Flexible Recruitment Pricing Models to Suit Your Hiring Needs
At Pathfinder Recruitment, we understand that every employer has different hiring needs and budget considerations. That’s why we offer a range of pricing models to ensure you receive the best value while securing top ex-military talent. Whether you’re hiring for a single key position or need a long-term recruitment partner, we provide flexible, transparent options to suit your business.
Our Charging Models We offer four main pricing structures, each designed to provide cost-effective and scalable solutions depending on your recruitment needs.
1. Percentage of Salary (Placement Fee)
This is the most common recruitment model, where a fee is charged as a percentage of the candidate’s first-year salary.
How It Works
When we successfully place a candidate, the employer pays a percentage of their salary (typically 15%–20%, depending on the role level and complexity).
For niche or executive roles, the fee may be 25%–30% due to the additional sourcing and vetting effort.
The fee is typically due on the candidate’s start date.
2. Fixed Fee Recruitment
A flat, pre-agreed fee per placement rather than a percentage of salary.
How It Works
We set a fixed price per hire, agreed upon in advance.
This model works well for volume hiring, such as when placing multiple candidates into the same role (e.g., apprenticeships or technician positions).
Common in industries where salaries vary widely, making a percentage-based model impractical.
3. Retained Search (Executive Recruitment)
A structured payment plan for senior and hard-to-fill roles, ensuring priority service and dedicated research.
How It Works
The employer pays in stages (e.g., one-third upfront, one-third on shortlist, one-third upon placement).
Retained searches typically range from 20%–30% of salary, reflecting the specialist nature of the role.
Used for high-level executive hires, niche roles, or sensitive searches where confidentiality is key.
4. Subscription / Recruitment-as-a-Service (RaaS)
A monthly subscription model where the employer pays a fixed recurring fee for ongoing recruitment support.
How It Works
Instead of paying per placement, you pay a monthly fee (e.g., £2,000/month for a minimum 3-month term).
This covers multiple hires, meaning companies can hire as many candidates as needed within the service period.
Includes dedicated recruitment support, candidate pipelines, and hiring strategy advice.
Which Model is Right for You
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Cost savings for bulk hiring, dedicated recruiter support
Candidate Guarantee!
At Pathfinder Recruitment, we understand that hiring the right person is a critical decision – and that things don’t always go to plan. That’s why we offer all our employer clients a 30-day candidate guarantee as standard.
If a candidate placed by us leaves your organisation or is terminated for performance-related reasons within 30 calendar days of their start date, we will:
Provide a one-time free replacement for the same role, or
Offer a partial refund or credit if a suitable replacement cannot be found.
This guarantee applies to all permanent placements and is designed to give you added peace of mind.
Terms apply:
The original invoice must have been paid in full and on time.
The departure must not be due to redundancy, restructuring, or changes to the role.
We must be notified in writing within 7 days of the candidate’s departure.
Our guarantee reflects our commitment to quality recruitment and long-term hiring success.