Submit a CV
Submit a Job spec
Submit a CV
Submit a Job spec
  • Retained Search

8 min read

Strategic Recruitment Partnership / Retained Search

View all Case Studies

The Challenge

A leading electric vehicle technology company in the UK approached Marcus Webb Associates with some pressing needs to identify and secure two critical hires – a Motor Design Engineer and an Engineering Director / Chief Engineer. Both positions were highly specialised and integral to the next phase of the company’s product development and technical leadership.

These were not roles that could be easily filled through reactive recruitment methods. The company needed a strategic partner capable of conducting a deep and focused search to attract high-calibre talent, many of whom were not actively seeking new roles.

Our Approach

Marcus Webb Associates proposed and delivered a retained search project, enabling a close and collaborative working relationship with the client. This model allowed for a thorough, structured and proactive approach to hiring, including:

    • Detailed Briefing & Requirement Review: Multiple planning sessions were held with the client to clarify the role profiles, define success criteria and manage expectations at each stage of the process.
    • Talent Pipeline Activation: We leveraged our existing network of pre-qualified, passive candidates built through prior talent pipelining activities, re-engaging those with relevant skillsets and cultural alignment.
    • Market Mapping: A full market scan was undertaken to identify additional potential candidates across several geographical locations, including competitors, and other related sectors.
    • Ongoing Search Reviews: We held regular update meetings with the client to refine the search, assess shortlisted candidates, and ensure alignment between the evolving project needs and candidate capabilities.

The Outcome

Both vacancies were successfully filled and the client secured:

  • A Principal Motor Design Engineer with deep domain expertise in electric propulsion systems.
  • An Engineering Director with a proven track record in leading high-performing engineering teams within the EV and powertrain space.

What began as a complex and potentially prolonged hiring process was transformed into a clear, structured, and ultimately successful recruitment project.

Key Benefits of the Retained Model

For the Client:

  • Greater focus and accountability from all involved within the project.
  • Priority access to passive candidates and previously pipelined talent.
  • Structured project management, including progress reporting and market insights.
  • Reduced time-to-hire and risk of mis-hire through upfront collaboration and calibration.

For Candidates:

  • A more consultative, personalised recruitment experience.
  • Clear communication and role understanding from the outset.
  • Confidence in the recruitment process and its long-term outcomes.

Conclusion

This case demonstrates how a retained recruitment partnership with Marcus Webb Associates turned two niche, business-critical hiring challenges into successful appointments. By combining deep market knowledge, existing candidate relationships and a collaborative approach, we delivered high-impact results that have contributed directly to the client’s continued growth and innovation in the EV sector.