How to work with Bain and Gray for your 2026 job search
Bain and Gray is a London-based staffing agency specializing in the placement of PAs, secretaries, and administrative professionals. They handle both permanent and temporary roles across diverse business services sectors. For candidates, the most important takeaway is that they prioritize long-term relationship building over simple transactional job matching.
Who pays Bain and Gray
Paid by the employer, not by you.
Bain and Gray earns a fee from the company that hires you, usually a share of your first-year salary or a margin on your contract rate. Their client is that company.
What that means for you
Expect roles that fit their open vacancies before roles that fit your plan. Ask which company a role is for before your CV goes anywhere, and apply direct where you can.
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Sectors we track
Global
Presence
Source: JobMentis Agency Directory, 29,247 agencies across 102 markets, 2026.
Their side
Sectors
What roles and sectors does Bain and Gray specialize in?
Bain and Gray focuses exclusively on the business support ecosystem. Their core expertise lies in placing PAs, executive assistants, secretaries, and office administrators. They serve a broad range of industries in the UK, ensuring that candidates with specialized administrative experience in corporate environments are matched with suitable permanent or temporary assignments.
Where you meet
How does the staffing process work for a candidate?
The process begins with a registration phase where your CV is reviewed against current business service requirements. If your profile aligns with their active mandates, you will undergo an interview to assess your technical skills and cultural fit. Once registered, the agency acts as your representative, presenting your credentials to hiring managers for roles that match your specific career goals.
What should I expect once I engage with the agency?
Expect a professional, consultative relationship where communication is driven by active job openings. While they do not provide daily updates, they will contact you when a role aligns with your background. The agency is paid by the employer, meaning there is no cost to you for their representation or placement services.
Your side
How can I get on the radar of Bain and Gray recruiters?
To stand out, ensure your CV highlights specific software proficiencies and the seniority of the executives you have supported. Use clear, professional language that mirrors the job descriptions for high-level administrative roles. Submitting your application through their official portal and following up with a concise, professional email to a consultant specializing in your sector can significantly increase your visibility.
Is Bain and Gray the right fit for my career search?
Bain and Gray is an excellent partner if you are a career-focused administrative professional seeking high-quality permanent or temporary placements. If you are looking for roles outside of the business services or administrative support sphere, or if you require immediate, high-volume placement regardless of role quality, you may find other agencies more suitable. They prioritize candidates who demonstrate stability and a clear trajectory in their support career.
How to work with Bain and Gray: candidate playbook
- Tailor your CV to emphasize specific executive support software and tools.
- Maintain a clear, chronological record of your employment history.
- Be prepared to discuss your specific salary and location requirements upfront.
- Respond to agency emails promptly to demonstrate your availability.
- Ask for feedback after interviews to refine your presentation for future roles.
Frequently asked questions
Should I register with multiple agencies while working with Bain and Gray?
It is common practice for administrative professionals to register with several agencies to maximize exposure. However, always keep a record of where your CV has been sent to avoid duplicate applications, which can complicate your candidacy.
What happens to my personal data after I submit my CV?
Your CV and personal details are stored within their secure database to be matched against future opportunities. They are required to comply with UK data protection regulations, meaning your information will not be shared with potential employers without your explicit consent.
Can I apply for a role directly if I see it advertised elsewhere?
If you are already represented by Bain and Gray for a specific role, it is best to let them handle the application. Applying independently for the same role can create administrative friction and may disqualify you from being represented by the agency.
How should I follow up if I have not heard back after an interview?
Wait at least one week before sending a polite, brief follow-up email to your consultant. Keep the inquiry focused on whether there is any further information they require from you to progress your application.
Applying through Bain and Gray?
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