About Reid Ashby

Specialists in Manufacturing & Engineering recruitment

Reid Ashby is a specialist recruitment consultancy focused exclusively on Manufacturing & Engineering, working across the UK to place skilled trades and technical talent where they're needed most.

Our Story

Why we focus on Manufacturing & Engineering

Recruitment agencies love to say they cover everything. We don't. We recruit exclusively in Manufacturing & Engineering because specialising properly means understanding the difference between a Setter-Operator and a Machinist, and knowing what a good weld actually looks like.

We're a small, founder-led team, built deliberately that way. Every brief — whether it's a single CNC Setter or a full production shift — gets the same level of attention and the same direct communication.

Our aim is straightforward: become the first call for manufacturers who need the right person on the shop floor, and the first call for skilled tradespeople looking for their next role.

What We Stand For

Principles that endure

Precision

We match people against the real demands of the role — the tolerances, the environment, the shift pattern — not just a job title.

Transparency

Direct, honest communication with clients and candidates — including when the answer isn't what you want to hear.

Partnership

We take on fewer briefs so we can work every search properly, from first conversation to first day on the shop floor.

Longevity

We aim to measure success by whether a placement is still on the shop floor months later, not just the day they start.

Getting Started

What working with us looks like

A real conversation first

No keyword-matching, no automated screening. We talk to you, properly.

Direct access to the founder

Not passed between account managers.

Honest timelines

We'll tell you realistically how long a search will take.

Clear next steps always

You'll never be left wondering where a search stands.

Let's fill your next vacancy

A direct conversation with our team is the best place to begin.

Contact us ↗