Disrupt. Defend. Define.
We know that there are misunderstandings, misconceptions, misinformation about the value of the roles we champion and place.
We provide safe spaces, platforms, mentoring, education and information.
We stand for and seek change. We speak up and out. We enable the sector to define its own future.
We do things differently here.
"I founded Lily Shippen in 2016 to transform the recruitment experience for both clients and candidates across the UK. With over ten years of recruitment expertise, I specialise in hiring exceptional HR and Business Support professionals, focusing on long-term success.
At Lily Shippen, we offer more than just recruitment—providing training, networking, and ongoing support for candidates and businesses alike. I pride myself on building trusted relationships, driven by honesty and integrity, and I'm passionate about supporting businesses with tailored solutions that ensure the best talent fit.
We look forward to partnering with you."
Exceptional businesses. Exceptional people.
Because we are specialists, dedicated to the roles and expertise we cover, we offer more than placing candidates in companies.
Training, networking and support.
Consultation and development.
For us, it’s about building the best and most productive role for PAs and HR professionals to thrive, create impact and make things better, for everyone.
We do more, so that you can too.
How? A curated talent pool, a team of experts who understand the
role, so they can add value at every stage. A network that extends
out into a community.
The long game.
Emily Mills
Director - eavolve
Emily joined Lily Shippen in October 2022, initially taking on the role of Operations Manager, where she was responsible for developing and strengthening the company's business infrastructure. In January 2024, she progressed to Head of Growth & Initiatives, reflecting her leadership and strategic vision. Emily is now the Director of eavolve, a separate Lily Shippen company focused on training, mentoring, and coaching for EAs, PAs, and Chief of Staff professionals. With an extensive career as an award-winning EA, Emily brings a unique perspective to our team. She also manages all marketing efforts for Lily Shippen Recruitment. Known for her transparency, authenticity, and results-driven approach, Emily prides herself on delivering fair and effective solutions. Her experience and dedication make her an invaluable asset to our team.
Lily Shippen
Managing Director
Lily Shippen is the Founder of Lily Shippen, a leading recruitment business specialising in placing high-calibre business support professionals. Since founding the company in 2016, Lily has been pivotal in driving its growth and success. As Founder, she is responsible for shaping the overall business strategy, enhancing brand visibility, and cultivating long-term client relationships. Lily possesses deep expertise in recruiting high-level Executive Assistants and thrives on partnering with founders to find the perfect strategic extension to their team. Her keen understanding of the unique dynamics at the executive level sets her apart, making her a trusted advisor in the recruitment of top-tier support professionals.
Samantha Gillespie
Senior Principal Consultant
Samantha joined Lily Shippen in 2021, bringing with her over 20 years of business support recruitment experience within the London market. Her extensive industry knowledge and dedication have made her a trusted expert across all areas of the sector. Throughout her career, Samantha has built a strong reputation for her ability to deliver outstanding results for both clients and candidates alike. Passionate about recruitment, Samantha excels at identifying top talent and matching them with the right opportunities, ensuring long-lasting success for businesses and professionals. Her commitment and expertise make her an invaluable asset to the Lily Shippen team.
Matt Gregson
National Recruitment Manager
Matt joined Lily Shippen in March 2024 as the Manager of our recruitment team and is now fully responsible for overseeing the recruitment business. With a background in education, Matt successfully transitioned into recruitment, bringing over five years of experience as a teacher, which has honed his exceptional people skills and commitment to high standards.Matt thrives on helping others and encourages anyone seeking guidance to reach out to him. In addition to leading the recruitment team, he is actively involved in developing client relationships and can often be found at networking events in both London and Manchester, where he represents Lily Shippen.
Our Values
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Be tenacious
Put simply, tenacity is that fierce blend of determination, persistence and grit. For leaders and their organisations, it's the trait that means the difference between failure and success.
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Show sincerity
(Of a person) saying what they genuinely feel or believe; not dishonest or hypocritical.
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Have confidence
A feeling of self-assurance arising from an appreciation of one's own abilities or qualities.
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Gain trust
Rely or depend on, to believe.
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Exceed expectations
Consistently does work going far beyond what is expected in terms such as quantity, quality, timeliness and customer satisfaction. Goes the extra mile.