Working with Martens & Brijs: A Candidate Guide for 2026
Martens & Brijs is a Belgium-based executive search firm specializing in high-level consulting and business services roles. They focus on identifying leadership talent for complex organizational needs. The most important thing for candidates to know is that they operate on a retained basis, meaning they prioritize deep, long-term relationships over high-volume placements.
Who pays Martens & Brijs
Retained by the employer, not by you.
Martens & Brijs 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.
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Sectors we track
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Presence
Source: JobMentis Agency Directory, 29,247 agencies across 102 markets, 2026.
Their side
Sectors
What sectors and roles does Martens & Brijs cover?
Martens & Brijs focuses exclusively on the consulting and business services sectors within the Belgian market. They manage executive search mandates for senior management and specialized leadership positions that require deep industry expertise. Their work often involves placing candidates who can drive strategic change or manage complex service delivery models for their clients.
Where you meet
How does the executive search process work for a candidate?
The process begins with a confidential outreach or a formal interview to assess your alignment with a specific client mandate. If you are a strong match, the consultants will guide you through a series of structured interviews and professional assessments to validate your competencies. Throughout the process, they act as a bridge between you and the hiring organization, managing expectations and feedback on both sides.
What should I expect during the engagement process?
Expect a professional, high-touch communication cadence that is focused on specific opportunities rather than general career coaching. Because they are retained by clients, the agency represents the employer's interests, and the hiring company covers all search fees. Timelines for these searches are typically longer than standard recruitment, reflecting the depth of the assessment and selection process.
Your side
How can I get on the radar of Martens & Brijs?
To be considered for their high-level mandates, ensure your CV highlights specific achievements in consulting or business services rather than just job titles. Submit your profile directly through their official channels and include a brief cover letter that outlines your specific sector expertise. Networking with their consultants via professional platforms can also help, provided your outreach is tailored to their specific areas of focus.
Is Martens & Brijs the right fit for my career search?
This agency is an excellent fit if you are an experienced professional or executive looking for high-impact roles within the consulting and business services sectors in Belgium. If you are seeking entry-level positions or roles outside of their specialized sectors, you will likely find more success with generalist recruitment agencies. They are best suited for candidates who value a discreet, thorough, and highly professional approach to career advancement.
How to work with Martens & Brijs: candidate playbook
- Tailor your CV to emphasize consulting achievements and specific business service outcomes.
- Maintain a professional and updated profile on major business networking platforms.
- Respond promptly to requests for documentation or assessment availability.
- Be transparent about your current notice period and salary expectations early on.
- Focus your outreach on roles that align strictly with your core industry expertise.
Frequently asked questions
Does my data remain confidential if I submit my CV?
Yes, executive search firms like Martens & Brijs operate under strict confidentiality standards. Your profile will not be shared with any potential employer without your explicit consent for a specific role.
Should I register with multiple agencies simultaneously?
It is common practice to engage with multiple firms, especially if they specialize in different sectors. However, ensure you keep track of where your CV has been sent to avoid duplicate applications for the same role.
What happens if I do not hear back after an initial interview?
Executive search processes can be lengthy due to client requirements. If you do not hear back within the expected timeframe, a single, polite follow-up email is appropriate to reiterate your interest and request a status update.
How does an executive search firm differ from a standard recruitment agency?
Executive search firms are typically retained by companies to find specific talent for senior roles, whereas standard agencies often work on a contingency basis for a broader range of positions. The focus here is on a long-term match rather than filling a vacancy quickly.
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General guidance for candidates. JobMentis is not affiliated with the agencies listed.