Mike Beesley, the founding chief executive of Bristol-based Sanderson, one of the UK’s leading independent recruitment businesses, has stepped down after 41 years at the helm.
Mike, who launched Sanderson in the late 70s with colleague Keith Dawe, will now concentrate on other business interests, including TIMESTWO Investments, the recruitment investment firm he founded alongside Keith a year ago. 
He also holds several chair roles and is an investor in multiple organisations.
Current Sanderson MD Jon Ball, pictured with Mike Beesley, right, who joined in 1996 as a trainee recruitment consultant, moves into the CEO role.
Mike and Keith built Sanderson into a major force in the recruitment sector, developing a group of businesses a with a combined turnover of £400m, employing nearly 300 people in a network of 10 offices stretching from Edinburgh and Glasgow to Southampton and Dublin to add to its Clifton Down headquarters.
Having spent many years under various names, including Resource Management Group (RSG), last year it went back to operating under the Sanderson brand. The group also developed a high profile in Bristol from its long-running sponsorship links with Bristol City FC.
Its expansion earned it places in a number of national high-growth league tables, including the Sunday Times Top Track 250 in which it leapt 149 places in three years to 33rd in 2018.
Last year it acquired Sopra Steria Recruitment, now re-named as Intelligent Resource, and a major stake in iKas Global, increasing Sanderson’s international footprint to Singapore, Hong Kong and Sydney.
Mike, 63, said: “This feels like the right time to move forward and experience new business adventures. 
“I leave the company in excellent hands with Jon and his team and I know they will drive it forward into the brave new world with the same dedication and skill as they have shown throughout previous years.
“I look back on my time at Sanderson with great fondness. I’ve had the opportunity to work with some of the best organisations in the country – from major financial institutions through to talented start-ups and government departments.
“I am also proud of the contribution we have made to community and charitable activities over the years, and none more so that the recent support given to the Covid-19 food relief efforts in conjunction with FareShare in Bristol.
“While this is an ‘official’ adieu to Sanderson I remain their biggest ally and supporter as they navigate the next stage of their journey.”
Jon Ball said: “This is a true milestone in the Sanderson story, and we are all grateful for Mike’s incredible contribution to the creation and development of this business over the years.
“He is a dedicated and passionate business leader who will be sorely missed and we wish him all the very best for the future in his new endeavours.”
Mike Beesley was awarded the Lord Mayor of Bristol’s Medal in 2018 for his work with The Prince’s Trust.
