Top Executive Recruiters for Hospitality in London
Senior leadership hires in hospitality require deep industry knowledge, cultural insight and often a discreet, personalised approach.
London’s hospitality scene is internationally renowned, and finding the right executive search firm can significantly impact hiring success.
Naturally, as an executive recruitment firm ourselves, we couldn’t resist pulling this list together. Yes, we’ve included ourselves, and we’re genuinely glad you found us. If you're still exploring your options, we hope you’ll give us a shot.
Below are the top 10 executive recruiters in London who consistently deliver senior-level talent to hotels, restaurants, private clubs and luxury F&B brands.
1. Portico Executive Search
Portico Executive Search specialises in senior roles across luxury hotels, resorts, members’ clubs and F&B groups.
Founder Matt Glodz personally manages every search, offering a high-touch, one-on-one experience. With a background in executive career consulting, hotel development and airline revenue management - alongside a degree from Cornell’s School of Hotel Administration - he brings a rare blend of industry insight and executive recruitment expertise.
2. James & Cranwell
James & Cranwell offers discreet, tailored headhunting for senior roles in luxury hospitality.
With offices in London and Dubai, they recruit for C-suite, hotel general management, culinary leadership and private estate positions. Their consultative, network-driven method reflects a deep tie to the global hospitality luxury sphere.
https://www.jamesandcranwell.com
3. Smyth & Co
Smyth & Co specialises in placing senior talent in luxury hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants and members’ clubs.
Founded in 2019 and based in London, they offer executive search, HR consulting and brand strategy, with strong capabilities in operations, marketing and PR roles in premium hospitality.
4. Iridium Executive Search
Iridium Executive Search is a boutique global recruitment firm focused on senior appointments in the luxury hospitality sector.
They work with leading hotels, resorts and fine dining groups to place senior talent in operations, brand leadership and executive management roles. Known for their tailored approach and deep international network, Iridium supports businesses seeking strategic, long-term hires across the hospitality landscape.
5. COREcruitment
COREcruitment is a global hospitality and leisure recruitment agency with a strong London presence.
Their executive division recruits senior leaders in general management, marketing, finance, HR and commercial roles. Well-positioned to support multinational hires and large-scale operations, they’re a trusted choice for global hospitality brands.
6. Stone Executive
Stone Executive provides corporate-style executive search for hotels, resorts and restaurant groups.
Their consultants recruit senior roles in operations, finance, commercial and board-level appointments, combining sector expertise with business acumen. They are especially effective for businesses undergoing transformation or expansion.
https://www.stoneexecutive.co.uk
7. Nuvani London
Nuvani London is a boutique executive search firm known for high-touch recruitment for 5-star and luxury properties.
They specialise in senior roles across operations, F&B, guest services and development, with careful emphasis on cultural fit and brand alignment. Their personalised service model makes them a strong partner for high-profile hospitality organisations.
8. Renard International
Since 1970, Renard International has specialised in hospitality executive search.
Their veteran team recruits senior executives across operations, finance and culinary leadership. With a database of over 200,000 industry professionals, they are one of the most globally connected executive recruiters in the field, serving both independent properties and major hospitality brands.
https://www.renardinternational.com
9. Change Hospitality Recruitment
Change Hospitality delivers permanent senior placements across London’s hotels, restaurants, bars and service venues.
Known for swift, strategic recruitment and a deep understanding of the London hospitality market, they offer tailored solutions for executive roles in operations, marketing and culinary management.
https://www.thechangegroup.com
10. JWR Recruitment
JWR specialises in executive and senior roles in F&B operations, finance, HR, revenue management and general management.
With offices across the UK and a significant presence in London, they also offer high-level chef recruitment. Their broad sector reach and structured approach make them a go-to partner for long-term talent strategies.
Why These Firms Stand Out
Sector Expertise: Each agency is deeply embedded in the hospitality industry, focusing specifically on senior roles in hotels, restaurants and luxury venues.
Tailored Service: Many operate with a boutique model, allowing them to offer a more bespoke, high-touch experience.
Discretion and Precision: These firms are trusted to handle confidential searches and deliver top-tier leadership talent.
Strategic Recruitment: Their placements are aligned with brand culture, long-term business objectives and guest experience standards.
For hospitality organisations in London looking to hire senior leadership, these executive search firms offer unparalleled insight, personal attention and access to a world-class talent network.
Whether you’re filling a GM role at a luxury hotel or building a C-suite team for a global restaurant brand, working with a recruiter who understands your business can make all the difference.
