From a dining room table to two thriving offices, SLR is a Portsmouth-born business that’s become a national name in marine recruitment, while staying deeply rooted in its local community. Founded by Sarah Roads, a determined entrepreneur balancing motherhood and ambition, SLR Marine began as a solo venture to connect skilled tradespeople with shipbuilders across the UK. Today, it’s a team of 11, operating from two offices and supplying talent to major shipyards nationwide.
SLR specialise in supplying contractors with the marine and industrial sectors. SLR’s mission is to connect the right skilled tradespeople. But SLR’s story doesn’t stop at national success. In January, the company launched SLR Local, a dedicated arm focused on connecting Portsmouth businesses with local talent.
“We were seeing people walk into our office looking for work, but if they weren’t in the marine sector, we couldn’t help,” Sarah explains.
“SLR Local has grown organically from that need—and from our love for this city.”
SLR Local has already secured contracts with major employers like Mountjoy and Portico, as well as several independent businesses. It’s a testament to the demand for a recruitment partner that understands Portsmouth’s unique character and workforce.
“Because we’re all Portsmouth girls and guys,” Sarah says with a smile.
“We care deeply about this city. We want to keep the Pompey Pound in Portsmouth.”
That passion is evident in SLR’s involvement with community initiatives like Shaping Portsmouth, and in their open-door policy for anyone needing career advice or a CV review. “If someone’s having a wobble in their career, we want them to know they can come to us.”
SLR’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. “Recruitment can come with a bad reputation,” Sarah admits.
“We’ve built our brand on honesty and integrity. If we can’t help, we’ll say so. We’re not just here to make money, we’re here to make a difference.”
For other small businesses looking to scale, Sarah offers simple but powerful advice: “Don’t overthink. Trust your gut. And learn the power of saying no to things that don’t align with your values.”
Fresh off winning both Small Business of the Year and Overall Business of the Year at the Portsmouth Business Excellence Awards, SLR is buzzing with energy. The team is exploring the launch of a training school to offer trade qualifications to those who don’t fit the traditional educational mould.
“There’s so much more we can do,” Sarah says. “We’re hungry for it.”
SLR’s story is a shining example of what’s possible in Portsmouth—a city full of talent, opportunity, and community spirit. Whether you’re a business looking to hire locally or considering a move to the area, SLR is ready to help you connect with the right people.
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