Matchtech, which is based at the Solent Business Park, Whiteley, reported profits had grown to £10.5m, up from £7.7m the previous year.

Turnover also went up 29 per cent to £202.8m for the year ending July 31, 2007, up from £156.7m.

The results come despite the slowdown in the UK economy and reflects Matchtech’s tie-ups with companies that have an orderbook of work stretching forward for several years, with growth in all sectors.

Among its clients is VT Shipbuilding.

The figures come as the company launches a recruitment drive, having already increased its headcount from 197 to 247 during the course of the financial year.

Many of these are graduates from the University of Portsmouth, with which the company said it had built up a good relationship.

During the past year it has placed more than 2,100 candidates into permanent jobs and filled 6,300 assignments in the year.

Chairman George Materna said: ‘Matchtech has continued to perform very well over the year and delivered another excellent set of results.

‘These are our first full results since our listing on the alternative investment market in October 2006 and I am delighted that our new shareholders are able to share in the continuing success of the group.

‘The outlook in our marketplace continues to be positive. Labour demand across all our sectors remains healthy and this looks set to continue for the foreseeable future.

‘The shortage of good quality candidates and contractors and Matchtech’s ability to identify and secure the right people for our clients are key factors in our success.

‘This combination of confidence in UK businesses and shortages of qualified engineers and other white collar professionals should ensure continued buoyant recruitment conditions for Matchtech to capitalise on.’

Group managing director Adrian Gunn said: ‘The reason we are still growing is we are involved with clients that have long term growth potential.

‘One of our biggest is the VT Group, which has just secured contracts to build offshore patrol vessels, is continuing with the Type 45 programme and has the carrier programme.’

jeremy.dunning @thenews.co.uk