Barclays Black Founder Accelerator 2022 member
Diverse Talent Search

We are a specialist IT & digital recruitment agency, established to connect organisations with talent from underrepresented groups within society.
Why did you join the Barclays Black Founder Accelerator?
I’d love the opportunity to learn from an organisation like Barclays. They’re a household name who’ve had success both in the UK and internationally. Having the opportunity to learn from the expertise within the organisation will be a fantastic opportunity for me. Also, the workshops around scaling a business, social media strategy/management and pitching/securing investments will be very useful. Lastly, DTS is soon to be 2 years old, this is a perfect time to kick start the next phase of success and get us to new levels.
Why did you want to start your business?
Firstly, to tackle issues that directly affect black people and those from underrepresented communities. Secondly, to give young people relatable role models within highly visible organisations. Lastly to connect organisations to the diverse talent they need to hire.
What would be your desired outcome from this programme?
To learn new things about building and sustaining a successful business. I’m looking forward to gaining knowledge that will really help push DTS to the next level and get us closer to being the UK’s leading recruitment agency for IT & Digital talent. I’m also looking forward to networking and building connections with those delivering the courses and those selected to be part of to be part of the accelerator.
Which entrepreneur inspires you the most and why?
Virgil Abloh. God rest his soul - Mainly because he went from the bottom to the top of one of the world’s most competitive industries (Luxury fashion). I aspire to have similar success in recruitment. He came in as an intern and before his unfortunate passing, he’d reached the level of Creative Director at Louis Vuitton. Most impressively he’d built his own brand “Off White” and collaborated with world renowned brands such as Nike, Ikea, Mercedes Benz and Levi’s and became the world’s most sort after brand for a while. He reached a level that DTS aspires to be at. Also, he’s a perfect example of what can be achieved by young black men with the right knowledge, dedication, and self-belief.
What has been your biggest win in your entrepreneurial journey?
Working with JD Sports for the last 12 months. They’re one of the most iconic brands in the UKs and as a child they were one of my favourites. I’ve loved having the opportunity to support them in achieving their D&I hiring goals. From visiting their offices to seeing the work our candidates in the real world, it’s been a great experience.
What has been your biggest challenge?
Social media and marketing strategy. Whilst I have had some successful moments and posts, they haven't been as consistent as I would like.
Where did you go for business advice and how did it help you?
Mainly to 3 people. The founder of the first agency I worked at (Sarah Pawson) and my brothers Johnny & Christopher McLarty. Leaning on their expertise has helped me to avoid costly mistakes but also has given me confidence in decisions ideas I’ve had. Being able to lean on their many years across recruiting or working in the IT/digital industry has been invaluable.
What drives you to make your business a success?
Underrepresentation in top-level jobs in all industries in the UK. Until that issue is fixed, they'll be a need for our work.
What advice would you give other founders thinking about starting their own business?
Get cracking – If you think you’ve got a good a idea, somebody else probably will too and you’ll regret seeing somebody else succeed with your idea. Don’t waste time as there’s many things you can and will need to learn on your journey. The sooner you get started the sooner you’ll start moving towards success. Don’t be afraid to take risks – Obviously don’t take risks you can’t handle the consequences off, but you have to try things and back yourself to succeed outside of your comfort zone. When you take risks you can learn from the successes and failures. When starting a business failing fast sometimes be better for you.