Top 12 Recruitment Agencies in Europe (IT and non-IT)

Elen Muradyan

Last updated on October 29, 2024 | 17 min read

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The European recruitment market is rapidly expanding, valued at around USD 270 billion in 2022, and is projected to reach nearly USD 600 billion by 2030. While the demand for skilled IT professionals drives significant growth in the tech sector, the overall job market has become increasingly competitive across all fields.

Recruitment agencies play a crucial role in the ever-evolving and competitive European market. By leveraging advanced technologies and innovative strategies, these agencies foster an environment where both businesses and job seekers can excel. Their focus on efficiency helps companies stay agile in a fast-changing marketplace, while offering flexible job placements and transparent hiring processes that provide job seekers with a competitive advantage.

Recruitment agencies offer access to diverse candidates and provide expertise to help organizations navigate the complex labor market. This article will cover the best recruitment agencies in Europe for tech, digital marketing, finance and beyond.

Top 4 Agencies:

1. DevsData LLC – Top Pick: Best overall
2. Hays: Best for Multidisciplinary Hiring
3. Empiric: Best for Niche Sectors
4. Next Ventures: Best for Long-Term Positions

1. DevsData LLC – Top Pick: Best overall

   

   Website: www.devsdata.com
   Team size: ~60 employees
   Founded: 2016
   Headquarters: Brooklyn, NY, and Warsaw, Poland

   DevsData LLC stands as a leading recruitment agency in Europe, with a focus on the IT sector. Boasting more than 8 years of industry experience, DevsData has developed an extensive network, enabling it to efficiently connect companies with top talent. With headquarters in New York and Warsaw, and offices across Europe, DevsData leverages its international reach to source candidates from diverse backgrounds, ensuring clients find the perfect match for their specific needs.

   Why choose DevsData LLC?

   One of DevsData LLC’s strengths is its extensive database of over 65,000 pre-screened professionals, enabling swift and efficient hiring processes. This extensive resource enables the agency to operate effectively in the high-paced hiring process, significantly reducing hire time, a crucial factor for companies eager to maintain their competitive edge. DevsData LLC conducts thorough 90-minute technical interviews, resulting in an acceptance rate of less than 6%. This approach ensures that clients receive only the most qualified candidates tailored to their specific organizational requirements.

   
   
   

   DevsData LLC serves a diverse range of clients, including hedge funds, multinational corporations, and innovative startups from countries like the US and Israel. This varied clientele highlights the agency’s adaptability to different industry needs. By focusing on each client’s specific requirements, DevsData LLC creates tailored recruitment solutions that drive success. With over 100 projects completed for more than 80 clients, they consistently demonstrate their ability to deliver outstanding results.

   The company has earned top satisfaction ratings on Clutch and GoodFirms, reflecting its dedication to delivering high-quality service and ensuring client satisfaction. The agency has partnered with companies across industries, from fashion to finance. In one recent collaboration, DevsData assisted a company specializing in algorithmic trading on cryptocurrency exchanges, surpassing the client’s expectations, leading to additional hires. More about this case here.

   Key features

   • The agency has a strong global presence with a network spanning various countries.
   • Successfully completed over 100 projects and placed top-tier IT professionals across diverse industries.
   • Specializes in permanent, contract, and project-based recruitment, along with business process outsourcing (BPO) and consulting services.
   • Consistently achieves top client satisfaction ratings, demonstrating a strong commitment to quality service.

   Do you have IT recruitment needs?

   🎧 Schedule a meeting

   To connect with DevsData LLC, email them at general@devsdata.com or visit their website at www.devsdata.com.

2. Hays: Best for Multidisciplinary Hiring

   

   Website: www.hays.co.uk
   Team size: ~13000 employees
   Founded: 1968
   Headquarters: London, England, UK

   With over 50 years of experience, Hays has established itself as a prominent provider of workforce solutions, offering recruitment services across a wide range of industries. Operating in 33 countries and employing around 13,000 professionals, Hays helps businesses address talent shortages and develop future-ready workforce strategies. Last year, Hays placed 280,000 individuals in roles, including 77,000 in permanent positions, showcasing their ability to meet diverse hiring needs. The agency provides recruitment solutions for permanent, temporary, and contract roles, allowing businesses the flexibility to meet their evolving staffing requirements while maintaining a focus on sustainability.

   Hays supports both businesses and job seekers by providing expert guidance through career transitions and skill development, utilizing a data-driven, personalized approach. Their expertise also extends to workforce planning and employer branding, helping organizations enhance their hiring processes. The agency’s global reach, combined with local market expertise, positions it as a trusted partner for organizations navigating complex labor markets. By placing an emphasis on upskilling and continuous learning, Hays ensures that candidates remain competitive in today’s dynamic job market, delivering long-term value for both clients and candidates.

   Key features

   • Extensive global presence in 33 countries, employing 13,000 professionals.
   • Placed 280,000 individuals in jobs last year, with 77,000 in permanent roles.
   • Offers expertise in permanent, temporary, and contract recruitment, as well as workforce planning and employer branding.

3. Empiric: Best for Niche Sectors

   

   Website: www.empiric.com
   Team size: ~200 employees
   Founded: 2005
   Headquarters: London, England, UK

   Empiric is a highly specialized recruitment agency that focuses on sourcing top talent for niche technologies and business transformation roles. Established in 2005, the agency has deep expertise in markets such as data, cloud, security, and transformation, helping companies secure the right talent to meet their specific needs. Operating in over 40 countries, with offices in Europe, the Middle East, Africa (EMEA), and the US, Empiric provides a global talent network that connects both large corporations and smaller firms with skilled professionals who drive innovation and success.

   Empiric is committed to fostering talent through the promotion of diversity and inclusion, and it actively engages in knowledge-sharing within micro-communities to support growth in emerging technology sectors. By delivering tailored solutions for hard-to-fill roles in hyper-niche markets like data, cloud, and security, the agency helps organizations remain competitive in today’s fast-paced digital landscape. Their global reach, combined with a focus on building strong, lasting relationships with both clients and candidates, makes Empiric a trusted partner for businesses seeking specialized expertise.

   Key features

   • Operates in over 40 countries, with offices in EMEA and the US, providing a global talent network.
   • Delivers tailored solutions for hard-to-fill roles in hyper-niche markets, including data, cloud and security.
   • Engages in knowledge-sharing within micro-communities to support growth in niche technology sectors.

4. Next Ventures: Best for Long-Term Positions

   

   Website: www.next-ventures.com
   Team size: ~180 employees
   Founded: 2001
   Headquarters:: London, England, UK

   Another global IT recruitment agency, specializing in providing local IT talent for international businesses is Next Ventures. Since its establishment in 2001, the firm has grown to include eight offices worldwide. The agency focuses on five core IT practice areas: SAP, Business Applications, Cloud & Infrastructure, Development & Integration, and Data. Each area is staffed by multilingual recruitment consultants with deep knowledge of both technology and local cultures.

   Next Ventures’ focus on quality and long-term relationships ensures they prioritize the right match over quick fixes, setting them apart in the industry. By focusing on thoroughly understanding clients and candidates, it has become a trusted partner for some of the largest enterprises and consultancies globally.

   Key features

   • Broad international reach with offices in London, Germany, France, Switzerland, the USA, Brazil and the Netherlands.
   • Excels in five core IT practice areas, allowing consultants to develop deep expertise in specific technology sectors.
   • Provides local IT talent with the technical skills and cultural understanding needed to integrate seamlessly into global teams.

   Do you have IT recruitment needs?

   🎧 Schedule a meeting

   With our top selections for IT recruitment in Europe covered, let’s explore additional agencies that also offer valuable services to meet your business’s hiring needs.

5. Salt

   

   Website: www.welovesalt.com
   Team size: ~1150 employees
   Founded: 2010
   Headquarters: London, England, UK

   Salt is a well-established name in digital recruitment, specializing in connecting businesses with top-tier digital talent. The company aims to address immediate hiring needs while shaping the future of businesses and candidates in the evolving digital landscape. With 22 offices across five continents, including key locations in Australia, Germany, South Africa, and the USA, Salt operates on a global scale while offering a personalized touch through its extensive local networks. Salt also manages large-scale hiring through its Digital Recruitment Outsourcing (DRO) and Digital Managed Services (DMS) models, streamlining talent acquisition for large projects.

   Salt focuses on helping businesses navigate digital disruption and transformation by sourcing talent for roles in technology, sales, marketing, and creative industries. Their expertise extends to transformation and change roles in HR, business consulting, and operations. Additionally, Salt is a pioneer in promoting diversity, offering unconscious bias training and organizing diversity-focused events. Whether for contract, freelance, or permanent roles, Salt excels in finding the right talent quickly, using a proactive approach that combines talent acquisition with diversity and inclusion strategies.

   Key features

   • Operates in 22 locations across 15 countries, combining local expertise with global reach.
   • Pioneers in promoting diversity, including unconscious bias training and diversity-focused events.
   • Salt manages large-scale hiring through Digital Recruitment Outsourcing (DRO) and Digital Managed Services (DMS).

6. Creative Personnel

   

   Website: www.creativepersonnel.co.uk
   Team size: ~35 employees
   Founded: 2000
   Headquarters: London, England, UK

   Creative Personnel is a specialist recruitment agency focusing on the Digital Marketing, Creative, Audiovisual and Games sectors. For over 20 years, they’ve connected top-tier talent with some of the most exciting companies in these creative industries, offering permanent, contract, and freelance opportunities. As part of The MCG Group, Creative Personnel is dedicated to understanding the specific needs of its clients and candidates, ensuring a personalized and seamless recruitment experience.

   They prioritize building meaningful relationships to help both companies and candidates succeed, ensuring the perfect fit in every hire. With a strong industry presence and knowledge, Creative Personnel has placed thousands of professionals in roles within the digital marketing, creative, audiovisual and games industries, continuing to serve as a trusted partner in the ever-evolving creative sector.

   Key features

   • Over 20 years of expertise in Digital Marketing, Creative, Audiovisual and Games industries.
   • Offers permanent, contract, and freelance opportunities in creative fields.
   • Strong focus on relationship-building to ensure a positive impact on both clients and candidates.

7. Sphere Digital Recruitment

   

   Website: www.spheredigitalrecruitment.com
   Team size: ~160 employees
   Founded: 2012
   Headquarters: London, England, UK

   Sphere Digital Recruitment is an award-winning agency specializing in matching talent with roles in marketing, sales, analytics, product, and creative sectors. Operating across the UK, Europe, and North America, Sphere is renowned for its ability to source talent for both permanent roles and short-term contract solutions in fast-moving digital industries. The agency’s deep understanding of the evolving digital landscape allows them to provide tailored recruitment solutions that help businesses grow their digital teams while supporting professionals in advancing their careers.

   Sphere’s approach centers on building meaningful relationships with clients and candidates alike, ensuring that every placement is a strong match for both parties. By offering flexible recruitment options, including permanent and contract roles, Sphere stays adaptable to the varying needs of businesses, helping them navigate digital disruption with agility. Recognized for excellence in digital recruitment, Sphere continues to help companies find the right talent to drive innovation and growth.

   Key highlights

   • Engages in recruiting marketing, sales, analytics, product, and creative talent.
   • Offers both permanent roles and short-term contract solutions.
   • Recognized for excellence in digital recruitment.

8. Antal International

   

   Website: www.antal.com
   Team size: ~2090 employees
   Founded: 1993
   Headquarters: London, England, UK

   Antal International is a global executive search and recruitment firm with over 130 offices in more than 30 countries. It has been a pioneer in the recruitment industry for over three decades, specializing in mid-to-senior-level roles across various sectors. With a vast global network and deep industry expertise, Antal delivers recruitment solutions tailored to both local and international clients’ specific needs. Operating in over 75 countries, Antal connects businesses with highly skilled professionals.

   Key highlights

   • Global reach with 130 offices across 30+ countries, including major European hubs.
   • Accomplished in mid-to-senior-level recruitment across sectors like IT, Finance, and Pharmaceuticals.
   • Deep local market knowledge ensures culturally aligned talent acquisition and regulatory compliance.

9. CPL

   

   Website: www.cpl.com
   Team size: ~4480 employees
   Founded: 1989
   Headquarters: Dublin, Ireland

   CPL, a well-regarded European talent solutions provider, operates in 14 countries, including key markets such as Germany, Belgium, Poland, and the United Kingdom. The company offers a wide range of services, including specialist recruitment, managed services, outsourcing, and strategic talent advisory, helping organizations navigate the evolving work landscape. Through its Future of Work Institute, CPL delivers expert insights on emerging workforce trends. Known for its commitment to employee experience, diversity, and sustainability, CPL is widely respected across Europe and continues to expand its reach.

   Key highlights

   • Operates in 14 countries, including key European markets like Germany, Poland, and the UK.
   • Offers services such as specialist recruitment, managed services, outsourcing, and strategic talent advisory.
   • Recognized for its commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and enhancing employee experience.

10. Darwin Recruitment

    

    Website: www.darwinrecruitment.com
    Team size: ~150 employees
    Founded: 2001
    Headquarters: Billericay, Essex, UK

    Founded in 2001, Darwin Recruitment is a global STEM recruitment agency specializing in sectors like Technology, Renewable Energy, Life Sciences, Space & Satellite, and Engineering. With a strong presence in Europe and the USA, the company provides innovative recruitment solutions tailored to evolving business needs. Darwin Recruitment also provides services like Employed Leasing and Global Payroll, showcasing its dedication to supporting industries with exceptional talent solutions.

    Key highlights

    • Operates in Europe and the USA, connecting businesses with talent across key STEM sectors.
    • Provides specialized services in Technology, Renewable Energy, Life Sciences, Space & Satellite, and Engineering.
    • Offers additional services, including Employed Leasing and Global Payroll, to meet diverse client needs.

11. Optimus Search

    

    Website: www.optimussearch.com
    Team size: ~205 employees
    Founded: 2005
    Headquarters: London, England, UK

    Optimus Search is a leading executive search firm established in 2005, specializing in Digital, Data, and Life Sciences recruitment services. The company focuses on identifying and securing top-tier tech talent across Europe, connecting them with exciting business opportunities. With offices in London, Berlin, and Frankfurt, Optimus Search aligns its recruitment process with client brand values to ensure a perfect match between candidates and organizations.

    Key highlights

    • Primarily involved in three divisions: Digital, Data, and Life Sciences, offering tailored recruitment services.
    • Strong presence in the UK and Germany, successfully placing thousands of technical specialists across Europe.
    • Their recruitment process aligns with client brand values to ensure both technical and cultural compatibility.

12. IC Resources

    

    Website: www.ic-resources.com
    Team size: ~210 employees
    Founded: 1999
    Headquarters: Reading, Berkshire, UK

    Established in 1999, IC Resources is an independent recruitment firm focused on connecting skilled talent with deep-tech companies worldwide. With a focus on long-term relationships and extensive market knowledge, the firm employs 70 specialist consultants dedicated to the software, semiconductor, and electronics sectors. IC Resources positions itself as a valuable partner in the technology community, prioritizing the long-term success of both candidates and clients.

    Key highlights

    • Well-versed in recruitment for software, semiconductor, and electronics sectors, covering technical operations, sales, marketing, and IT.
    • Focuses on building long-term relationships to ensure mutual success for candidates and clients.
    • Employs 70 specialist consultants with deep market knowledge, offering tailored recruitment solutions.

Bottom line

DevsData LLC is recognized as one of the leading recruitment agencies in Europe, with a strong focus on the IT sector. With over 8 years of experience in the market, the agency has built a robust network and deep expertise, enabling efficient connections between organizations and top talent. Headquartered in New York and Warsaw, with offices across various European countries, DevsData LLC leverages its international presence to tap into a diverse pool of candidates, ensuring clients find the perfect fit for their specific needs.

One of the key benefits of partnering with them is their impressive database of over 65000 pre-screened professionals. This extensive resource allows the agency to operate efficiently in a fast-paced hiring landscape, significantly reducing time-to-hire—an essential factor for companies aiming to maintain a competitive advantage. The meticulous selection process includes comprehensive 90-minute technical interviews, resulting in an acceptance rate of less than 6%. This rigorous approach guarantees that clients receive only the most qualified candidates tailored to their unique organizational requirements.

DevsData LLC serves a wide range of clients, including hedge funds, multinational corporations, and innovative startups from various regions, such as the US and Israel. This diverse clientele underscores the agency’s versatility and ability to adapt to varying industry demands. Their commitment to understanding each client’s distinct needs enables them to craft customized recruitment solutions that foster success. With a proven track record of over 100 projects for 80+ clients, DevsData LLC consistently delivers exceptional recruitment solutions.

Furthermore, the agency boasts the highest satisfaction ratings on platforms like Clutch and GoodFirms, attesting to the quality of their work and dedication to excellence. DevsData LLC has collaborated with companies across industries, from fashion to finance, and has recently achieved remarkable results for a client in algorithmic trading within the cryptocurrency market, leading to the hiring of more candidates than originally planned.

In summary, DevsData LLC connects organizations with top IT talent through a thorough selection process that ensures a high standard of candidates. Their diverse portfolio and versatile team, including US specialists, highlight their adaptability across sectors, while high satisfaction ratings confirm their dedication to quality service.

To connect with DevsData LLC, email them at general@devsdata.com or visit their website at www.devsdata.com.

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Elen Muradyan Copywriter and Marketer

As a versatile and accomplished writer with 3+ years of experience in digital media publishing, Elene is skilled in crafting engaging content across various subjects, styles, and media. In her previous experience, Elene worked closely with editorial teams and visual artists to bring content to life. She always seeks opportunities for personal and professional growth and is eager to contribute to the writing field.

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