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Former Dragons’ Den entrepreneur backs Newcastle recruitment startup

Well-known British entrepreneur, and former Dragons’ Den investor, James Caan has launched his first venture in the North East by backing an upcoming recruitment firm, specialising in the tech sector.

Investing expertise and a six figure sum into the business, James will act as chairman of Elitesoft Group, a Newcastle-based startup which was founded at the end of 2015.

The brainchild of recruitment professionals Laurent Halimi, who hails from the south of France, and locally born and bred Andrew Robinson, the company has already turned over a quarter of a million pounds.

Now backed by James, the entrepreneurial duo Laurent and Andrew are accelerating their growth plans, which first sees the opening of a new office in London, Chelsea, to accommodate the expansion of the business’ European team.

Closer to home, Elitesoft Group has vowed to create ‘a huge number of opportunities’ in Newcastle, for both experienced professionals and the hundreds of graduates within the city.

James Caan said: “I am delighted to lend my support and advice to a business as innovative and forward thinking as Elitesoft group.

“The opportunity to drive employment and highlight great talent in the North East is much needed, and I believe Elitesoft Group will execute this superbly.

“Elitesoft are definitely one to watch, and I am certain this niche sector will benefit hugely from a new, high caliber recruitment business providing impeccable recruitment solutions.”

Founders Laurent and Andrew are passionate about growing a business where staff can earn big salaries, whilst maintaining a life outside of work - often a view of the industry.

They explained: “Some of our competitors have, unfortunately, created an impression locally that all recruitment firms are based on long hours, a dog-eat-dog mentality and not having a life outside of work. That might be true for them, but it’s something we don’t believe in.’

With the support of James Caan and his investment team, the duo aim to grow their headcount to over 100 consultants in the next 4 years whilst maintaining an ethos which they believe to be fresh to the industry.

They added: ““At Elitesoft Group, we know that people work to live and not the other way round. We want to help our Consultants to achieve success in the workplace, be specialists, and enjoy the rewards that brings outside of the office.”

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