The retail sector is getting the recruitment solution it’s long needed with the launch of Switch Roles, a new platform created by industry insiders who’ve lived the challenges first-hand. Founded by Zac Clements and Danny Monfea of Zachary Daniels, and Simon Childs of Childsey, the site offers a streamlined, effective alternative to traditional job boards.
Drawing on careers that span major names like IKEA, BHS, and the Theo Paphitis Retail Group, the trio have built Switch Roles to directly address the hiring pain points retail and hospitality businesses face daily.
Real Roles, Real Matches
Switch Roles connects candidates with purpose-driven opportunities. The platform avoids the common trap of generic job listings by featuring curated openings from reputable brands, designed to match skills, culture, and career ambitions.
Big Names Backing the Vision
Brands such as Hugo Boss, Lidl, Burger King, Matalan, American Golf, and Footasylum are already on board, showing confidence in Switch Roles as a recruitment partner. With over 3,500 listings live, the platform is already proving its worth.
Simplifying the Candidate Journey
Job searches shouldn’t be exhausting. Switch Roles puts user experience first, allowing job seekers to quickly filter roles based on location, expertise and interest. The result? Less time searching, more time applying.
Backed by Retail, Built for Retail
With investment from more than 50 stakeholders across retail, recruitment, and e-commerce, Switch Roles is more than just a digital tool—it’s a community-driven response to outdated hiring practices. The founders’ passion for better recruitment is evident in every feature of the platform.
Danny Monfea (left), Simon Childs (centre) and Zac Clements (right)
Founders’ Insights
Zac Clements, Co-founder of Switch Roles and Zachary Daniels:
“After managing at IKEA and building up my recruitment experience at Hays and Michael Page, I noticed a real disconnect between retail employers and job seekers. Co-founding Zachary Daniels gave me the chance to start changing that, but with Switch Roles, we’re going even further. We’re creating a platform that really understands the ins and outs of retail, helping employers and candidates find the right fit – without all the hassle.”
Danny Monfea, Co-founder of Switch Roles and Zachary Daniels:
“My journey began in loss prevention roles at Woolworths and BHS, giving me a deep understanding of retail operations. Transitioning into retail recruitment in 2007, I led teams at Randstad and Hays, I then led teams at 260 Talent before co-founding Zachary Daniels in 2011. With Switch Roles, we’re addressing the specific challenges of retail hiring, offering a fair, transparent, and community-driven platform that benefits both employers and job seekers.”
Simon Childs, Founder of Childsey and Co-founder of Switch Roles:
“Starting as an intern at the Theo Paphitis Retail Group and rising to the management board at Ryman over eight years, I gained invaluable insights into retail’s commercial landscape. Launching my marketing agency, Childsey, in 2020, I combined my retail experience with marketing and digital innovation. With Switch Roles, we’re leveraging this blend to create a user-friendly platform that not only connects talent with opportunity but also fosters a vibrant community for retail professionals.”
Why Switch Roles Stands Out
- Retail-Focused: Exclusively tailored to the retail sector, providing a targeted, efficient solution for job seekers and employers alike.
- User-Friendly: Built with simplicity and accessibility in mind, making the job search process smooth and enjoyable.
- Leading Brands: Partnerships with top UK retailers ensure a wealth of quality opportunities for job seekers.
- Community: Beyond being a job board, Switch Roles aspires to build a vibrant community for retail professionals, offering career advice and industry insights.
Supporting the Future of UK Retail
Switch Roles is more than just a platform; it’s a movement to support and sustain the thriving UK retail sector. By connecting the right people with the right roles, Switch Roles aims to contribute to the industry’s continued growth and success. Whether you’re a job seeker or an employer, Switch Roles is your partner in navigating the ever-evolving world of retail recruitment.
