My career so far...
At 19, I made the move from Durham to Sheffield to begin a 4-year university degree in Business and Human Resource Management.
After completing my degree, it was time to get a proper job, which led to the start of my recruitment journey at Office Angels, where I first met Craig. However, this was short-lived as a prospect client of mine, in a different industry, was looking for their first National Sales Manager. I introduced myself, armed with a 4-pack of doughnuts, and they offered me the very job I was trying to fill! (Never underestimate the power of a sugary doughnut.) I held that position for nine years, spending three of those working from home in Clapham, London.
By 2018, I had my sights set on a company making waves in the Digital Media and Music industry. The phrase “if you can’t beat them, join them” came to mind, so I did just that. I took on the role of Business Development Manager, a position I held until July 2024. This role strengthened my understanding of the broader corporate landscape, especially as the company partnered with global giants like Adidas and H&M and employed over 200 staff globally.
Why did you set up Ranson Barnes?
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit so when myself and Craig found ourselves in our favourite local pub, both supping on our favourite local pint of Abbeydale Brewery’s Moonshine, we realised we were both in exactly the same stage in life and with the hunger and desire to make our (and our families) lives better.
We were both ready to take full ownership of our days and how we spend our time by doing more of what we love, without distraction – Developing and nurturing relationships.
Any Pets?
Yes, we have a lunatic named Winne (The Pooch). She is our 5 year old working type cocker spaniel who loves nothing more than chasing squirrels in the woods and getting covered in grass seeds!
Come rain or shine, me and Winnie are up and out every morning for a lovely hike in the countryside – a great start to the day!
Interests out of work?
I’m known for being quite the hobbyist so have tried pretty much every hobby going, including Horse riding (where I loaned a 16’3 Clydesdale for a year), Fishing, Golf, Tennis and shooting to name but a few, but the constant throughout my life has been that of Motorbikes (sorry mum) – Motorbikes are far more than a hobby to me, but a way of life, and when I haven’t ridden a bike for a few days, I start getting withdrawal symptoms!
Beside the above selfish interests, I love nothing more than getting out into the peaks with my wife, daughter and dog, armed with a pocket full sweeties, looking for wildlife and the perfect walking sticks to trot along with.
Best place to unwind for a week?
Well, the days of romantic city breaks have taken a bit of a backseat since creating a human, so we tend to find ourselves in quirky wooden lodges (hot tub preferable) where there’s plenty of fun and activities for the little one. That said, Rome, Florence, Venice and Amalfi have been our favourite spots in recent years!
What’s my “go to” dish?
For me, I absolutely love making the Italian classic, the Risotto. Not only because you can mix it up with whatever you want – Porcini mushrooms is a good one – but you can stand and guzzle a bottle of red whilst lovingly stirring it!
I am however famed for my smoked haddock risotto – not because of its deliciousness, but for stinking out the office at my previous employment (on my first day, I must add) and was swiftly evacuated to the front door step to continue my lunch! A story my ex-colleagues still find hilarious to this very day!
What’s my go to tipple?
At home – an Australian Shiraz
In pub – a creamy pint – Moonshine, Stones or Guinness generally
Cocktail bar – a delicate Old Fashioned (or a Vermouth over ice if in a good Italian)
Why should you get in touch?
If you’re a job seeker, then I can be your perfect wingman! With a positive ‘can do’ attitude and great communication, we can work together to get you in front of the best business, suited to you.
If you’re a business interested in partnering with us, know that I’ve dedicated my entire career to building and nurturing strong business relationships by truly listening to your needs and delivering exactly what you’re looking for.
Not to mention, we will have good fun along the way too!
