Clare Downes
Managing Director
Education
After attending a convent, all-girls school for the first 14 years of education I went on to study to become a teacher… which never quite happened. Have now gone full circle to working in education so got there in the end!
Last Job
I have been in Catering recruitment for the last 27 years but before that was a Restaurant and Bar Manager which has been put to good use in my recruitment career!
Hometown
Birmingham girl through and through, very proud of my Irish heritage.
FAVOURITE COLLEAGUE
My favourite colleague, as much it pains me to say, must be my work partner in crime Ed Vokes – Although Mr Ian Scott comes a close second.
BEST PART OF YOUR JOB
The best part of my job is celebrating success- the smallest success could mean the most to someone and that’s a feeling I never get tired of, whether it be one of the team or a candidate or a client win. They are all just as important!
GO TO DRINK
Anyone that knows me knows it will always be a glass of red- whether it’s 30 degrees outside or sat in front of a cozy fire , Vino Tinto will always be my go-to. For recovery and on a day- to day basis good old fashioned H20 is the one.
RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATION
My favourite place to eat in the world would have to be San Carlo, in Birmingham, as it brings back the fondest memories of “dressing up” for dinner with my lovely Mom (as a treat). I went back there after years , this year to celebrate a landmark birthday and it was just as good as I remember.
FAVOURITE SANDWICH
Must be Edam Cheese, Sliced tomato, mayo and an unhealthy amount of salt and pepper, accompanied by a packet or two of crisps.
INTERESTING FACT
I have an irrational fear of motorways (which I think may have come from being on a motorway with Mr Vokes at the wheel!), but the first site of a blue motorway sign literally makes my palms clammy.
PETS vs KIDS
I think its common knowledge that my Fur baby P, the Pug is my absolute love in life. The snoring, the strange noises and the fat rolls all go to make the cutest sausage roll in the world.