At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and grow the Public Sector practice, shaping strategy and team culture.
- Company: Market-leading Technology Executive Search firm with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: £100,000 salary, £250,000 OTE, equity options, 30 days holiday, and executive coaching.
- Other info: Hybrid working, international travel, and a sociable, high-performing culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public sector recruitment at a senior leadership level.
- Qualifications: Proven leader in executive search or public sector recruitment with board-level experience.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 100000 £ per year.
A market-leading Technology Executive Search firm is looking to appoint a Director or Head of Division to build and lead its Public Sector practice from London. This is a genuine leadership hire for a senior search professional ready to shape a division, influence the firm's strategic direction, and operate at the very top of government, defence and public-sector technology markets.
The business is already established in this space and has the infrastructure, client base and brand to support serious growth. You will be given the autonomy to build the team, culture and client relationships in your own image.
This is an executive search firm that operates exclusively at board and senior leadership level, retained or exclusive on every mandate. Their work spans Public Sector, Government Technology, Defence, AI and Digital Transformation, with clients across the UK, Europe and internationally. Average fees of £30,000 per placement, high-value, low-volume, high-impact. Every consultant in the business, no matter how junior, has billed £120K-£150K in the past six months. A stable, experienced team with an average tenure exceeding five years. No arbitrary KPIs; performance is measured by delivery, credibility and outcomes. Strong investment in development, coaching and long-term career progression. Hybrid working with a well-resourced London office.
As Director / Head of Division you will take ownership of the Public Sector practice, setting direction, growing the team and personally leading the most complex and senior mandates. Define and execute the growth strategy for the Public Sector division. Lead retained and exclusive search campaigns across government, defence and public sector tech. Advise senior technology leaders on executive hiring. Build, manage and develop a high-performing team of search consultants. Drive business development with new and existing clients at board level. Represent the firm at senior forums and industry events. Contribute to firmwide leadership and play a role in shaping overall strategy.
We are looking for a proven leader from an executive search (ideally technology) or senior public sector recruitment background who has operated at or near board level and is ready to run their own division. Demonstrable track record in executive search or senior public sector / government recruitment. Confident advising and influencing C-suite and senior government stakeholders. Experience leading or developing a team or a clear readiness to do so. Commercially astute, with the credibility and presence to win and retain major clients. Comfortable with retained or exclusive mandates and a research-led methodology. Ambitious, intellectually rigorous and motivated by quality over volume.
What's on Offer: £100,000 basic salary, structured to reflect your seniority and experience. £250,000 OTE with a generous, transparent commission scheme. Equity or profit-share pathway for the right long-term appointment. 30 days holiday plus your birthday off. Structured executive coaching and a personalised development plan. A genuine seat at the leadership table with real influence over the firm's direction. Regular international travel and presence at senior government and technology events. A sociable, high-performing culture with strong incentives and team events.
If you have a background in executive search or public sector recruitment and the ambition to lead a division within a firm that genuinely invests in its people, we would welcome a confidential conversation.
Director employer: Rec 2 Rec Search
As a market-leading Technology Executive Search firm, we offer an exceptional opportunity for a Director to shape and lead our Public Sector practice from our well-resourced London office. With a strong focus on employee development, a high-performing culture, and the autonomy to build your team and client relationships, we provide a rewarding environment for ambitious professionals looking to make a significant impact in the public sector technology space. Our commitment to structured coaching, generous benefits, and a transparent commission scheme ensures that you will thrive both personally and professionally in this role.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Rec 2 Rec Search, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Rec 2 Rec Search and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Rec 2 Rec Search and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Rec 2 Rec Search
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Rec 2 Rec Search, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Rec 2 Rec Search.
