A SPECIALIST HR consultancy based in Edinburgh has reported that it has benefitted from Scotland’s booming tech sector, seeing a growth in revenue, its client base and headcount last year.
Purpose HR provides commercial HR advice and practical support to early stage and high-growth investor-backed businesses, including technology, engineering and life sciences startups.
The HR firm recorded year-on-year revenue growth of 50% in 2019, while growing its client base by 20% and upping staff numbers at its Edinburgh headquarters.
Lisa Thomson, CEO and founder, said: “Scotland continues to be a hotbed for startups and innovation and we’ve seen that positively impact the business over the last twelve months.
“At the same time, there remain challenges in attracting and retaining talent, ongoing uncertainty around Brexit and that has led to more companies recognising the value of investing in a strong, inclusive employer brand approach.”
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The company has also announced that it has appointed Gary Deans, a former KPMG partner, as its board advisor.
Deans holds over 35 years of experience around advising privately held businesses, and is expected to help to shape Purpose HR’s business strategy and to identify areas for growth.
He said: “I am delighted to be joining Lisa and the team.
“The business has established a strong brand and reputation in the tech, engineering and life sciences sectors with a focus on delivering excellent service. It is an exciting time and I am looking forward to being part of Purpose HR’s vision and supporting the business with its continuing growth.”
Thomson added: “Gary brings expertise of running a consultancy business at scale and his financial expertise and track record supporting high growth businesses, in addition to his focus on values and ethos, are well aligned to our purpose-driven approach.”
The firm secured its first engagements outside the UK in 2019, and planned activity for the year ahead includes further international growth – though Thomson says that Scotland will remain its “primary focus”.
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