The Senior & Executive Appointments Team

Michael Thomas

Michael Thomas

Director - bpesearch

​Michael leads the Industry & Manufacturing Practice for bpesearch working in both consumer and industrial markets to deliver leadership assignments across Operations, Supply Chain, Engineering and Technical functions as well as General Management and MD appointments. Before joining the team, Michael had built his extensive network and expertise through lead roles in global plc, executive search and privately owned recruitment businesses including a successful spell co-running his own venture. Michael has a reputation for quality of service, integrity and professionalism and his approach is honest, constructive and consultative. He prides himself on delivering high quality shortlists and on building lasting, mutually beneficial partnership within his network.An avid runner, Michael has completed numerous half marathons and has his sights firmly set on the next London Marathon.

Rachel O'Sullivan

Rachel O'Sullivan

Board Director

I have built an exceptional reputation internally and externally since joining the Group in 2010. Now a Board Director, my expertise spans retail, e-com, hospitality and leisure sectors and I have a first class network throughout marketing and digital functions in particular. My clients range from major high street retailers to emerging scale-ups and disruptors and I've helped many individuals transition between the twoI'm not afraid to challenge traditional thinking and try to bring a fresh perspective to my client’s search criteria and I have a strong track record in helping women to secure leadership positions. I would like to think I have an incredible work ethic and a honest approach and this has proved a very successful combination throughout my career, and for that reason, I'm often the chosen recruitment partner for many businesses and candidates alike.

Paul Bendelow

Paul Bendelow

Partner - bpesearch & Board Director, Better Placed

With over 20 years’ experience recruiting across Marketing, Sales, Data and Digital. He was the founding Director of bpesearch in 2007 with the backing of the Better Placed owners. He focuses on working with corporate and commercial clients in the business services, finance and consumer arena.As an established and proven executive recruitment specialist, with a style and approach that reflects the values and beliefs of bpesearch, Paul has an established portfolio of clients across the UK and an enviable network of candidates at Director and Board level across FTSE 100 through to entrepreneurial and PE backed firms.

Alex Hamilton

Alex Hamilton

Director

​Why did you join Better Placed? :I joined Better Placed after returning to the UK following 2 years of travelling. I spent a year living in the French Alpes working for a ski company / perfecting my skiing technique and the following year travelling around South East Asia. Better Placed appealed to me due to their reputation in the market, after exploring a number of different marketing recruitment businesses it was clear Better Placed had existing relationships with a vast number of exciting FMCG / Consumer brands across the country!Why send me your CV :I have relationships with a whole variety of companies from large blue chip Food organisations to exciting entrepreneurial start ups! All of which I am happy to discuss. I also offer a more tailored approach to many other recruiters where I will work proactively on your behalf to provide a spectrum of interesting opportunities which may not have been otherwise available.The one thing you don’t know about me?I have ridden an ostrich!

Andy Young

Andy Young

Partner - bpesearch

Andy is a Partner within bpesearch and also of our Consumer Practice and brings a wealth of specialist sector experience. His core focus has been across FMCG businesses in particular, but his remit also spans into private equity, Direct to Consumer and SME’s (particularly where founder / owners are still in situ) in both food and “non food” organisations.He has partnered with local and international board members to deliver leadership talent at General Management and functional Director level for organisations of all sizes from plc to start-up. It is this track record, combined with his commitment to fostering long term, sustainable relationships that has enabled Andy to build a reputation for integrity and transparency as well as an unswerving commitment to delivering for both clients and candidates alike.Previously, Andy has operated in sales and marketing roles with Diageo, Pladis / United Biscuits and Coca Cola before making the move into Executive Search.Andy is married to Emily, living together with their two teenage daughters and “Darcy Valentine”, the 42 year-old family cat.

Beccie Perring

Beccie Perring

Office Manager

I am an experienced Office Manager and Executive Assistant with a passion for efficiency, organisation, and seamless operations. My role is not just about managing tasks; it's about orchestrating the smooth running of our office environment while providing the best support to our leadership team.  As Office Manager, my responsibilities include a breadth of crucial tasks aimed at enhancing the functionality of our workplace. From overseeing administrative processes to managing office supplies and facilities, my role is key to keeping our business running smoothly. Whether it's coordinating logistics for company-wide events, maintaining an organised office environment, or liaising with vendors and suppliers, I ensure that every aspect of our office runs like a well-oiled machine. Working in a successful recruitment business means challenges are inevitable, but I thrive in finding solutions.  As Executive Assistant, I support our Leadership team, providing comprehensive support that enables them to focus on strategic initiatives and key decision-making. From managing complex calendars and scheduling appointments to preparing meticulous reports and presentations, I handle every task with precision and care. Our consultant’s time is valuable, and I make it my mission to optimise it efficiently. This element of my role extends beyond administrative support; I am a strategic partner, adept at anticipating needs, solving problems, and facilitating seamless communication between executives and stakeholders. 

Rob Hill

Rob Hill

Partner at bpesearch & Board Director at Better Placed

​Leads the Consumer & Luxury Practice with personal expertise within FMCG, Retail, Leisure and Travel and a passion for SME’s and PE-backed organisations

Selena Charles

Selena Charles

Finance Director

​My role as Financial Controller covers all areas of Finance including preparation of Management Accounts, reporting, budgeting, cash flow planning as well as liaison with auditors, tax advisors and banks. I am also responsible for the management of the administrative support of the business.​Something you might not know about me. I am a Black belt in Kickboxing!!

Senior & Executive Appointments - Latest Jobs

Head of Business Development - healthcare

City of London

£90000 - £110000 per annum

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Commercial Director

London

Negotiable

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Managing Partner

London

Negotiable

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Senior Consultant

Leeds

Market leading bonus + Excellent benefits package

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Require Interim or Contract Support?

We know that working in the interim, contractor or temporary arena means needing to be agile and posses the ability to move quickly, for both our candidates and clients. That together with still understanding our clients businesses, the specifics around any particular role or project and ultimately been able to offer the right people, at the right time. All our disciplines and areas can offer support and advice in terms of Interim or Contract recruitment, from insight into market dynamics through to day rate and IR35 advice. If you would like to discuss an interim requirement or just have a question on anything related please get in contact.