Empowering Careers and Enriching Lives

A collaborative leadership approach that runs deep

A disillusionment with conventional recruitment firms was the impetus behind Somnium Recruitment’s focus on providing second chances and building a better future for all. “We’ve been there, trapped in a corporate maze where innovation was stifled by red tape,” co-owner and Director Chris Mapp recalls. “We knew we had to break free and make a real impact.”

Mapp broke free in 2018, founding the company with the goal of streamlining processes and removing bureaucratic hurdles to deliver efficient and reliable recruitment solutions. Gemma Downing joined as co-owner in 2021. Today, they lead the Eversholt, England-based contract and permanent recruitment firm as co-directors.

Transforming Potential into Progress

It’s that willingness to go above and beyond and provide individuals with opportunities to start anew that truly sets Somnium Recruitment apart among its staff. And it started with their very first hire: Business Projects and Transformation Manager Samantha Marshall, who joined in July 2021.

Marshall, who transitioned from the aviation sector, says joining Somnium has been the best professional decision of her life.

She knew her strengths and skills but was uncertain where she would fit within the company, making the move a leap of faith. “The company recognized my potential and welcomed me with open arms,” she shares “Frankly, I desperately wanted to help people like myself — people who know their worth but are seeking their niche to shine in the world.”

Shared Vision and Values

Mapp credits Downing for spearheading the remodelling of the company’s vision and strategy while instilling a set of aligned values, which has propelled Somnium to achieve 600% growth over the past three years.

“We now boast a well-defined vision and strategy,” Mapp says. “There are abundant growth opportunities for our candidates, clients, and employees. Trust me, we’re only just getting started.”

That’s the level of shared support ingrained within the organization, Marshall notes. “I yearned for personal growth [and] Somnium didn’t just recognize my value; they invested in my development,” she explains.

Marshall’s development journey with Somnium also included enrolling her in a year-long course with a life coach.

“How many companies prioritize employee development to this extent? That investment in my growth reaffirmed my value,” Marshall says.

High Standards Over Metrics

While other companies prioritize numbers, Somnium believes in upholding high standards across many operational aspects.

“We prioritize our employees’ well-being and professional advancement in both the short and long term,” Downing explains. “Recruitment can be arduous, and it’s imperative that individuals thrive in our environment. From the client’s perspective, we operate as an ethical recruitment business dedicated to doing things correctly. We don’t believe in cutting corners. Our ethos revolves around promoting growth rather than merely filling positions.

“Whether it’s identifying gaps in the market, conducting salary reviews, or hosting seminars on industry trends, we consistently provide value-added services to the clients,” she says.

For Talent Specialist Graham Bramwell, who joined Somnium Recruitment in January 2024, this attention to detail and adherence to high standards differentiates Somnium from the rest.

“We don’t simply engage with any organization.” he says. “When we collaborate, we ensure they not only align with our values proposition but also exemplify them, offering a quality of service that’s distinct from others and affording them the attention and respect they deserve.”

Ensuring Flexibility and Team Building

Another hallmark of Somnium is its deep-rooted focus on transparency, flexibility and collective well being.

“Recruitment is no easy feat, and our management recognizes this reality. They have gone the extra mile by establishing an open-door policy where every team member can connect with management, not just for discussions but to actively pursue their goals,” Marshall says.

Aligned with the devotion to promoting work-life balance, the company has implemented a one-day remote work policy, acknowledging the evolving landscape post-Covid. This initiative grants employees the rejuvenation they need while maintaining productivity.

“The post-Covid work environment has undergone a seismic shift, benefitting us as we’ve long advocated for remote work options,” Mapp says.

“Open dialogue and transparent communication have enabled our staff, many of whom are new to recruitment, to express their needs honestly,” he adds.

Despite this flexibility, Somnium maintains a strong sense of camaraderie through team-building activities and outings, instilling a

spirit of collaborative success that runs deep, resonating with all team members, not just the management.

“Success isn’t synonymous with ruthless competition. You don’t have to be cutthroat to be successful. One can be successful by uplifting others along the way,” Bramwell says.

More than Recognition: A Commitment to Progress

For Downing, being named a Best Staffing Firm to Work For is not just an accolade but a reaffirmation of Somnium’s dedication to its mission.

“This achievement further solidifies our position in the market and is a step toward building a brighter tomorrow.”