Retained Services

Retained services in recruitment refer to a premium recruitment model where a company hires a recruitment agency on an exclusive basis to fill a specific role or set of roles. This model is commonly used for senior, executive, or highly specialized positions where quality, discretion, and a dedicated search process are essential.

1. Exclusive Engagement:
   The recruiter works exclusively with the hiring company on the role. Other agencies are typically not involved.

2. Upfront Fee:
   A portion of the recruitment fee is paid upfront (retainer), regardless of whether a candidate is ultimately hired. This payment structure reflects the commitment from both sides.

3. Dedicated Search:
   The agency allocates significant time and resources to identify, engage, and assess top-tier candidates, often using headhunting techniques and deep industry research.

4. Strategic Partnership:
   The recruitment agency acts more as a consultant or partner, offering advice on market conditions, salary benchmarking, candidate profiling, and employer branding.

5. Structured Process:
   Retained search typically includes a thorough process: initial briefing, candidate sourcing, screening and interviews, shortlist presentation, client interviews, and offer management.

6. Higher Quality Candidates:
   Because of the in-depth approach, candidates are usually pre-vetted and well-matched to both the job requirements and company culture.

7. Confidentiality:
   Particularly useful for sensitive hires (e.g., replacing a current executive), retained searches are conducted with discretion.

Typical Fee Structure:

• 1/3 Upfront (retainer)

• 1/3 Upon Shortlist Presentation

• 1/3 Upon Successful Placement

When to Use Retained Recruitment:

• Filling C-level or senior leadership roles.

• Hiring for niche or hard-to-fill positions.

• Needing a confidential or discreet search.

• Seeking high-quality, strategic hires.