Origins

The main motivation for the founder, Mike Gorshkov, was a challenge to himself that he could build a successful business. As time has passed that motivation still runs deep and every time he achieves a goal, he focuses on the next challenge. The main start up issues during the first three years of business were staffing, work-life balance and business growth. Developing, attracting and retaining the best talent in the industry is top of its agenda. Linea has a reputation for being one of the best recruiter businesses in Wales and finding the right people to live up to that reputation, enhance it and develop it further is a continuing challenge. According to Mike, running a business becomes all-consuming and need to know when to switch off, particularly if you have a family. Someone once told him ‘no one will work harder than you in your business’. Finding the right balance is difficult particularly in a fast moving competitive industry. Most people who launch a business are probably experts in the process of making their product, selling their service or managing a team. Founders need to be able to wear many hats – marketing manager, accounts manager, HR manager, sales manager and business owner. Nothing prepares people for this. However the biggest challenge in growing a business and adding value to the enterprise is the skill of growing a business. It is a skill in its own right and requires a lot of thought, clarity of direction, leadership and commitment to succeed.

Success Factor

A key factor in its success is the strong team at Linea and their dedication, passion and creativity that they bring to the business. The company works closely with its clients to meet their recruitment requirements and exceed expectations, whilst always following ethical and efficient recruitment processes. It remains focussed on a blend of niche, high demand/high value markets to drive the business forward.

The Future

Linea has several key objectives for growth. The company’s focus is on strengthening its position in core and target markets and developing its brand as the technical recruiter of choice. It has plans to expand beyond Wales and open at least two offices in other regional UK markets. The company aims to grow the Cardiff office to a team of 30 fee earners and achieve turnover in excess of £20 million over the next five years.