Recruitment agency ethero has placed thousands of candidates in temporary and permanent roles, so it knows a thing or two about what makes a great place to work.

The company, which employs more than 50 staff across five offices in the West Midlands, aims to drive ethical improvements in the temporary labour market. It predominantly supports industrial and agricultural clients but has growing expertise in the commercial and technical sectors.

Many of its clients are operating in a competitive labour market, and the recruitment industry faces similar challenges. As a result, ethero is ensuring it stands out from the crowd to retain its staff and secure the best new talent. It prides itself on a work environment that's "vibrant and fun," with a culture that's centred on "employee happiness and wellbeing."

A new 'Rookie Recruiter School' gives trainees a 12-month training and development plan, including two pay reviews. Once they've graduated, they can take a recruitment qualification and have 12 months of one-to-one career coaching to support them to succeed.

ethero takes the time to listen to its staff, and their cost-of-living concerns have led to a specific allowance and a company-wide pay rise. Additional benefits include gifted company shares and increased mileage expenses.

And it's not just about the bottom line; it's about "creating bonds and lasting memories" through Wellbeing Wednesdays, Fun Friday activities and all-expenses-paid events such as Christmas parties and the 'etherocks' family festival with bands, food, drink and games.