Skipper Recruit

Operating in the HGV driving and logistics industry, Skipper Recruit has been through something akin to a rollercoaster since the agency was formed in April 2020. Based in Norwich, the agency has had to adapt to the impact of wider socio-economic issues, including Covid and Brexit, which had seismic consequences for the haulage industry in particular. A dearth of drivers pushed up wages, and the cost of running fleets skyrocketed in the face of rising fuel costs. From the outside looking in, it would appear to have been a brave move to start a recruitment business in this sector.

However, Skipper Recruit has successfully established itself as a leading driving agency on account of the team’s innate knowledge of the specific challenges facing both employers and drivers. Danny Skipper, the Founder, served in Afghanistan before spending fourteen years as a qualified HGV driver, which gives the business its unique insights into the industry.

With a national offering, Skipper’s commercial proposition is supported by ISO accreditations (9001 – 14001) and are a proud member of the Armed Forces Covenant, which supports those leaving the services to develop new careers; Skipper has achieved a Silver Award in their Employer Recognition Scheme for their contribution in employing ex-armed forces personnel.

From the outset, Skipper chose a rival umbrella firm to manage their payroll, but they were then contacted by Leo Pereira, Sales Director, on account of DASA’s flawless compliance credentials. Some of Skipper’s larger clients insisted that their contractors were paid via an FCSA or Professional Passport umbrella company, so DASA fulfilled this criterion perfectly. This allied to DASA’s competitive margin structures and the range of additional benefits available to drivers via the DASA Rewards app were also significant factors in Leo winning the business.

Lianne Dickerson, Skipper’s Senior Recruitment Consultant, highlighted the advantages of using DASA when she commented: “Quite apart from being cheaper for our drivers, using DASA means our drivers are not just treated as a number. The whole team in the office are very helpful, especially Kay and Donus, who are both fantastic. They always respond immediately should there ever be an issue and always make sure that everyone is paid on time, even when we are working to tight deadlines, such as over Christmas. They always go above and beyond to get the job done.”