A former international table-tennis player has set up a new human resources advice company serving firms in Medway.

Matilda Stevens, 58, has set up base for The HR Dept Rochester and Chatham in offices at the Historic Dockyard.

It aims to offer outsourced human resources advice and support to small and medium-sized businesses in north west Kent.

The Gillingham-based businesswoman grew up in Nigeria where, as a 14-year-old, she represented the country as a talented table-tennis player.

However, her career ambitions were elsewhere, and after returning to the UK in 1991, she pursued a corporate career in London.

She explains: "People management is really challenging for business owners at the moment, with difficult economic times, changing legislation and the ongoing impact of the pandemic to consider.

“Human resources is a core element of what makes a company successful, and due to the events of the past few years, this is becoming more recognised. So I’m looking forward to helping business owners, MDs and CEOs make the most of their HR.

Human resources is a core element of what makes a company successful

“Companies need to focus particularly on good recruitment practices and retention strategies; on how to find, train and keep hold of talent in a candidates' market.

“It needs creativity and solid understanding of the legal framework and the principles of good employment, managed by someone with good organisation, determination and competence.”

The HR Dept Rochester and Chatham is one of a network of 75 franchisees providing services in the UK, Ireland and Australia.

Felicity Kenny, managing director of The HR Dept, said: “It’s great to see someone of Matilda’s calibre and experience offering HR services to SMEs in her part of Kent. We wish her all the best operating the licence and are sure she will make it a great success.”