Business Details
Expert Recruitment & Consultancy Solutions
1st Executive is a leading management consultancy and specialist recruitment firm with over two decades of expertise in procurement, supply chain, commercial strategy, and risk management. Our deep-rooted networks and exclusive relationships with upper-quartile talent enable us to deliver tailored solutions to global brands and public sector organisations across the UK, EU, and US. With a focus on outcome-driven consultancy and recruitment services, we combine market expertise, international reach, and a commitment to quality delivery. Our team of specialists, supported by experienced consultants and researchers, provides end-to-end support for permanent, interim, and international placements. We prioritise accountability, transparency, and client satisfaction, ensuring every engagement aligns with measurable targets and timelines.Our proven track record in sourcing C-suite executives and managing large-scale transformation projects underscores our position as a trusted partner in the industry. By leveraging a rigorous methodology and innovative risk-reward models, we deliver cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality. Our clients benefit from access to a diverse talent pool of over 70,000 pre-screened professionals, ensuring rapid response times and strategic hires. Sustainability and ethical practices are integral to our operations, reflected in our Carbon Reduction Plan and FCSA certification. At 1st Executive, we are dedicated to challenging industry norms, fostering long-term relationships, and delivering exceptional value to our clients.
Services
Procurement Recruitment
Supply Chain Consultancy
Interim Staffing
Risk Management Solutions
International Placements
Permanent Hiring
Programme Leadership
Commercial Strategy
Complex Contract Management
Sustainability Recruitment
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in procurement and supply chain recruitment.
- Our network includes 70,000+ pre-screened professionals for rapid, quality placements.
- We are FCSA Certified, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
- We deliver cost savings of 30-50% compared to larger consultancies.
- Our international reach spans the UK, EU, and US with local expertise.
Associations and certifications
- FCSA Certified
What people say
Excellent at their job
Trustworthy, honest, knowledgeable
Go the extra mile
Successful outcomes
Proactive and positive
Services
Procurement Recruitment
We specialise in sourcing top-tier procurement professionals for permanent and interim roles. Our expertise spans indirect and direct spend categories, with a focus on C-suite appointments and strategic hires. Clients benefit from access to a global network of passive and active candidates, ensuring precise matches for complex requirements. Our rigorous methodology guarantees placements that align with organisational goals.
Supply Chain Consultancy
Our consultancy services optimise supply chain operations through tailored strategies and risk mitigation. We support organisations in designing resilient networks, improving efficiency, and implementing sustainable practices. With deep sector knowledge, we address challenges in logistics, procurement, and compliance, delivering measurable improvements in cost and performance.
Interim Staffing
We provide rapid deployment of interim professionals for critical projects and operational gaps. Our candidates range from analysts to C-suite executives, with expertise in procurement, risk management, and programme delivery. Clients leverage flexible 'risk-reward' models to enhance ROI while maintaining quality and agility in dynamic environments.
International Placements
Our unrivalled network enables seamless recruitment across the UK, Europe, and North America. We specialise in placing mid-to-senior-level professionals in challenging locations, supporting both client expansion and candidate career growth. Services include cultural alignment assessments and compliance with local regulations for smooth onboarding.
Risk Management Solutions
We help organisations identify, assess, and mitigate risks in procurement and supply chain operations. Our consultants develop frameworks for compliance, contract management, and operational resilience. By integrating proactive strategies, we reduce vulnerabilities and enhance decision-making in complex, high-stakes environments.
People
James Tucker
Joint Managing Director
James co-leads 1st Executive with over 20 years of experience in recruitment and consultancy. He specialises in building strategic partnerships with global clients, driving growth through innovative talent solutions and market insights.
Richard Shelley
Director of UK Practice
Richard oversees UK operations, leveraging his expertise in procurement and supply chain recruitment. He focuses on delivering high-impact placements and consultancy services to public and private sector clients nationwide.
Sally Davis
Director of International Practice
Sally leads international expansion, managing relationships with clients and candidates across Europe and North America. Her strategic approach ensures alignment with global market trends and client-specific objectives.
Victoria Whiting
Head of Finance
Victoria manages financial operations, ensuring fiscal discipline and transparency. Her background in corporate finance supports strategic decision-making and sustainable growth for 1st Executive.
Questions
What sectors does 1st Executive specialise in?
We focus on procurement, supply chain, commercial strategy, risk management, and sustainability across the public and private sectors globally.
Do you offer international recruitment services?
Yes, we provide placements and consultancy in the UK, EU, and US, with a network of internationally mobile professionals.
How do you ensure quality in interim staffing?
We rigorously vet candidates and use risk-reward models to align incentives, ensuring high performance and client satisfaction.
Are your consultancy services tailored to specific industries?
Yes, our consultants have sector-specific expertise, delivering customised strategies for clients in manufacturing, healthcare, and more.
What accreditations do you hold?
We are FCSA Certified and adhere to strict compliance standards, ensuring ethical and professional service delivery.
How can I apply for a role with 1st Executive?
Visit our 'Work for Us' section to explore current opportunities and submit your application for permanent or interim roles.
