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          Recruitment Agency Leeds

          Best Recruitment Specialist Leeds

          Choosing the best specialist recruitment agencies in this Yorkshire city can be vital, especially to manage the costs of recruitment and fill Leeds jobs swiftly. This is why so many Leeds employers make Headway Recruitment their first call!

          West Yorkshire’s largest city is proud of its many ground-breaking feats, including the world’s first steam locomotive and the oldest functional aeroplane in Britain. Leeds even played a role in the birth of the internet, X-rays and Marks & Spencer!

          Though retail is still a big part of the economy, employers who need a recruitment consultant in Leeds now represent all sectors of industry and commerce. While some rely on specialist recruitment services for fresh pioneering endeavours, others require niche employees so they can keep the nation’s supermarket shelves stocked!

          Why us?

          We Can Find Your
          Next Hire

          Working With Headway

          When you choose to work with Headway, you’re choosing a team of dedicated and experienced consultants who will work tirelessly to meet your recruitment needs.

          Treating people how we would wish to be treated is a core value here at Headway. That’s why you’ll find our approach to be honest, friendly and approachable, making sure that we stand out from the crowd.

          When you work with us, you’ll see that we work with passion, professionalism and efficiency – and you’ll be supported every step of the way.

          Testimonials

          Your Team

          Mark Gill

          Mark Gill

          Director

          I’m the owner of Headway Recruitment, a Leeds and Bradford-based recruitment firm that helps organisations find people who fit in – not just on paper, but in real life. We support businesses to grow with integrity through our unique Headway Recruitment Insight Platform, which includes psychometric testing, AI screening, and video interviewing.

          I believe fair recruitment and purposeful leadership can genuinely change the world. That’s why we’re on a mission to help great businesses find great people — simple as that.

          My psychometric profile is D (direct & driven), which basically means I love a challenge, hate fluff, and get a buzz from making things happen.

          When I’m not talking about recruitment, I’m usually running, leading Elastic Minds – a monthly men’s mental health running group in Leeds – or off adventuring with my partner and our four kids. We spend a lot of time crammed into a campervan, discovering wild swimming spots and arguing over the best playlist!

          Follow me on LinkedIn for honest thoughts on business, leadership, life, and running.

          Annabel Lewis

          Annabel Lewis

          Managing Director

          Annabel Lewis is Managing Director at Headway Recruitment. She has been part of the business since 2004 and now leads the team across Leeds and Bradford, shaping the culture, direction and long-term success of the company.

          Over more than two decades, Annabel has built trusted, long-standing relationships with clients and candidates alike. As Headway Managing Director, she brings deep insight into what makes a successful hire — looking beyond CVs to focus on values, behaviours and long-term fit. Importantly, she has never lost her passion for the core of recruitment and still enjoys being closely involved in making the right matches.

          Annabel works closely with employers across Leeds and Bradford, supporting permanent and interim hiring through Headway’s insight-led approach. You can learn more about how the business supports organisations through its Recruitment Services and specialist Engineering Recruitment offering.

          As a leader, Annabel is known for her calm, collaborative style. She believes the best results come from trust, consistency and shared accountability. Under her leadership, Headway has continued to grow while staying true to its values of fairness, integrity, and people-first recruitment.

          Her psychometric profile reflects an Influence-Steady style, which shows in her approachable nature, clear communication and ability to bring people together. As Headway Director, Annabel focuses on building teams that last — both internally and for the clients Headway supports.

          Outside of work, Annabel is rarely still. She enjoys organising trips and social events, keeping busy with friends and family, and making the most of time away from the office.

          Follow Annabel on LinkedIn here to see her thoughts on recruitment, leadership, and life at Headway.

          Sally Criddle

          Sally Criddle

          Recruitment & Development Manager

          Sally joined Headway Recruitment in 2017, bringing with her a strong background in business development and sales. Early on, she realised recruitment was where her strengths really came to life. As a result, she quickly built a reputation for being organised, dependable and people-focused.

          Today, as Recruitment & Development Manager, Sally plays a key role in keeping Headway running smoothly. She supports clients, candidates and the internal team across Leeds and Bradford. In particular, she works closely with key clients to ensure recruitment processes stay efficient, structured and human at every stage.

          Sally is known for her attention to detail and calm, methodical approach. She manages pipelines, oversees processes and supports consultants to deliver consistently high standards. As a result, very little slips through the cracks.

          What really sets Sally apart, however, is how she combines structure with genuine care for people. She’s motivated by making a difference. Whether that’s supporting a candidate through a career change or helping a client navigate a challenging hire, she brings clarity and reassurance throughout the process.

          Her psychometric profile is Si, often referred to as ‘The Counsellor’. This reflects her warm, approachable nature and strong communication style. As a result, she builds trust quickly and brings a steady, positive energy to the team.

          Outside of work, Sally’s happy place is the kitchen. With a cookbook open and music playing, she enjoys trying new recipes and unwinding after a busy week.

          Follow Sally on LinkedIn for insights into recruitment, people development and life at Headway.

          Rose Ilagan

          Rose Ilagan

          Payroll & Accounts Administrator

          Rose is our dedicated Payroll and Accounts Administrator, bringing a meticulous eye for detail and a strong commitment to accuracy in managing payroll and financial records. Her keen organizational skills and a thorough understanding of payroll processes ensure that our team is well-supported and our accounts are always in order.

          Rose’s psychometric profile is an Sc, reflecting her conscientious nature and ability to work independently while also being a reliable and supportive team member. She approaches her work with a high degree of professionalism, and her friendly and approachable demeanor makes her a valued colleague in the office. Rose is passionate about creating efficient systems and processes that enhance productivity and accuracy, making her an invaluable asset to our team.

          Outside of work, Rose loves spending quality time with her two children, exploring new adventures, and creating lasting memories. She is a devoted mother who enjoys engaging in fun activities with her kids, whether it’s crafting at home or exploring the great outdoors.