Executive Search Agency for Consulting, Software & Business Services in GBR
Candidate First is a GBR-based executive search firm specializing in Consulting, Business Services, and Software. We help experienced professionals find senior leadership and niche technical roles, offering a digitized approach to headhunting. The most useful thing to know is we focus on proactive, targeted engagement rather than reactive job board applications.
Who pays Candidate First
Retained by the employer, not by you.
Candidate First is paid by the hiring company, often on retainer before anyone is placed. They are working one specific mandate for that company, not managing your search.
What that means for you
Being wrong for this mandate is not a verdict on you. Stay reachable for the next one, and be straight about salary and timing so you are not shortlisted for a brief you would turn down.
3
Sectors we track
Global
Presence
Source: JobMentis Agency Directory, 29,247 agencies across 102 markets, 2026.
Their side
What kind of roles and industries does Candidate First focus on?
We specialize in senior-level and niche technical positions within three core sectors: Management Consulting, Business Services, and Software. This includes leadership roles, strategic advisors, high-demand technical specialists, and sales professionals within these industries. Our focus is on connecting experienced candidates with complex, often hard-to-fill, opportunities where deep sector knowledge is crucial.
Where you meet
How does Candidate First find and place candidates?
Our executive search process is highly targeted. We begin by identifying companies with specific needs and then proactively source candidates through our network and advanced search techniques, rather than waiting for applications. Once a strong match is identified, we engage the candidate directly, present the opportunity, and facilitate interviews if mutual interest exists. We manage the entire process through to offer negotiation and acceptance.
What should I expect if Candidate First is working with me?
You can expect clear, timely communication regarding relevant opportunities and the status of your search. We typically work on an exclusive basis for specific mandates, meaning we present you to a client for a particular role. Our fees are always paid by the hiring company, never by the candidate. While timelines vary by role, we aim for transparency throughout the engagement.
Your side
How can I get Candidate First to consider me for opportunities?
To be considered, ensure your professional profile (e.g., LinkedIn) accurately reflects your expertise in Consulting, Business Services, or Software, highlighting senior roles or specialized technical skills. Use keywords relevant to these sectors and executive-level positions. Referrals from trusted contacts already known to us are also highly valuable. Engage with our content or connect directly if you see a relevant opportunity.
Is Candidate First the right agency for my job search?
Candidate First is ideal if you are an experienced professional in Consulting, Business Services, or Software seeking senior, strategic, or highly specialized technical roles. We are best suited for those who value a proactive, targeted approach and are open to exploring opportunities that may not be publicly advertised. If you are seeking entry-level positions or roles outside our core sectors, other agencies might be a better fit.
How to work with Candidate First: candidate playbook
- Keep your LinkedIn profile updated with keywords relevant to our sectors.
- Be responsive to initial contact; it signifies your engagement level.
- Clearly articulate your career aspirations and target roles.
- Provide specific feedback after interviews to refine the search.
- Consider who you know that might benefit from our services.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays Candidate First's recruitment fee?
Our recruitment fees are exclusively paid by the hiring companies. Candidates never incur any charges for our services, whether for initial engagement, placement, or any part of the recruitment process.
Can I register with multiple recruitment agencies simultaneously?
Yes, it is common practice for candidates to engage with multiple agencies. However, we recommend informing us if you are actively represented by another agency for a specific role to ensure coordinated communication with clients.
What happens to my CV and personal data after I submit it?
Your CV and data are handled with strict confidentiality according to GBR data protection laws. We only share your profile with prospective employers after obtaining your explicit consent for a specific role. Your data is stored securely and used solely for recruitment purposes.
Should I still apply directly to jobs if I see them advertised?
If you have been actively engaged by us for a specific role and we have submitted your profile, please refrain from applying directly to avoid duplicate submissions. If you find a role independently that we haven't discussed, feel free to apply directly and then inform us.
Applying through Candidate First?
Track the role, tailor your CV to the real employer, and prep for the interview with JobMentis.
Start freeRecruiting agencies in United Kingdom
Keep going
General guidance for candidates. JobMentis is not affiliated with the agencies listed.