ALF Recruit - Powering Business Growth through Local Expertise

Company: ALF Recruit

Director: Gavin Reynolds

Location: Rochdale, Greater Manchester

Sector: Recruitment - Finance, Accountancy, Business Support, Financial Services

Established: October 2024

Overview

Founded in October 2024 by Managing Director Gavin Reynolds, ALF Recruit set out to redefine executive recruitment in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, and beyond. With a sharp focus on strategic hires across finance, accountancy, business support, and financial services, the firm brings a fresh, expert-led perspective to the industry. Backed by Gavin’s two decades of experience within the local business community, ALF Recruit quickly became an integral part of Rochdale’s dynamic and evolving commercial landscape.

A Changing Landscape

Since the mid-2000s, Rochdale has undergone a remarkable transformation. Once marked by economic decline and shuttered buildings, the town has emerged as a vibrant hub of opportunity, thanks in large part to the efforts of the Rochdale Development Agency (RDA). Landmark initiatives such as Kingsway Business Park, the Riverside Retail and Leisure complex, and the multi-million-pound restoration of Rochdale Town Hall have revitalised the town’s infrastructure, boosted business confidence, and made Rochdale an increasingly attractive place to live, work, invest, and thrive.

Partnering with the RDA

ALF Recruit has flourished with the support of the RDA’s forward-thinking approach. From hosting networking events and facilitating strategic introductions to crafting a bespoke recruitment prospectus for incoming businesses, the RDA has played a key role in helping ALF Recruit meet the evolving talent demands of the region. Their efforts have fostered stronger local connections and nurtured a more collaborative business culture moving beyond the outdated “us vs. them” mindset.

Tackling Recruitment Challenges

Recruitment and retention continue to be pressing concerns for employers across Rochdale. ALF Recruit works closely with businesses to address these challenges benchmarking salaries, assessing employee satisfaction, designing competitive benefits packages, and refining hiring strategies. “A poor hiring decision can cost a business over £10,000,” notes Managing Director Gavin Reynolds. “That’s why getting it right the first time is essential and why the RDA’s emphasis on knowledge-sharing is so impactful.”

Looking Ahead

ALF Recruit is proud to be part of Rochdale’s evolution into a strategically positioned, digitally connected town with both national and international reach. Advances in technology and the rise of hybrid working have expanded the firm’s footprint, enabling placements across the UK and into Europe.

After just one full year of trading, ALF Recruit has been shortlisted for the 2025 Rochdale Business of the Year award (turnover under £1m) a testament to its rapid growth, regional influence, and commitment to excellence.

Finally, ALF Recruit is contributing to the RDA Insight Series, offering specialist guidance and sharing real-world recruitment insights. “We’ve seen local businesses expand rather than relocate,” says Gavin. “There’s a new confidence here, one that combines local pride with global ambition.”