Approach &
Values

Take a look at our values and approach to find out more about how we work and what matters to us.

Face to Face

We make the time to meet our clients and candidates in person. While technology makes recruitment more convenient, nothing replaces a genuine conversation when it comes to understanding someone properly. It gives us the insight to look beyond the CV and understand what they can bring to a business, or what they’re looking for in their next role.

Market Insight

Accountancy & Finance is our area of expertise, so we understand the differences between roles, businesses and industries. Job titles can look similar on paper, but the responsibilities behind them can vary significantly from one company to another. Our knowledge of these details helps us understand what each role really involves, identify the experience that matters and make better-matched placements that are more likely to last.

Understanding your business?

Job descriptions only tell part of the story. We take the time to understand the business behind the role, including its culture, values and working environment. Our relationships with both candidates and clients give us a deeper understanding of what it’s really like to work for a business, from the expectations of the role and the team structure to the benefits and opportunities for progression. This means we can give candidates a more honest and complete picture of the opportunity, while giving our clients a better understanding of what matters to the people they’re looking to hire.

Honesty Policy

Honesty matters to us. Recruitment involves sensitive information and difficult conversations at times, and we believe both candidates and clients deserve straightforward, honest feedback throughout the process. Our reputation is built on being open about what we see, even when the conversation isn’t an easy one. We don’t enjoy delivering bad news, but when it’s necessary, we’ll always aim to explain why and provide constructive feedback that can help you move forward.

Bespoke Approach

We take a tailored approach to every search. We work with candidates to ensure their CV highlights the experience and strengths that matter most, while helping clients shape clear, engaging job descriptions that reflect the role and attract the right people. Through targeted LinkedIn searches, we also connect with talented professionals who may not be actively looking but would consider the right opportunity. It’s recruitment that’s considered, targeted and personal.

Our Network

Our local network is a big part of how we work. Much of our business comes through referrals and long-standing relationships, which can give us access to roles, candidates and businesses that aren’t always advertised elsewhere. With 35 years of recruitment experience and strong connections across the local market, we understand the people, businesses and trends within the sectors we work in. This knowledge helps us look beyond the obvious and make connections that might otherwise be missed.

"After 15 years in finance recruitment across Yorkshire, I've learned that the best placements come from truly understanding both sides. Recently, I worked with an SME who'd struggled with three Finance Managers in two years. The problem wasn't qualifications - it was fit. We took time to understand what had gone wrong and what success really looked like for them. Six months on, their new Finance Manager is driving real change and the team has never been more stable. That's what Willow Recruit is about - creating partnerships that last, not just filling vacancies."

Gemma Watmough
Co-Founder - Willow Recruit
Gemma Watmough

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