showhide

Having retired from Rugby in 2013, after a successful career for some of the biggest clubs in the Aviva Premiership, you might be wondering what became of Craig Gillies. The 6'8 former Bath, Richmond, Llanelli Scarlets and Worcester Warriors lock decided against remaining in the game, preferring to look at options away from the sport he was a part of for over 15 years.

Whilst many players go into coaching or punditry, Craig wanted to pursue a fresh challenge in a completely different environment, something altogether different from professional sport, but an industry that would allow him to forge an equally as impressive career. Step forward O'Neill & Brennan.

Having played for some of the most reputable and well-established clubs in his day, Craig was looking to work with an organisation that mirrored those qualities. With over 25 years of construction solutions experience, as well as being regarded as one of the leading companies within this field, O'Neill & Brennan was the perfect fit. Having joined in Spring 2017, Craig quickly became established in his new role, operating out of the Cheltenham office, one of 16 O'Neill & Brennan offices across the UK and Ireland.

Since then, Craig has gone from strength to strength, building relationships with key contacts within many of the top 50 main contractors, whilst cultivating a strong pipeline and network of skilled construction professionals. As a result of his endevours, Craig has subsequently been promoted to Key Account Manager for the Birmingham and Midlands region, operating on a much larger scale to before, which will allow him to continue to develop and grow his client base.

Craig, who started his new role just last month, was understandably delighted with the opportunity afforded to him, "I'm excited to be making the move to the Birmingham office and being based in an area that is thriving with construction activity. With construction output definitely on the rise, I can't wait to start making in-roads in this region and capitalising on the opportunity O'Neill & Brennan have given me."

Whilst on the outset it may not appear as invigorating as overturning a scrum at the Sixfields Stadium, or winning a lineout ball at Twickenham on the 22 line, Craig's rise in the recruitment world demonstrates that there is life after sport and you can experience success in a different capacity. If you'd like to speak to the man himself, or the Birmingham team to discuss any immediate or future staffing requirements, contact them on 0121 456 5588 or email birmingham@oandb.co.uk

Author