A Historic Dual Recognition in UK Business Excellence

In a landmark achievement for the recruitment industry, VHR has become the only recruitment company to ever be honoured with both a Queen’s Award (2018) and a King’s Award (2025) for Enterprise in International Trade. This unprecedented recognition cements VHR’s status as a global leader in technical recruitment.

These awards, widely regarded as the most prestigious business accolades in the UK, are granted only to companies that demonstrate exceptional and sustained growth in overseas markets. VHR’s consistent global expansion, ethical recruitment practices, and commitment to international partnerships have set the benchmark for what excellence looks like in the technical recruitment sector.

What Winning the Queen’s and King’s Awards Means for VHR

When VHR was awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade in 2018, the company celebrated the moment as a significant milestone. As stated in our original announcement:

“To be recognised for our contribution to international trade and growth as a UK business is an honour. This award represents the hard work of our global teams and their dedication to ethical recruitment and client service.”
– VHR, 2018

Fast forward to 2025, and VHR has once again stood out – this time with a King’s Award for Enterprise, in the same category. The achievement reinforces the company’s growth trajectory and the impact of its recruitment services across 57 countries.

“Winning the King’s Award is more than a symbol of excellence – it’s a reflection of our relentless ambition to push boundaries and lead the way in technical recruitment. This accolade belongs to our entire global team.”
– VHR, 2025

An Industry-First: The Only Recruitment Firm to Win Both Awards

To be the only recruitment company in history to win both honours is a moment of pride and reflection. It underscores VHR’s unwavering commitment to doing recruitment right – through ethical practices, compliance-led strategies, and a laser focus on supporting client success across complex global markets.

“From day one, we’ve taken a consultative, values-led approach to recruitment. To be recognised at the highest level twice over by the Crown – once by Her Majesty and now by His Majesty – is humbling. It proves that technical recruitment can be both ethical and extraordinary.”
– Danny Brooks MBE, CEO, VHR

“These awards are a result of tireless teamwork, visionary thinking, and a commitment to delivering value to our clients and candidates. Our journey is only just beginning.”
– Paul Robinson, COO, VHR

The Future of VHR: Ambition Meets Global Impact

VHR’s global footprint continues to grow, with 8 offices and 100+ employees speaking over 24 languages. With the 2025 King’s Award win, the company is already looking ahead to new partnerships, new markets, and an even deeper investment in sustainable, inclusive, and ethical international recruitment solutions.

Future initiatives include:

  • Expansion into new high-growth regions across Asia and South America

  • Strengthening labour mobility through fair employment practices

  • Investing in tech platforms that streamline international hiring

  • Enhancing training and upskilling programmes for candidates worldwide

 

Supporting Clients With Award-Winning Expertise

VHR’s dual recognition directly benefits its clients across the Aerospace & Aviation, F1 & Automotive, Engineering & Manufacturing, Civils & Infrastructure, Defence & Security, Renewables & Energy, and Marine industries. These sectors are already navigating challenges such as skills shortages and global competition.

By working with a trusted, award-winning partner like VHR, employers gain access to globally mobile talent, seamless compliance support, and recruitment solutions backed by two of the UK’s highest honours.

Explore how we support international workforce solutions and discover why global brands choose VHR.

 

How to Apply for the King’s Award for Enterprise

Interested in learning more about how your organisation can apply for the King’s Award for Enterprise? You can find all the relevant guidance and application details on the UK Government’s official page:
Apply for The King’s Awards for Enterprise

 

Partner with a Globally Recognised Recruitment Leader

With two royal awards in our portfolio, VHR remains committed to raising the standard in international recruitment. Whether you're a business looking to expand your international workforce or a candidate seeking new opportunities abroad, our specialist teams are ready to help.

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