C&C Search was founded with a rebellious spirit, a BIG ambition, and a vision of a different future for recruitment and training while leading the way for socially-conscious businesses.
Our multi-award-winning approach transforms organisations every day through the uniquely talented individuals we place.
How did it all begin?
I went through some big life changes, divorce, single motherhood and a health scare meant a big evaluation of my life and what ‘next’ would look like. I decided that I couldn’t represent a business where our values did not align and made the decision that the time was right to start the business.
What sets your business apart?
Oooo so much! I think we are very different from most recruitment companies! We are half way to B-Corp status, we are an all-female team of 26, we volunteer weekly with The Young Women’s trust, we are heavily involved in female pipeline projects, I speak globally using my platform to help women unlock and step into their infinite potential, we have wo many awards for our work to date!
What is the concept behind your business or the problem you’re solving?
We are able to recruit exceptional talent for our clients, we have three specialist teams hiring for Marketing, Communications & Events, People & Talent and PA/EA & Office support whilst providing wrap around training, development and market intelligence.
Where to next/What is your brand vision?
We are growing to 50 and in the process are going to create exceptional impact not just for our clients but for all the women we support with our return to work and coaching projects!
Lucy Chamberlain
Founder of
C&C Search Ltd
What do you feel passionate about/what drives you?
Innovation, equality of opportunity, DEI, potential, interiors, my family and Burmese kitten and so much more.
Share an example of early life that has shaped you?
I was sent to France at 10, not speaking the language and not then able to see my family for a year – it absolutely made me the resourceful and resilient person I am today.
Highlights of your business journey so far?
Being invited to No10! Flying to Australia for a speaking gig, winning the federation of small businesses Large Small business of the year 2023, surviving Covid.
Key lessons you have learned along the way?
I have learnt so many lessons – understand the numbers, lean into challenging conversations, take all decisions through the lens of your values, it’s ok to ask for help and build a wonderful network.
Best piece of advice you have received?
Nothing changes if nothing changes.
Advice to an aspiring entrepreneur or woman just starting her career?
To ask for help and seek mentorship, it takes a village!
What funding route have you chosen for your business and why?
We have self-funded so far…but looking for investment to continue growth.
Some of the challenges you have faced and how you overcame them?
Resilience, resourcefulness, connection and creativity have seen us through Brexit and Covid – there is always a way through!
Why is it important to support women-led business?
Without us standing shoulder to shoulder and lifting each other up where we can equity will always escape us.
60
Seconds
with
Lucy Chamberlain
My inspiration is...
to contribute to creating a fair and equitable world of work.
My greatest fear is...
loosing it all.
The most courageous thing I’ve ever done is...
speaking in front of 500 people.
Guilty pleasure?
blonde chocolate.
Mantra you live by?
feel the fear and do it anyway.
Female role model?
Michelle Obama.
Women-led brand you love?
Trinny London.
Top productivity tool?
Chat GBT, I am dyslexic so this is a godsend!