Boost client Q&A: Jordan Richards, Renewed Horizons CIC

Jordan Richards has worked as a recruitment consultant across several sectors for seven years. He set up Renewed Horizons as a service striving to empower and assist people from marginalised and underserved backgrounds to achieve employment and independence. Jordan seeks to combine the dynamic approach of a recruitment consultant with the care and attention of a social enterprise. 

Renewed Horizons provides employment support, employer engagement and casework-style advocacy. In 2024 Jordan joined Boost's Flying Start service, and shares his business inspirations, discusses the Boost support received, and why Lancashire is a great place to do business.

Why did you contact Boost? 

We had just started Renewed Horizons CIC, I had never run my own business before and as a Selnet member I was recommended the guidance that Boost could provide.  

What support did you receive from Boost and how has it helped you and your business?

• Great guidance on networking which has led to me making contact with key decision makers at companies we are hoping to do business with in 2025. 
• Shared experience of working for public sector bodies which allowed me to navigate dealing with said bodies in an informed manner.
• Invaluable advice in dealing with my first case load of underserved individuals on a public sector program including how to manage monitoring.

What piece of advice stood out the most during your Boost support?    

Making sure that participants sign off a summary of what was covered in a session and also any advocacy work done on their behalf should be signed off. Makes monitoring the project much easier. 

Who has been your biggest business inspiration and why?    

My cousin worked for several CIC’s in the area. I did not know what one was until we were discussing his work over a beer. That started a long chain of events that has led me to this point.

What motivates you in business and why?    

Being primarily responsible for any success allows you to take pride in your work which keeps me motivated to deliver and sell the service to the best of my ability.

What are your growth plans for the next three years?    

To grow the business to a level where it can support several train consultants to support new Employment Projects in the area. To have delivered a project outside of Lancashire but still in the North West.

How do you like to start your working day?    

Walk my Mastiff, Denzel. Helps clear my mind for the day.

Why is Lancashire a great location for a business?    

Lancashire is an ideal business location due to its diverse, thriving communities and rapid economic growth. I have lived in Lancashire all my life so I have extensive knowledge of the area and the communities that make up the area.

What would you say to someone who is considering using Boost?    

Definitely do it! If you are willing to put in the hard work yourself the expert guidance is invaluable

What is your advice for anyone looking to grow a business?    

Jump in and fully commit. As daunting as it can be to back yourself it is the only way you can really grow a business in my opinion.

If you’re looking to grow, scale or start your business, use Boost; Lancashire’s Business Growth Hub. We offer a range of funded business support services. Call our Business Support Helpdesk on 0800 488 0057 to find out more or complete our enquiry form.