Staff at tech recruiter Optimus Search place candidates in digital, data and life sciences jobs. Led by Co-Founders and brothers Neil and Nigel Livingston the 2005-founded firm's UK site at London Bridge is the global headquarters. It is linked with a network of European offices in Germany, Ireland and Switzerland – and the growing company plans to expand its footholds in Europe.

Inclusivity, diversity and individuality are championed at Optimus Search, which takes pride in maintaining the energy of a start-up even as it has grown and become established. For many employees their job at Optimus Search is the first step on the career ladder, and new starters are welcomed warmly. Staff were able to work from home from the start of the pandemic, supported by the right equipment and regular catch-ups.

As a way of enhancing mental wellbeing performance management procedures were paused and replaced with upskilling sessions. The successfully roll out MS Teams meant communication did not pause, and staff were in touch with each other daily, weekly and monthly though chat, team messages, video one-to-ones, and company-wide updates.

Staff have been ablet to return to the office as restrictions eased – if they wanted – but the company's new ‘work from anywhere' policy allows those who'd rather continue remote working to do so. Meanwhile the office is being reimagined as a centre of excellence for training, and for those who prefer to come in.