The journey begins In the heart of Soho, Daniel Whomes founded Oyster with a simple focus: delivering specialist contract recruitment solutions to local government organisations across London.
The next generation joins Future CEO Sasza Bandiera joins Oyster as a trainee recruiter, beginning a journey that would help shape the company's future growth.
Expanding our expertise Oyster launches its permanent recruitment division, extending its specialist knowledge into private sector real estate and property markets.
Building for growth The Oyster Academy is launched, creating a structured pathway for developing future recruitment talent and providing the foundations for long-term growth.
A new chapter Following a significant business restructure and investment in support functions, Oyster enters a new phase of growth, professionalisation and leadership development.
Recognition for our culture Oyster achieves Investors in People Bronze accreditation, recognising its commitment to developing people and building a high-performing workplace.
Growing through uncertainty During the Covid-19 pandemic, Oyster chose to invest rather than retreat. The business increased headcount by 50%, launched new specialist disciplines and made no redundancies.
Investors in People Gold Later that year, Oyster was awarded Investors in People Gold, recognising its continued investment in people and culture.
Stronger than ever The business emerges from the pandemic stronger, with continued growth, investment in technology and an enhanced learning and development programme.
Developing leaders from within Robert Murray, who joined Oyster as a trainee in 2014, is promoted to Director of Permanent Appointments, reflecting Oyster's commitment to developing talent from within. Oyster is also recognised with multiple Best Companies to Work For awards.
Platinum status achieved Oyster is awarded Investors in People Platinum, placing it among a select group of organisations recognised for excellence in workplace culture and people management.
Industry recognition CEO Sasza Bandiera is named Recruitment Leader of the Year at the Recruiter Awards, recognising both his leadership and Oyster's continued success.
Industry recognition Oyster is awarded ED&I Initiative of the Year at the REC Awards, and ED&I Champion of the Year at the Property Week Inspiring Women awards.
Investing in the future Ali Wibroe, who joined Oyster as a trainee in 2016, is promoted to Contract Director, leading the contract division and becoming another example of Oyster's commitment to developing future leaders. Oyster also achieves ISO/IEC 27001 certification, the internationally recognised standard for information security management.
Recruiter Hot 100 Oyster achieves 69th place in the Recruiter Hot 100 awards across UK recruitment businesses.
Still growing Today, Oyster operates across 12 specialist recruitment practices, supports a network of more than 76,000 candidates and partners with over 1,175 organisations across the public sector, property and real estate markets. Driven by exceptional people, specialist expertise and long-term relationships, Oyster continues to shape the future of recruitment.
