A WOMAN who started as an administrator has risen through the ranks to become managing director of a recruitment agency.

Leanne Goodwin is the new boss of Jobwise, an independent recruitment agency, based on Bridge Street, Bolton.

Jobwise has been in business for more than 30 years and is a leading supplier of temporary and permanent office staff to both private and public sector clients.

Mrs Goodwin, who lives in Harwood, Bolton, takes over the role from Grant Barton, who will continue with Jobwise as chairman.

Mr Barton said: “Leanne was the ideal candidate for the role. She is passionate, highly driven and has done all the jobs the team do so can relate to all colleagues in the business.

“Leanne has had some fantastic achievements throughout her career with Jobwise — as branch manager she ran the most profitable branch in Jobwise history.

“She is driven to improve the business and we are all very excited about the future of the company as we go from strength to strength.”

Mrs Goodwin began her career in recruitment in March 1993, when she joined Jobwise as a branch administrator at the Bolton office.

She was quickly moved over to the sales side of the business, where she developed her career as a temp consultant, was promoted to team leader, then branch manager, followed by area manager.

While manager at Bolton the office became a huge success and she was asked to join the board of directors in 2005. Under her guidance, Jobwise has been awarded numerous tenders over the years, including contracts with local authorities and the NHS.

Mrs Goodwin said: “I am extremely honoured by my new appointment and very excited at the prospect of leading Jobwise as we continue to build a customer-focused business.

“Coming out of a difficult financial period, I feel now is an exciting time both for Jobwise and the recruitment sector as a whole.

“I intend to make Jobwise the name that clients and candidates remember for first class service by first-class and highly motivated staff.”