Introduction
For International Women’s Day 2025, we’re shining a light on women who are redefining success, leadership, and the future of business. Claire Gray and Emily Bain, the powerhouse duo behind Bain and Gray, have built a business rooted in integrity, collaboration, and a genuine passion for connecting talented individuals with the right opportunities.
From launching during a recession to building a thriving, values-driven company, their journey is one of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering belief in the power of community. Now proudly an Employee-Owned Business, Bain and Gray continues to champion the future of this female-led recruitment consultancy.
In this interview, Claire and Emily share their journey, the lessons they’ve learned, and how they’ve fostered a business culture that supports and uplifts women. If you’re looking for inspiration, wisdom, or a reminder that success is built on passion and purpose, you’ll find it all here!
1) Breaking Barriers
Founding and leading a business as women in a competitive industry is no small feat. What inspired you both to start Bain and Gray, and what were the biggest challenges you faced in the early days?
CG: We started Bain and Gray in the midst of a recession, as working mothers in a tough market. It was 2008, and we had both reached a point where we felt unfulfilled in our jobs which gave us no work life balance. We wanted to create something that worked for us - professionally and personally.
EB: We had no money, no office - just a desk in my flat! But we were determined to make it work. Initially, we made a business plan and tried to get a small investment from the bank to get our idea off the ground, but the bank refused us, so we reached out to all our friends and family, building our network from the ground up. One of the biggest lessons we learned early on was to never be afraid to ask for help and feedback. It’s invaluable!
We were also the first agency to start working with the Oxford Media Business School over 20 years ago. We love collaborating with Andrea Freeman, the Principal, to help her students, past and present, by linking amazing talent with amazing careers. This partnership has been instrumental in fostering the next generation of talent in our industry.
2) Navigating a Male-Dominated Landscape
The business world, especially in leadership roles, is still largely male-dominated. Have you ever faced resistance or bias as female founders, and how did you overcome it?
CG: Confidence is key. You have to remind yourself that you know what you’re doing. Emotional intelligence plays a huge role - understanding that if someone is being unsupportive, it’s more about them than you.
EB: While our industry is predominantly female, we’ve worked with people from all backgrounds. One of the skills we’ve honed is the ability to connect with different personalities - even those who may initially be less supportive. Finding common ground is essential.
3) Defining Success on Your Own Terms
Success often looks different for women, particularly in industries where we’ve historically been underrepresented. What does success mean to you, and has that definition changed over the years?
EB: Success, for me, has always been about sticking to our values. From the start, we wanted to support working mothers, create a business built on honesty and trust, and simply enjoy what we were doing. Ironically, when we focused on our passion rather than profit, the success followed naturally. Building Bain and Gray allowed me to work on something which I am deeply passionate about, whilst helping others, and being able to work on my terms, which to me feels like the definition of success.
CG: Reputation is really important to me. We never set out to grow Bain and Gray to the scale it is today - it evolved organically because we loved what we were doing, and people were drawn to us because of our reputation and down-to-earth nature. Now, success also means achieving work-life balance. Being able to live in the countryside with my family while still running a thriving business in London is something I value deeply.
4) Smashing the Glass Ceiling
Women often talk about the ‘glass ceiling’ - the invisible barriers that hinder career progression. Have there been defining moments where you felt you shattered a glass ceiling, and what did that feel like?
EB: In 2014, I had a real moment of reflection. We had grown to a team of 10, and it struck me just how far we had come. Then, we were approached by Facebook as a potential client. At the time, that was a huge milestone for us and a real validation of our work!!
5) Confidence & Leadership
Confidence and resilience are key to navigating entrepreneurship. Were there moments when you doubted yourself, and how did you push through those moments of uncertainty?
EB: Absolutely. One thing we’ve done since the beginning is seek mentorship. From day one, we’ve always surrounded ourselves with people who could share their knowledge and expertise. As we outgrew one mentor, we’d find another. Mentors don’t have to be formal - sometimes they’re friends, family, or acquaintances!
6) Balancing Ambition with Well-being
Women are often expected to “have it all” - a thriving career, personal life, and everything in between. How do you balance the pressures of running a business while maintaining personal well-being?
CG: You have to listen to your body. Both Emily and I have faced burnout at different times, and we’ve had to recognise when to step back. The beauty of what we’ve built is that it allows us to create space for our well-being.
EB: We’re incredibly supportive of each other. Having worked together for so long, we instinctively know when the other isn’t feeling 100%. That level of understanding is invaluable. We also built Bain and Gray to create a work/life balance, which has allowed us to take sabbaticals and rest when needed. A lot of companies don't prioritise rest, and ultimately if all your staff and CEOs are burnt out, it will affect your business! We've always had an open-door policy and regularly check in with each other and our employees to make sure everyone feels seen and heard. We encourage rest!!
7) Advice for the Next Generation
If you could give one piece of advice to young women who aspire to start their own businesses or take on leadership roles, what would it be?
EB: Don’t be frightened - just do it! If you know your craft, get out there and make it happen. Sometimes, we don’t even realise what we’re capable of until we take the leap.
CG: If you’re not making money, you must be having fun. And if you’re not having fun, you should at least be making money! The key is to enjoy what you do and make sure it aligns with your values.
8) Building a Supportive Culture
Women supporting women is a powerful force. How do you foster a culture of mentorship and empowerment at Bain & Gray, both internally and for the women you place in roles?
EB: We’ve always prioritised mentoring and creating a workplace where everyone feels a sense of belonging. We created LINKS at Bain and Gray especially for this! It is a supportive and collaborative community for EAs, PAs, and those working in Business Support where we share invaluable tips, resources and interviews. It is such a joy to connect with so many amazing women and help each other in this community!
CG: Succession planning has been a big focus for us, which is why we transitioned Bain & Gray into an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). We’ve been lucky to work with so many inspiring women over the last decade, and this move ensures that all our employees share in the future success of the business. Watching this transition has been incredibly rewarding, and we’re excited for what’s ahead.
