We were proud to bring together colleagues from across the country — both in person and virtually — for our June 2025 Business Update, led by our CEO Ciara Pryce. The session marked a key moment to reflect on a transformational six months and look ahead with renewed focus and energy.
Opening the event, Ciara extended a warm thank you to the entire team for their resilience and commitment during a period of significant change as VGC embraced a new era of leadership. Emphasising our values of openness and transparency, she encouraged everyone to engage, ask questions, and stay connected as we build the future together.
Celebrating Our People
At the heart of VGC is our people, and we took time to celebrate the moments that matter: from Oliva’s wedding and birthday wishes for Sean and Lisa, to James Burke’s impressive finish at the London Marathon. These achievements reflect the passion and spirit that define our team.
Recent company events have continued to bring us together — including Wellbeing Week, our summer drinks social, our summer drinks held at the Rotunda in London and most recently, hosting the prestigious Leading Ladies Reception at the Houses of Parliament. These moments not only strengthen our culture but spotlight VGC’s growing voice in the industry.
Building a Resilient Future
Ciara addressed the structural changes undertaken over the last six months — a purposeful shift to ensure long-term strength, stability, and focus. With external pressures including a changing government landscape, project delays, rising costs, and an increasingly competitive market, the steps taken have laid solid foundations for future growth.
A key focus has been building regional delivery teams, ensuring we’re positioned where the work is — not just in the cities, but across the UK — ready to mobilise as new projects ramp up.
Financial Focus: Planning for Tomorrow
Finance Director Chris Hoyle provided insight into our H1 performance and outlined our strategic financial roadmap. With a strong cash position and clear vision, 2025 is a year of preparing for accelerated growth in 2026. Performance across VGC Recruitment, VGC Projects, and Cole Hire has been closely monitored to ensure we grow sustainably and responsibly.
Delivery & Innovation
COO Chris Ryan shared highlights from a busy year so far, with 48 tenders already submitted for projects commencing later this year and beyond. He emphasised that consistent service excellence, compliance, safety, and innovation remain non-negotiables for success. From digital transformation to diversification, our teams are rising to the challenge.
Chris also presented a market overview, showcasing exciting opportunities for VGC across the UK and internationally.
Progress, Recognition & Culture
Ciara spotlighted key achievements across our business support teams, including the continued progress of our digital transformation projects and positive outcomes from the latest staff survey.
We also celebrated standout training and development milestones:
- Krista Edwards achieved a First in Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management BSc Hons degree
- Alex Dalton received a Distinction in his Procurement Apprenticeship end point assessment
- Tom Surey completed his ACCA qualifications
We were honoured to be named Socially Responsible Company of the Year at the Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce Awards, and we’re proud to be shortlisted for two Construction News Awards and one Solihull Chamber of Commerce Award which will be announced at ceremonies later this year.
A special moment was reserved for Lorne Berris, who received her 15-year long service award — a testament to loyalty and lasting impact at VGC.
Looking Ahead
#Ciara closed with a clear message: 2025 is about focus, execution, and teamwork. She asked every team member to:
- And live the VGC Way every day
- Prioritise sales growth
- Maintain strong margin and cost control
- Support the delivery of our digital transformation projects
- Never compromise on compliance
- Deliver outstanding candidate and client experiences
“Our culture is our strength. Our people are our power. Every team, whether long-established or newly formed, is part of something bigger — and it’s up to all of us to keep building on that together.”
Kind regards
Ciara Pryce Chris Ryan Chris Hoyle
CEO COO Finance Director
