SmithCarey Ltd, Huntingdon (2026)

09/05/2025

🌟 Showcase Your Achievements on Your CV 🌟

In a competitive job market, it's not enough to list your responsibilities, it's about highlighting the impact you've made.

Instead of saying "responsible for sales", show the results:

✅ "Launched NPD that delivered £0.5m incremental sales in Year 1"
✅ "Grew distribution points in X retailer from 1,200 to 2,750 within 6 months"
✅ "Improved forecast accuracy from 72% to 88% for key customer accounts"

Details like these don't just tell us what you did, they show how well you did it. And that's what helps your CV stand out.

Recruiters and hiring managers are looking for candidates who can deliver results, so take time to reflect on what you've achieved and tell that story clearly.

Visit 🔗 smithcarey.co.uk if you'd like help shaping your next career move.

06/05/2025

📢 How can recruitment agencies help FMCG companies retain top talent?

Recruitment agencies play a crucial role in long-term retention by truly understanding both the client's culture and the candidate's career goals.

When the fit is right, turnover drops, and employee satisfaction rises.

But it doesn't stop at placement.

Providing ongoing support during the transition — from career advice to personalised coaching — helps new hires settle in, perform better, and stay longer.

At SmithCarey, we focus on building partnerships that last. If you'd like to learn more about how we can support your hiring needs, drop a comment or visit 🔗 smithcarey.co.uk.

01/05/2025

Flexible working patterns are here to stay 📈

Remote and flexible working are no longer perks, they're now expected. Companies that adapt will attract and retain top talent. Those that don't risk losing out.

Offering flexible working or home-based roles brings clear advantages:

🌐 Increased productivity
🔍 Access to a broader talent pool
✅ Higher employee satisfaction

It's not just about convenience — it's about meeting candidate expectations. Recent UK studies show that 72% of employees consider work-life balance a critical factor when choosing a job. Flexible, home-based working is a key driver of that balance, leading directly to stronger engagement, better retention, and improved performance.

If you'd like to learn more about how offering flexible working or home-based roles can strengthen your recruitment and retention strategies, feel free to get in touch.

🔗 www.smithcarey.co.uk

29/04/2025

Thinking about partnering with a retained recruitment agency? 🕵️‍♂️

Retained recruitment offers companies a true partnership, with high-level commitment and specialist talent acquisition.

Unlike contingency agencies, which may juggle multiple vacancies, retained agencies provide:

🗸 Exclusive focus on your roles
🗸 Deeper market insights and proactive search
🗸 Access to higher-calibre candidates through rigorous vetting

The result? A better chance of securing top-tier talent who fit your company culture and long-term goals.

Have you worked with a retained recruiter before? How did it compare to contingency recruitment?

If you'd like to learn more about the benefits of working with a retained recruiter, including reduced time to fill results, a higher CV-to-interview ratio, and longer retention rates, please get in touch.

🔗 www.smithcarey.co.uk

04/04/2025

Redundancy can be tough. I know, I've been there.

I was made redundant from an FMCG company I'd worked with for 13 years. It was a shock—and it hit hard. But it also gave me space to reset, reflect, and eventually carve out a new direction.

Now, as a recruiter, I speak to candidates every month who are going through the same thing. And I always remind them: this is one chapter, not the end of your story.

Here are some things I've learned—both personally and professionally—that can really help:

Ask for support as part of your redundancy package - Don't be afraid to request extras—like career coaching, upskilling courses, or CV support. Many employers are open to it, but you need to ask.

Take time to process it - Redundancy brings a wave of emotions—shock, anxiety, uncertainty. Talk it through with people you trust, or seek professional support. You don't have to carry it alone.

Set a daily routine - A simple structure can help keep you grounded. Mix job searching, exercise, learning, and downtime to keep your energy and motivation up.

Update your CV and LinkedIn - Reflect on your achievements and strengths. This is a great moment to clarify what you want next—and show the value you bring.

Stay open to learning - A short course or certification can boost your confidence and show future employers you're proactive.

Reach out to recruiters you trust - We're here to help, not just with jobs, but with advice, insight, and support. Don't hesitate to start a conversation.

Leverage your network - Let people know you're looking. You'd be surprised how often opportunities come through a quick chat or a message from someone who's worked with you before.

You've got this. A new chapter is waiting.

02/04/2025

Let's talk about ageism in FMCG. It's real. It's growing. And it's far too often overlooked.

Approximately 32% of the UK workforce is aged between 50 and 65. As a recruiter, I've seen first-hand how incredibly talented, experienced professionals are sometimes passed over, despite bringing huge value, insight and stability.

According to a 2023 CIPD report, nearly a third of UK workers over 50 have experienced age discrimination at work. That's a significant portion of the workforce being overlooked because of outdated perceptions.

The good news? I also work with some brilliant clients who do value experience—who actively seek out candidates with the depth, resilience and strategic thinking that only time in the industry can bring.

But there's still work to do. Here's how we can push for change:

- Foster inclusive hiring practices that value experience as much as ambition.

- Create mentorship programmes that pair seasoned professionals with younger team members.

- Promote lifelong learning at every career stage.

- Build policies that celebrate age diversity, not quietly side-line it.

Age diversity isn't just a moral imperative. It's a business advantage. Experience matters. Let's not waste it.

31/03/2025

What keeps candidates flocking to FMCG—even with a talent shortage?

I started my career in FMCG straight after completing my Food Science degree—and I've loved the industry ever since.

Although I no longer work in FMCG directly, I've spent the past 8 years recruiting senior talent into the sector. And I get why candidates are still drawn to it—despite a highly competitive market.

Here's what continues to make FMCG such an attractive place to build a career:

Career growth - FMCG moves quickly. Ambitious professionals thrive here, gaining hands-on experience across sales, marketing, and operations—often progressing faster than in many other sectors.

Innovation & creativity - From launching standout products to bold brand campaigns, the pace of change is constant. It's a brilliant space for people who like to think on their feet and make an impact.

Collaboration & culture - Teams in FMCG are typically close-knit, fast-moving, and full of energy. That shared purpose and team spirit is a huge draw—and one of the things I've always loved about the industry.

In short, FMCG offers challenge, variety, and the chance to be part of something exciting.

Hiring into FMCG or thinking about your next move? Let's chat—I'd love to help!

28/03/2025

Employee benefits are evolving—and fast.

In the FMCG sector, keeping pace with these changes is essential if you want to attract and retain the best talent. Over the past couple of years, there's been a noticeable shift in what employees truly value.

Here's a quick overview of the top trends we're seeing—and how FMCG businesses can respond:

Flexible working arrangements
- Remote work and flexible hours are no longer "nice-to-haves"—they're expected. Hybrid models offer people the best of both worlds and are fast becoming the norm.

Mental health support
- Access to counselling services, mental health days, and wider wellbeing programmes are now essential. When people feel supported, morale and productivity follow.

Career development opportunities
- Employees want to learn, grow, and progress. Clear development pathways and meaningful training make a huge difference to engagement and retention.

Inclusive benefits
- Benefits that reflect the diverse needs of today's workforce—like equal parental leave—help foster a more inclusive, modern culture.

Financial wellness programmes
- Support with budgeting, pensions, or financial education can ease stress and improve overall wellbeing.

FMCG businesses that adapt to these evolving needs will stand out in a competitive market. It's about creating a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and excited to stay!

26/03/2025

Phone interview coming up? Preparation is everything.

It's your first real chance to make an impression—so how you show up matters.

Having navigated (and coached others through) countless phone interviews, here are my go-to tips to help you stand out for the right reasons:

1) Find a quiet, comfortable space
No distractions, no background noise—just you, focused and ready to have a great conversation.

2) Do your homework
Research the company, the role, and the people if possible. What's their mission? What are their recent wins? Show that you care enough to come prepared—and tailor your answers accordingly.

3) Practice out loud
Run through common interview questions and answers. Speak clearly, and be mindful of your tone and pacing (recording yourself can help!). Confidence comes from knowing your story.

4) Have your notes handy
Keep your CV, the job description, and any key points in front of you. This helps you stay calm, focused, and ready to bring relevant examples into the conversation.

5) Ask thoughtful questions
It shows you're genuinely interested—and helps you assess if the role is right for you too.

Phone interviews can feel a bit unnatural, but with the right prep, you'll come across as confident, capable, and genuinely engaged.

24/03/2025

Hiring the right leader can transform a business. But finding them? That's the real challenge.

That's where a specialist recruitment partner comes in—and it makes all the difference.

At SmithCarey, we understand FMCG because we've been there. I spent 20 years working in commercial / supply chain roles across the FMCG sector before moving into recruitment. I know first-hand what great leadership looks like on the ground—and how much it matters.

From sales and marketing to supply chain and NPD, we don't just match CVs to job specs—we match people to businesses. Check culture fit. Do values match. What is the long-term potential. It's all part of the mix.

And we don't wait for great candidates to come to us—we go and find them. Many of the best leaders aren't actively looking, but they will move for the right opportunity. That's where our network and proactive approach give you the edge.

In a market where senior talent is in short supply, you need to get it right first time. That's what we're here for. Hiring for a senior role in FMCG? Get in touch—I'd love to help!

19/03/2025

🌟 Gen Z is Reshaping the Workforce! 🌟

Gen Z (up to 27 years old) comprises 25% of the UK workforce, bringing fresh perspectives, digital fluency, and new expectations for employers. How can we adapt to attract and retain this dynamic generation?

🔹 Authenticity & Purpose Matter
Gen Z values genuine company culture, inclusivity, and meaningful work. Highlighting real employee stories, fostering diverse workplaces and demonstrating a clear mission-driven approach can make all the difference.

🔹 Tech-Savvy & Digital-First
This generation expects seamless, mobile-friendly hiring experiences. From social media engagement to AI-driven recruitment tools and virtual interviews, investing in digital-first strategies is key.

🔹 Career Growth & Flexibility
Gen Z prioritises clear career progression, continuous learning and work-life balance. Offering mentorship, upskilling opportunities and flexible working arrangements will help attract and retain top talent.

The future of work is evolving—are your recruitment strategies keeping pace?

14/03/2025

🎯 Company culture is key to retaining talent 🎯

In the fast-paced world of FMCG, company culture isn't just a buzzword – it's the foundation of employee satisfaction and retention. When people feel valued and aligned with their company's values, they're more likely to stay, grow, and contribute meaningfully.

A strong company culture creates a sense of belonging and purpose. It promotes open communication, collaboration, and continuous learning – all crucial in an industry where agility and innovation are essential. Employees who feel part of a supportive and dynamic culture are more engaged, motivated, and committed.

Not only that, but a positive culture also reduces turnover. A recent CIPD report found that companies with strong cultures experience 30% lower turnover rates than those without. This saves businesses the significant costs of hiring and training, while ensuring continuity and stability within teams.

What are your thoughts on the impact of company culture? Share your experiences in the comments below or visit smithcarey.co.uk to see how we can help you build a stronger team.

SmithCarey Ltd

09/05/2025

06/05/2025

01/05/2025

29/04/2025

04/04/2025

02/04/2025

31/03/2025

28/03/2025

26/03/2025

24/03/2025

19/03/2025

14/03/2025

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Shortcuts

Share

Category