental break
For many, Christmas can be an incredibly stressful time. With so many preparations, no wonder everyone is burnt out by February.
To avoid this, take time and dedicate an entire weekend to yourself. This could be a venture to a luxury weekend getaway or something simple like a fresh hair-do. Ensuring this time for yourself will allow you to enter 2023 with the correct mindset.
Change career
If the dread of returning to work overlooked the excitement of a new year. Maybe your first step in 2023 is considering a change in company or career path altogether. We spend a lot of our time in the workplace, so ensuring you enjoy what you do is extremely important. Continuing in a position that leaves you unsatisfied, can be the largest contributor to the January blues.
Here at New Chapter, we can help you, with many live vacancies on our website.
Get in touch with our team of incredible consultants to discuss your options.
Let us guide you into the new year, starting a new chapter. -
Quick & Easy Festive Treats
Continue ReadingQuick and Easy Festive Treats
If in the midst of last-minute shopping, you forgot all about dessert…
Take the stress out of baking this Christmas with these easy-yet-impressive festive treats. Whether you’re after fun cookies to decorate with the kids, or full-on showstoppers, we’ve got all your baking needs covered!
Are you interested in jobs in this industry?
Here at New Chapter we have a selection of amazing consultants who are passionate about the FMCG industry. They spend each day helping individuals start new chapters within many sectors.
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New Year, New Career
Continue ReadingNew Year, New Career
As another year draws to a close, it’s not uncommon to start thinking about a new career and goals looking forwards.
Often the ‘new year, new you’ mentality takes over with many saying ‘next year I’ll sort that out’. This increases the amount of job seekers flooding the market in January and rises the level of competition. However, the steps you take now can significantly increase your chances of securing your dream role in the new year.
We have compiled 5 tips to help you prepare yourself before the new year job surge;
1. Clear out and update your social pages
Get ahead of the game before you start applying and update your social media profiles.
It isn’t uncommon for employers to view social platforms when assessing candidates. In fact studies have shown 70% of employers utilise the results to decide whether to move to the next stage. LinkedIn is a useful tool when job searching as many recruitment companies use the platform to find new candidates. Therefore, ensure first and foremost you have a profile. Secondly, make sure it is up to scratch and filled with as much detail as possible. Make the most of this platform with the tools and certified courses available online.
2. Chat with a recruiter
Speaking to a specialist recruiter in the industry can not only help you understand your options for salary, skills, and roles. It can also increase the potential range of more senior positions. Whilst many jobs are advertised on public platforms. The higher salary, senior roles may only be found through recruitment agencies. Utilise them to help you market your CV to the right employers. You can then increase your exposure and save time.
Here at New Chapter, we cover all sorts of roles across FMCG and Retail. Get in touch with one of our consultants today to discuss what you are looking for and explore potential roles.
3. Stay open minded
Having a flexible attitude toward your job search can expand your range of opportunities. It can often be a challenge but it is always worth considering a change of location or even career path, when searching.Whilst having a clear goal for your career is very important, and never a bad thing. Making sure to remain open minded and flexible can help lead you to the perfect role. For example, it can be easy to disregard a company’s culture if the role sounds perfect. But looking for a work environment that reflects your personal values will be more beneficial for your happiness in the long-term.
4. Beat the new year rush
With many feeling the back-to-work blues after the festive period, the level of competition heading into the new year is high.
Many don’t realise that December is a great time to start a job search, most employers keep a clearer work calendar around Christmas and spend time pre-planning for January to start the year with fresh talent and goals – so it is a great time to get yourself in front of an employer!
Candidates tend to postpone their searches until the new year but plan to leave current roles before that, for a longer break over the holidays or for a fresh start in January. So, take advantage of this key time in the year and get ahead of the competition!
5. Consider your long-term goals
Use the festive period to analyse your career goals, where do you want to be in the next five years? If you’re not on track to achieve this, what can change to ensure you get there?
Every role shapes your career so prepare yourself for interviews, put together a winning CV and explore ways to increase your skill set to ensure you can achieve that dream!
We would love to help you through each step of your career journey, all the way to landing that perfect role. Explore the live roles on our website now and chat to one of our consultants about your long-term goals.
With a wide range of exciting opportunities across FMCG and Retail, there is plenty of new avenues for you to explore and consider. Whether that be finding the perfect new company to be a part of or taking a bigger step by looking into a complete career change, what better time than the new year!
Subscribing to our job alerts or simply following us on social media, might be the difference to secure that role you’ve always dreamt of. With many vacancies going live each week, now is the perfect time to be looking for a new challenge.
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Gift Guide Round Up
Continue ReadingUltimate Gift Guide Round up for Every Personality
Still need help from a gift guide?
Need a few stocking fillers?
With the festive season in full swing, last minute panic buying for different occasions has begun (although you still have time to avoid the big day panic!). If you’re stumped for ideas this festive season, we’ve compiled a gift guide to help steer you in the right direction. Specially selected unique and fun gifts for every personality!
Time to take your gift ideas up a notch…
1. Best for the Forgetful Friend
An AirTag is a great gift for those friends, coworkers and family who spend their whole lives asking ‘have you seen my..?’
2. Best for the Tiny Home Dweller
Buying for someone with little appliance space or just an obsession with cute mini objects, a Mini Waffle Maker is the perfect gift!
3. Best for the Adoring Dog Owner
Everyone knows someone who is dog obsessed, why not buy them a matching jumper set, perfect for those Christmas family photos.
Buy now from Spark Paws for £40 (human hoodie) & £18 (dog hoodie)!
4. Best for the Bake-Off Wannabe
Buying for a baking fanatic? Why not get them a Cake Pop Making Kit, hopefully they will supply you with endless cake in return!
5. Best for the Adoring Cat Owner
What’s not to love about cats in Jumpers! For that cat obsessed friend, get them a Christmas Cat Tea Towel from a small business.
Buy now from Not on the Highstreet for £12!
6. Best for the Foodie
A gift that’s always a safe bet, is chocolate. Why not go the extra step and buy them fancy Natalie Belgian Praline penguin chocolates!
7. Best for the Plant Parent
If the person you are buying for is that skilled they can keep a plant alive for longer than a week (unlike many of us), why not buy them this stylish hanging basket to add to their house plant collection.
8. Best for the Party Animal
Who doesn’t love a fairy light, or even better, cocktail fairy lights! Support a small business and gift some Margarita Cocktail LED Lights, to help jazz up their next party (or even just the house all year round!)
9. Best for the Heating Hater
You could gift a blanket hoodie to anyone, not only is it simply a great gift but it comes with the extra benefits of reducing office heating wars and might even help toward saving on the heating at home too!
10. Best for the Gamer
Does anyone really need a Tiny Arcade Machine? Of course they do, and its the perfect secret santa gift for any gamer!
11. Best for the Biscuit Obsessed
Don’t think twice when gifting a Cookie Warmer Mug, perfect for everyone, especially at this time of year!
12. Best for the still no idea what to buy you
We have given you our top ten, but your still stumped. Who wouldn’t love a pair of socks with your face all over them?! (or maybe just stick to something safe like a lottery ticket)
Buy now from Funky Pigeon for £14.99!
Here at New Chapter, Team London had their festive afternoon last week where we shut our laptops for the afternoon and had some fun.
So, the panic buying for our consultants in London is over, with a very successful secret Santa complete – what even is an office Christmas without one? To see more of the day and what we got up to check out our Instagram Reel!
Thank you for taking the time to read our blog, we hope it can help you out this December.
Why not get yourself the extra present this year of a new job?
Check out our website to search our live job vacancies now!
Or
Get in touch for a chat so we can learn about you and what you want out of your career.
0845 200 741
info@newchapter.co.uk
