As 2025 comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on what has been a meaningful, challenging and rewarding eighth year in business. Lighthouse Personnel has grown in ways that continue to make me proud, and I’m incredibly grateful for everyone who has been part of the journey.
Highlights From the Year
We started the year strong with the launch of our new website. It’s helped us communicate our values more clearly and better support both candidates and clients.
A theme of the year emerged early on in the form of talks and workshops. What began as a few invitations turned into a steady run of sessions for businesses, candidates, schools and career advisers. Helping people navigate careers and recruitment in a changing environment has been one of the most rewarding aspects of 2025.
A personal professional milestone was seeing my article published in Essex Director magazine (https://ukdirectormagazines.co.uk/talent-essex/) —something I felt genuinely proud of. And our move to the Innovation Centre has been a fantastic step, giving us access to great facilities and a vibrant, supportive community.
We’ve also continued to build strong referral partnerships, and I want to give a special shout-out to my business coach, Peter Basford, whose support and challenge have been invaluable this year.
Alongside all this, we began introducing AI into our processes—not to replace the human element that defines us, but to enhance efficiency and free us up to do more of what we do best.
As always, we’ve loved working with our brilliant clients and candidates. Thank you for trusting us, choosing us, and partnering with us. It’s a privilege to support you.
It hasn’t been an easy year for the wider economy—more downs than ups for many—but despite that, I can genuinely say:
It feels great to be 8!
Personal Reflections
Outside of work, the year brought its own meaningful moments. We enjoyed some lovely family holidays over the summer, I had the joy of volunteering at a Christian youth camp, and Rosey and I celebrated our 10-year wedding anniversary—something I’m incredibly grateful for.
I also went through an emotional patch that led to some positive changes in my faith, wellbeing and work–life balance. I’m ending the year feeling clearer and healthier for it.
Looking Ahead
Next year will bring plenty of plates to spin—both professionally and personally. We’ll be:
- Deepening our use of AI
- Building on our reputation and referral partnerships
- Keeping networking at the heart of our growth strategy
And on a personal level, I know I’ll be leaning on the support of Rosey and Sam as we move into what promises to be a busy, exciting year.
Thank you again to everyone who has supported Lighthouse Personnel this year. Here’s to a hopeful, purposeful and uplifting 2026.
– Gerard Francis
Lighthouse Keeper, Lighthouse Personnel