Applied via an ad on Monster.co.uk Contacted by the CEO within 24hrs for interview with himself (which surprised me) Arranged an interview with him driectly within 3 days; at my convenience - late one evening after work so no working time or holidays lost - extremely flexible. Asked me to complete a personality test, which later on he told me was to "weed out the self-promoters!" Met with the CEO, and was very impressed. A very frank interview - I asked some insightful questions and the CEO was extremely impressed. Interview was scheduled for 1hr, but lasted almost 3 - by which time we needed to arrange food and decided to call it a night and get home. On the way out the CEO told me I was perfect for the role - told me there would be another panel interview with two other Directors - gave me a company USB stick (with case studies and some very detailed information about how they worked) and told me to learn what was on it ; that it would help me in the next stage - which he led me to believe was just a formality. We honestly got on very well. Then; before leading; he volunteered to show me the factory including some of the projects we had talked about. Looked amazing. I came away from the interview thinking I was in; I was extremely interested and excited for the role. Followed up with a courtesy email 3 days later - no response. Called 6 and 10 days later; no repsonse to either message. Emailed 17 days later; got a 3 liner email reply saying that his competitor's Contract Manager approached him and he offered the role to him on the spot - and hoped that I understood. I was utterly flabbergasted and extremely frustrated to say the least! I sent a long email thanking him for his time, stating my understanding and acceptance, but that should there be any other opportunities for me; please let me know/keep me in mind. I genuinely expected & wanted a response It's been 9 months - no response. Very frustrating.