Two friends that grew up together in Edinburgh launch global recruitment agency in Dubai

Two Scottish friends have teamed up to launch a global recruitment agency in Dubai, where they expect to quickly grow the workforce.

Calum White and Jamie Clayton have joined forces to set up White & Clayton Recruitment, initially focusing on sectors including manufacturing, construction, tech and finance. It specialises in hiring for positions from graduate to executive level around the world and among its early clients are Nestle and Mondelez International, owners of Cadbury.

The two businessmen grew up together in Edinburgh and say they are looking forward to building a successful operation in the United Arab Emirates from their base on the 20th floor of Control Tower in Dubai's Motor City district.

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Mr White already runs White & Co Real Estate, which he established in Dubai at the start of 2021, having moved to the emirate seven years previously. Mr Clayton was most recently with D. R. Newitt Recruitment where he spent four years, and said it was an opportunity of a lifetime when his mate suggested they go into business together.

The two business partners say they are looking forward to building a successful operation in Dubai (file image). Picture: Karim Sahib/AFP via Getty Images.The two business partners say they are looking forward to building a successful operation in Dubai (file image). Picture: Karim Sahib/AFP via Getty Images.
The two business partners say they are looking forward to building a successful operation in Dubai (file image). Picture: Karim Sahib/AFP via Getty Images.

He said: “Calum has been trying to get me over to Dubai for eight years, and now seemed the right time as I was ready for a change. I know he can run a business, and when this idea came along, it was impossible to ignore.

“He’s my best mate and our whole business plan is based on trust. I’ve been here on holiday before, but I don’t see the country as a holiday destination any more. I’m nearly 32 and mature enough to look upon this as very much being about business for me. We have only just opened the doors, but things are going well, and I know we have a winning formula.”

Mr White said: “We want to build something special here. My experience in building up the real estate agency has been invaluable, and I wanted to use that along with Jamie’s background and knowledge to start up a recruitment firm which I’m sure is going to be a great success. We have a very clear vision of where we want to go, and are looking for the right people to make that happen. There are really exciting times ahead, and I can’t wait to see how things develop.”

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