Mind The Gap

The skills gap is growing, a crack in the ground that's growing and spreading

The skills gap in manufacturing & engineering isn’t coming. It’s already here. And it’s widening by the day. Across the West Midlands, experienced machinists, welders, toolmakers, press brake setter/operators, and maintenance engineers are reaching retirement age. Many of them have spent decades perfecting their craft, holding together production lines, and passing on their knowledge to […]

Five Years of Oliver Rae!

A collection of lime green birthday balloons to celebrate Oliver Rae's 5th Birthday, a recruitment agency in the West Midlands

It’s hard to believe that Oliver Rae has turned five this month. Half a decade, and what a half it’s been. Five years ago, we weren’t a team, we were just an idea. With a background in recruitment and a passion for doing things the right way, Lauren launched Oliver Rae, an independent recruitment agency […]

Why Loving Your Job Matters for Mental Health

I remember the day vividly – the day I turned 16 and my mum decided it was time I got a job. No ifs, no buts. Off I went to work at the local chip shop, and let me tell you, I hated it! But there I was, frying chips and wrapping orders for a […]

Finding A Fulfilling Career: My Journey To Work I Love

Finding a fulfilling career: My journey to work i love

Doing work you enjoy makes a world of difference. But let’s be honest, sometimes life doesn’t give us that luxury. You might take a job that is available that will pay the bills, put food on the table, and gives you a bit of breathing space. And there’s no shame in that, work ethic is […]

April’s Employer Changes Got You Worried? Here’s Your Hiring Fix

Good businesses deserve good people. How Oliver Rae can help with the new April Employer changes

April might bring sunshine, daffodils, and easter eggs…But in 2025, it’s also delivered another wave of financial pressure for employers across the UK. With the National Minimum Wage now at £12.21 and Employer National Insurance contributions increasing again, businesses are understandably asking: – Can we still afford to grow? – Do we need to restructure […]

Interview Tips: Candidate Edition

We all know interviews can feel daunting, we’ve all been there at one point or another. The thought of sitting across from a hiring manager while they fire questions at you can feel more like an interrogation than an opportunity. But here’s the truth, interviews should be a two-way conversation. It’s not a test. Your […]

How to Kick-Start Your Career in Manufacturing and Engineering

manufacturing and engineering college students learning about cnc machines

The manufacturing and engineering industries aren’t just vital to the UK’s economy, they’re the backbone of innovation, sustainability, and technological progress. Whether you’re a school leaver, fancy a career change, or someone eager to upskill yourself, these fields offer job security, excellent opportunities, and the chance to truly make a difference. Why Choose Manufacturing and […]

5 Things To Consider Before Accepting That Job Offer

5 things to consider before accepting that job offer

Congratulations, you’ve received a job offer! That’s a big deal and an exciting moment – but now the real decision-making begins. Accepting a job is a significant commitment, and it’s essential to weigh whether it’s the right move for you. Here are 5 things to consider before you say ‘yes’. Does the salary and benefits […]