THE Hamblin employment group has been bought by its chief executive officer Emma Allard in a management buy-out from chairman and founder Frank Newton.

Mr Newton said the Hamblin board wished to assure its many clients and associates that with Ms Allard continuing in the role of CEO it is a seamless change with business continuing very much as usual.

Ms Allard said "I am delighted at having been offered this unique opportunity to take over the Island's premier recruitment business."

Mr Newton described Ms Allard as a true professional possessing more than 20 years recruitment industry experience gained with major names such as ADECCO and Select Appointments in London followed by several years offshore recruitment experience, mainly with Hamblin.

Mr Newton added: "I am delighted with this management buy out.

"The fact that such a respected, high profile and experienced industry figure as Emma wished to take over the Hamblin business indicates the success and strength of the brand as well as the high esteem and regard in which Hamblin is held within the Island's business community.

"As Hamblin approaches its 25th year of meeting the Isle of Man's employment needs I have every confidence that Emma's experience, skills, energy and drive will ensure that the group's premier industry position remains secure for the next 25 years."

The group, the largest of its kind in the Island, provides permanent and contract staffing to the Island's professional, commercial and public sectors in areas such as accountancy, banking, investment and fund management, legal, life assurance, trust and corporate services and ship management to name but a few.

The services presently offered by the various divisions of Hamblin cover executive and permanent recruitment, e-gaming recruitment, temporary staffing, training and development, human resources and payroll services.

With a background in operational management both on and off Island, Manx born and educated Frank Newton was largely responsible for establishing the beginnings of the Isle of Man recruitment industry when he opened Hamblin's doors in Nelson St, Douglas, in April 1987 as the Island's first professional and managerial recruitment consultancy.

Mr Newton says he has very much enjoyed his many years in the industry, building and developing Hamblin and seeing its size and reputation grow with each achievement.

Throughout his years in business Frank has also played an active role in the local community, holding various offices and making significant contributions as a member of various organisations including the Chamber of Commerce, Round Table, Rotary and the Isle of Man Yacht Club.

Well known as a passionate, well travelled sailor and yacht owner, Frank now looks forward to his retirement and the ability to spend more time on the water.

Ms Allard said she wishes Mr Newton the best of luck on his well earned retirement.