Longton man goes from trainee to managing director of recruitment firm in just 14 years

Richard Freye with son Arthur and Chris Musgrove with son Harry — Richard with son Arthur and Chris with son Harry

A Longton man has been appointed as Managing Director of a Preston-based recruitment firm, just 14 years after joining the company as a trainee.

Chris Musgrove started at Service Care Solutions in 2007 as a Trainee Recruitment Consultant. He is moving into the MD position due to the company’s founder Richard Freye stepping down.

Richard, who lives in Fulwood, started Service Care Solutions from his back bedroom in 2005.

The Starkie Street firm, which supplies staff nationwide across a range of sectors, has grown to employ 100 people and turned over £41.7m in 2019-20.

Richard said he realised early on that Chris had the potential to one day become MD.

Richard, who will remain involved as Chair, said: “I feel that now is the right time to step away from my role as MD. I am incredibly fortunate to have found someone that I have total confidence in to take over the position.

“Not too long after Chris started, having recognised his potential, I made him a promise that, one day, he would become the MD of Service Care Solutions.

“He has the knowledge, mindset, skills and emotional intelligence that will take the company to the next level. It is truly a great moment in my life to be able to hand this role over to someone with such integrity and aptitude.”

Speaking about taking on the day-to-day running of the company, Chris said: “It is a real privilege to have been part of what we have achieved over the last 14 years.

“I owe both Service Care Solutions and Richard a tremendous amount and will be forever grateful for the opportunity I was given.

“It is an honour to pick up the mantle and continue this incredible journey.”

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