Shropshire Chamber of Commerce chief executive Ruth Ross has cut the ribbon to officially open a new local recruitment service.

Harper Adams University has opened a new Unitemps franchise, offering recruitment services for part-time, temporary, and graduate jobs.

The official launch ceremony was held at the university’s base in Telford town centre’s Station Quarter, at The Quad.

Speaking before cutting the ribbon to declare the service open, Ruth told invited businesses that the service aligned with the Chamber’s vision to help businesses succeed, to retain talent locally, and to create a more resilient and prosperous Shropshire economy.

She said: “I see every day how vital it is to connect local talent with local opportunity. Businesses consistently tell us that recruitment and skills shortages remain among their biggest challenges – especially across engineering, agri-tech, food production and the digital economy.

“Through the work we’re leading on the Local Skills Improvement Plan, and through regular insights from our Quarterly Economic Survey, we know how strongly employers are calling for practical solutions to these challenges.

“They need accessible routes to skilled people, and young people need clear pathways into quality jobs. Unitemps Harper Adams is a brilliant example of how we can turn that evidence into real, on-the-ground action.”

Unitemps offers greater access to job opportunities and work experience, with local and national employers, giving jobseekers a head start in securing relevant work in their chosen fields.

“The opening of a Unitemps franchise at Harper Adams will further strengthen the university’s award winning employability and career development offer for students and regional communities”, said Al Dawes, the university’s director of business engagement.

“This collaboration further reinforces our commitment to providing students with real-world experience and the skills needed to thrive in their careers.

“We are confident that, by enhancing employability, this new initiative will contribute to the long-term success of our students and local jobseekers.”

The partnership is designed to offer a seamless experience for students, including an easy-to-use online platform for job searches, as well as dedicated career advisors to help guide students throughout their journey.

With a focus on local and regional employers, students will have the opportunity to apply for roles that are closely aligned with their academic studies and future aspirations.

Pictured: Ruth Ross cuts the ribbon to declare Unitemps Harper Adams open, watched by Telford & Wrekin Council chief executive David Sidaway, Harper Adams vice chancellor Professor Ken Sloan, and Unitemps branch manager Jenice Forde