Principal Recruitment Consultant - Executive Search

Job Title: Principal Recruitment Consultant

Location: London (3–4 days in office per week)

Salary: Up to £75,000 base + uncapped commission

About the firm

Join a high-growth, specialist executive search firm operating across Legal, Financial Services and Engineering/Technology markets. Known for its deep expertise, high-touch search methodology and rapid expansion, the firm consistently delivers on complex, senior-level mandates across the UK, Europe and the US.

Their work regularly involves senior appointments tied to major transformation programmes, investment cycles and strategic build-outs — with deal values that can sit comfortably in the six- and even seven-figure range

This is a business built on high performance, autonomy and continuous growth, with a proven track record of scaling headcount, revenue and geographic reach year-on-year.

Role overview

As a Principal Recruitment Consultant, you will take full ownership of your vertical — driving new business, leading high-value executive searches and strengthening senior client relationships. You will be trusted with autonomy, expected to deliver consistently, and empowered to influence the growth of the wider team.

Key responsibilities

• Lead full end-to-end executive search assignments across senior and strategic roles.
• Build new client relationships and expand existing accounts, focusing on mandates tied to high-value projects and major organisational change.
• Map, attract and close senior talent through proactive headhunting, networking and market intelligence.
• Own billing performance within your market and consistently deliver against agreed revenue targets.
• Mentor and support consultants, sharing best-practice and building capability across the team.
• Provide market insights and talent advisory to senior stakeholders, positioning yourself as a trusted specialist.
• Collaborate across the business to support growth, operational improvement and the firm’s wider strategic goals.

What we’re looking for

• Strong experience as an established 360 recruiter or executive search consultant, ideally already operating at Senior/Principal level.
• A proven billing history and confidence running senior-level, often complex mandates.
• Ability to engage C-suite, Partners and Heads-of-Function with credibility and commercial sharpness.
• Strong business development skills and a track record of winning new accounts.
• Resilience, self-motivation and a genuine passion for working in a high-performance environment.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Comfortable working 3–4 days per week in a collaborative London office environment.

What we offer

• Base salary up to £75,000 + uncapped commission.
• Opportunity to work on senior mandates connected to seven-figure deals, giving you access to high-end client work and substantial earning potential.
• A meritocratic progression pathway, with options to move into leadership or a top-biller route.
• Hybrid working (3–4 days in office).
• Access to a high-performance culture with strong training, development and peer learning.
• Exposure to global assignments, international markets and rapidly growing client demand.
• Benefits including private healthcare, gym discounts, incentive trips, and potential equity/long-term reward depending on level.

Why this is a strong next step

This is a rare opportunity to step into a firm that is scaling fast, winning high-value assignments and investing heavily in both its people and its market reach. For an ambitious Principal Consultant, it offers the perfect mix: big roles, big deals, and the ability to directly shape both your earnings and your future career trajectory.

Seniority level

Mid-Senior level

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Staffing and Recruiting