About us · Founding story

75 years. Tens of millions of lives changed.

Seventy-five years of people, places, and possibility. This is Drake’s story told through the moments, the cities, and the communities that shaped it.

Across 75 years, 12 companies, and 14 countries, the people of Drake have been the constant.

Portrait of Bill Pollock, founder of Drake International, smiling, in a pinstripe suit and tie

The founder

Remembering Bill

Bill Pollock’s passing marked the end of an extraordinary chapter in Drake’s history. The official announcement reflects on his remarkable journey from founding Drake International to building one of the world’s most respected recruitment organisations, and the legacy that continues to shape the company today.

I have always been driven by a greater purpose for Drake. It is a business but also a force for good. Yes, we are here to serve our customers and our employees, but also to serve society. Where I found my real contribution and personal joy was enabling individuals to reach their potential through meaningful work.Bill Pollock · Founder and Chairman Emeritus, Drake International

The timeline

Fifteen moments

Every entry here is Drake’s own, from the 75-year history page.

1951Office Overload(Drake International founded) Established in Winnipeg as a workforce productivity business, forming the foundation of Drake International.

1950s – 1970sGlobal recruitment expansionExpanded across North America, UK, South Africa, Asia, Australia and beyond, building a global staffing and workforce solutions business.

1971Drake MedoxEntered healthcare workforce solutions, creating a specialised healthcare staffing business.

1980sDrake P3Introduced behavioural assessment and workforce productivity tools, pioneering early data-driven HR approaches.