About Tandem
Launched in 2014, Tandem is one of the UK’s original challenger banks, headquartered in the North West on England with over 500 employees across the UK. The business focuses on helping customers make better financial choices while lowering their environmental impact.
The challenge
Tandem was not previously familiar with the Restart Scheme and was exploring ways to support recruitment for Customer Service roles. Following an initial introduction, the business identified strong crossover between what they typically look for in candidates and the support available through the scheme.
Tandem was also interested in accessing candidates with transferable skills and supporting individuals to understand that they can apply for roles within a bank, particularly as this environment can feel intimidating to some. As a sustainability focused organisation, the opportunity to support people back into employment and give back to local communities was also important.
The solution
Working collaboratively, the Restart team took time to understand Tandem’s business and the skills required for the roles. A bespoke training programme was developed for different groups of candidates, helping them build knowledge of the role and the banking sector before entering the recruitment process.
Candidates completed an assessment centre and a screening call with the Restart team before progressing, with interviews guaranteed for those who met the required standard. The process remained flexible, with ongoing adjustments made in response to feedback, and additional support provided to candidates during onboarding when needed.
The Result
The partnership delivered strong outcomes for Tandem’s recruitment and candidate experience:
- 12 individuals secured roles across Cardiff and Blackpool as Customer Service Executives and Mortgage Administrators, with an 89% retention rate
- Delivered significant cost and efficiency benefits, including £50,000+ saved in agency fees and a 61% offer rate
- Increased access to relevant, interview ready candidates, who demonstrated strong preparation, motivation, and understanding of the roles
- Broadened access to diverse talent pools, encouraging consideration of candidates with transferable skills and different backgrounds
- Delivered positive individual impact, including candidates gaining employment to improve financial stability and support their families, with one candidate recognised as the strongest performer in their training cohort
“The Restart Scheme has been a really valuable support to our recruitment efforts… The quality of candidates has been consistently strong, with interview feedback showing they come well prepared, have a clear understanding of both Tandem and the roles and are genuinely motivated.”
Recruitment Partner – Tandem
The partnership also supported Tandem’s wider values, aligning with its commitment to sustainability and giving back, while helping individuals rebuild confidence and re-enter employment.
