UK recruitment business the Search Group has today announced that its longstanding CEO Grahame Caswell will be retiring in September. Caswell will be replaced by Richard Vickers, former Regional Managing Director for Page Group plc North America, who will be joining Search as CEO on 23 September.

Grahame has been with the group since leading its first management buy-out in 2000. He led the investment from H2 Equity Partners in May 2017, and has presided over growth in Search Consultancy to over £200 million turnover with 800 staff across 16 offices nationwide.

Incoming CEO Richard Vickers comes with decades of experience of the recruitment industry. Vickers has worked for Page Group plc in both the UK and the US & Canada, most recently as Regional Managing Director, North America since 2012.

In a statement to staff yesterday, Caswell said the appointment was part of his long-term retirement plan. After a short hand-over period he will continue to remain involved with the business as a shareholder and non-executive board member.

Grahame Caswell said: “I have enjoyed almost two decades with Search, and am incredibly proud of what we have achieved, growing from a Scottish regional business to one of the leading talent firms in the UK.

“This is the right moment for me to step away from the business, and I believe the time to welcome a new CEO who will be here longer term to drive and grow this business from the great position it is in today. I truly believe we have found that person in Richard Vickers.

Richard Vickers added: “I am delighted to be joining the Search Group at an incredibly exciting time for everyone in the recruitment industry. What most attracted me to the role was the chance to build upon great foundations and take the group to the next level of success. I am really looking forward to working with the senior teams across the businesses to achieve positive and sustainable growth.”

Patrick Kalverboer, Chairman of Search Group, Managing Partner at H2 Equity Partners said: “The Group has undergone significant changes in recent years, including the acquisition of Henderson Scott, and is well positioned for further growth. I am delighted that Richard Vickers can join us at this time to lead the Group going forward. Grahame’s commitment to find the right person has been absolute and that has resulted in an exceptional appointment for the Group.

“I must take this chance to thank Grahame for his leadership, inspiration and honesty as the CEO of Search Consultancy. He goes onto his well-deserved retirement with my true best wishes and genuine thanks.”