• First Choice Software has been an innovator and leader in recruitment software since 1996.

• Its flagship CRM solution, RDB ProNet, is the market leader used by many of the recruitment sector’s leading agencies as well as by progressive SMEs.

• Acquired by Access Group in 2016, it has become part of an organisation with more than 1 million users in 10,000 organisations of all sizes.

First Choice Software was founded in 1996 by a team of recruiters that wanted to manage the placement cycle in a more efficient fashion. Their main drive was to develop a comprehensive CRM system, and that system today is used by more than 8,000 consultants in the UK to recruit candidates for temp and permanent roles in all sectors.

Over 20 years, First Choice Software has adapted their technology and interface to the needs of the ever-changing recruitment market and legislation changes. As First Choice Software has always been quick to develop and adapt its solutions, numerous companies that recruit in sectors that have to comply with complex legislation frameworks have selected First Choice. As an example, in the education sector, 70% of the teachers that are placed in the UK today are recruited by consultants using RDB ProNet.

One the founders and head of First Choice Software, Roy Snart, says: “The last 20 years have passed in a flash and we are so pleased that so many of our clients that signed up in the 90s are still effectively recruiting with the latest RDB. We are recruiters to the core and look forward to the next 20 years with the same enthusiasm and passion for the profession that we had when we started our fledgling business in 1996.”

Today, First Choice Software, as part of Access Group, remains true to its innovative roots and is uniquely able to provide a recruitment suite that comprises front office CRM, mid office supply management, and back office finance and HR solutions. Recruitment companies can plan and phase their business software investment for operational efficiency without placing a strain on overheads.

Andrew Forster, new head of the recruitment division at Access Group, commented on the future: “Our commitment is to ensure our solution remains at the forefront of technology. We will keep working towards tighter integration between front and back office processes and finding new ways to help our customers to spend more time doing what they do best, recruiting.”

Over the years, First Choice Software has gained a reputation for ‘giving back to the industry’. Ann Swain, CEO at APSCo, observed: “The recruitment sector has changed enormously since 1996, and much of that change can be attributed to massive technological advancements. First Choice Software is a true pioneer in the market, and the brand’s longevity demonstrates the level of service and innovation which it continuously provides. 

“I’d like to think that APSCo and First Choice Software have a special relationship. Over the years we have worked closely together, expanding globally and celebrating achievements such as raising over £1 million to support vulnerable children in the UK through the annual APSCo Charity Ball – of which First Choice Software has been a valued sponsor. We wish the team congratulations on their 20th anniversary - here’s to the next 20 successful years!”

Liz Longman, MD at TEAM, the UK’s largest network of independent recruiters, says: “I’ve known the head of First Choice for more than 10 years and they are a valued member. It’s a company with a defined ethos that’s built its business on reputation. They give a lot back to the recruitment community.”

About First Choice Software Ltd

First Choice Software, is now part of Access Group, is a leading provider of recruitment software and services that start-up, growing mid-size firms and distributed recruitment enterprises rely on every day to achieve optimum performance levels. The company’s established solution, RDB ProNet, is a Customer Relationship Management system that enables recruitment organisations to build stronger client and candidate relationships to deliver improved business results. The company employs a unique combination of innovation and automation with a standards-based approach to simplify core business processes focused on: user productivity, rapid search, real time reporting, fast and flexible communication.

About Access Group

Access is a leading author of integrated business management software. The portfolio spans solutions for ERP, finance, HR, Payroll, warehousing, business intelligence, professional service automation and manufacturing. More than 7,000 UK businesses and not-for-profit organisations use Access solutions to improve their performance, profitability and drive growth, unlocking their business potential through improved business insight.

Access is one of the top five fastest growing UK software developers in The Sunday Times Buyout Track 100 2012 and featured in last year’s Profit Track 100. On-going commitment to excellence, customers and employees has also placed the company among the UK’s top employers in The Sunday Times’ 100 ‘Best Companies to Work For’ 2014. 

For more information, call or email Isabel Ubeda, marketing programmes manager, First Choice Software

Mobile 07725 240279 

Email [email protected]