“Our success is measured by our superior ability to place the best talent within your organisation and that they stay”
The single most important driver of organisational performance is talent. What makes and keeps companies successful is not the technology, products, capital or systems – it’s being able to source, recruit and retain the best people.
At Underwood Executive our expertise is in the identification, enticement and recruitment of executive talent. We specialise in sourcing talent where we partner with organisations that value the importance of recruiting and retaining high performing employees. Our up-to-date research and progressive sourcing strategies ensure that we unearth the best talent, giving our clients access to the Underwood Executive talent community, which reaches beyond the active market.
Our role is to identify and source the best people in the market to help build your organisation. A vigorous screening and selection process ensures that we actively assess not only skills and experience, but core competencies, transferable skills and motivational fit as well. This holistic approach clearly separates the talent most suitable for your business requirements, culture and long-term fit.
Our approach to talent management ensures we operate as your trusted advisor, contributing to your company success through sourcing the best talent the market has to offer.
Securing the right people in the right roles is only one part of a bigger people picture. Our commitment extends further than this as we are invested in working with your new talent to encourage engagement, performance and long-term retention.
Our specialty is working with clients who value our peer relationship and are invested in a mutually respectful partnership. We consult beyond a traditional transactional recruitment model, where our clients believe that having the right people is the key to their business success and are invested in building high performance teams.
Our recent assignments and expertise span across the following sectors:
• Not for Profit
• Community Services
• Local Government
• State Government
• Banking & Financial Services
• Professional Services
• Marketing & Sales
• PR & Communications
• Construction & Property
• Mining & Infrastructure
• Consumer, Wine & Agriculture
• Education
• Health & Aged Care
• Mining & Resources
• Oil & Gas
• Technical & Engineering
• Consumer, Wine & Agriculture
“I recently relocated to Adelaide and have had the pleasure of dealing with Underwood Executive. It has been my first experience on the job-seeker side of a recruitment and I cannot speak highly enough of the professional, personable service I have received. My experience with your organisation has challenged my misgivings about recruitment agencies, though I suspect I’d be hard pressed to receive the same level of engagement and support at other recruitment firms.
I have had more direct dealings with the Consultants and they consistently went beyond the call of duty to ensure I was fully informed at every stage of the recruitment process. They have been beyond supportive, responsive and proactive, and I have thoroughly enjoyed my dealings with them.
I would unreservedly recommend your organisation to anyone as a result of my dealings.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“From our point of view the whole recruitment experience and working with you has been very positive. I have particularly appreciated your thorough and transparent approach, ongoing communication and the flexibility to accommodate our needs around meetings and candidate reporting. I look forward to working with you again.”
ClientExecutive Search
“I would love to pass on some feedback about how awesome the team at Underwood Executive has been. They are amazing, always friendly, helpful and I really do feel like that they went completely above and beyond for me. My consultant squeezed me into her day last minute after an initial chat, had an interview set up for me yesterday and an offer today...I still can’t believe she achieved it all in such a short amount of time. I also appreciate that the Team reached out to me in the first instance. I can’t speak more highly of the Underwood Executive Team and want to thank them very much for helping me secure this great opportunity in my career!”
CandidateExecutive Search
“Nicole had a tailored approach and took the time to understand not just the brief, but the culture of our organisation and the executive team dynamics. Rather than simply “cast the net” there was targeted search and as a result we were presented with a well-qualified group of possible candidates, that may not have surfaced via a traditional advertising approach”
CEOExecutive Search
“It has been a really great process working with Underwood Executive. The communication with the Consultants is excellent and they have kept me informed all the way through a rigorous process. It has been excellent to observe and be assured that Underwood Executive does all the necessary employment checks in detail.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“Getting to know the team at Underwood Executive was highly valuable, they are extremely professional, friendly and make you feel at ease.
CandidateExecutive Search
Even though I wasn’t successful in the recruitment process, I felt like I was legitimately beaten by a better candidate, which gives you confidence towards the next interview process. I found the whole process very encouraging and certainly felt like Underwood Executive represented you as much as their clients.”
“We engaged Underwood Executive for an executive search campaign as they have a great reputation in the industry, for their professionalism and that they get results. We were kept in the loop at all times and their customer focus was excellent and very thorough. The executive consultants were outstanding and I wouldn’t have changed a thing in the process.”
CEO - Client Executive Search
“Unfortunately in my own job search experience, 33% of firms I contact never acknowledge my approach, and a further 40% respond with an auto rejection letter. The recruitment business seems very much focused on matching simplistic data points and forgetting there is a person behind all that information.
My treatment with Underwood Executive was vastly different. The regular calls and emails, along with the upbeat and open tone gave me the impression the candidate was appreciated in the process.
I want to wish the team continued success in the search and recruitment industry. My experience was more positive than many other firms I’ve dealt with, and I will be a strong advocate for Underwood Executive when asked.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“I can't speak more highly of the team at Underwood Executive. They are lovely to deal with, professional, unbiased, inclusive, fair and considerate. They are always great at getting back to me throughout the whole process.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“My experience in dealing with Underwood Executive was very positive, and one of the main drivers for progressing through the role was the way in which the process was handled. The team had an in-depth knowledge of the organisational culture and expectations; they seemed to know what was required in the role and the type of person that would be successful.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“Underwood Executive have an excellent customer focus and are very thorough – I was kept in the loop at all times. There is nothing you could improve on or do more effectively next time, you were outstanding.”
ClientExecutive Search
“I have used many different recruitment consultancies for filling positions in my own teams, but it’s been over 20 years since I have been ‘the candidate’ represented through an agency.
Since my first meeting with Underwood Executive, I have had nothing but a positive and professional experience. The team are a pleasure to work with, a natural and caring demeanour combined with keeping me informed along the process, made a world of difference. Nicole and her team represented Underwood Executive with the utmost professionalism and care. They are knowledgeable in the role and the organisations they represent and at the same time, was able to balance my requirements and expectations. Their friendly persona and ability to connect with me helped me feel comfortable throughout the process. They always kept me in the loop inside and outside of work hours. I would love to keep in touch with Underwood Executive in the future.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“The team at Underwood were professional, courteous and genuinely interested in making sure the role was the right fit. I was given plenty of opportunity to seek clarity on the role and to ensure that my skillset was a good match; this showed they were working well on both sides of the recruiting table and not just trying to find a warm body to throw into the position.
Everyone showed warmth and genuine care, and great enthusiasm when the process was underway. There was also excellent communication along the way which helped when the process took a bit longer than I had anticipated. Was able to keep the dream alive!”
CandidateExecutive Search
“Underwood Executive have a great reputation for their professionalism – and they get results!”
ClientExecutive Search
“From my initial phone interview from the team at Underwood Executive, to receiving the call from the Senior Consultant as being the successful candidate, I have been blown away by the professionalism, understanding and support I have been provided with.
Going into an interview scenario is always daunting, however once I sat down with the consulting team for the first interview, they instantly made me feel calm and allowed my best self to come forward.
I know a recruitment consultant’s priority is to always look after their clients first. I didn’t feel this was the case with Underwood Executive, I felt like I was really cared for within the process and that not only was the client a priority, but my needs also. I really respected and valued this about Underwood Executive.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“My experience was very positive throughout. The team at Underwood Executive was excellent to deal with and made me feel very comfortable from initial contact, right through to the end of the process.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“My consultant at Underwood Executive was friendly, professional and very understanding. She was very transparent throughout the process, keeping me well informed and providing regular updates.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“The team at Underwood Executive are very friendly, yet professional. They put me at ease during my initial meeting/interview and in liaising between myself and the employer was extremely good at being an advocate for both parties, whilst keeping the process moving.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“I want to say thank you for your service. You have been the most personable and caring recruiter that I have dealt with. You have always kept me informed and showed genuine interest about how the meetings/ interviews have gone, when I have had them. I have really appreciated your style from the first time we met. Thank you.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“I want to thank you for all of your efforts and support in getting me to and through this process. You have both been remarkable to me through all of this, and I found the process clear, communicated efficiently, and have felt well supported throughout.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“I just wanted to make sure that my appreciation for your commitment, support and professionalism during the recruitment process was acknowledged by me. I am incredibly thankful that I have been able to have an experience with your business, your people and your integrity, thank you. I want to briefly thank everyone involved, for the following experiences I had;
1. Nicole, for making yourself available for interviews, questions and feedback during the recruitment process, I know I was one of many candidates/roles that you manage, but your availability made me feel your genuine interest in the process and in my success.
2. The Underwood Executive Team, for their authenticity, energy and reassurance throughout the process. Their clear communication, humour and happiness, made the process enjoyable, pleasant and real. You are all a real asset to the Underwood Executive business, and I appreciate how you’ve dealt with sensitive, personal and emotional changes in peoples working life – you’ve made it so enjoyable and easy.
Thanks Nicole and to your staff who work in the background, and your dealings with people – personally and professionally.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“I haven’t been particularly good at “selling myself” in the past. The difference with Underwood Executive was that I was made to feel so relaxed and comfortable – almost like I had known Nicole and her team for many years beforehand – and this allowed me to open up, be honest and articulate my thoughts clearly.
I would absolutely recommend Underwood Executive to anyone looking to hire senior positions who wants to cover off on all bases!
CandidateExecutive Search
”
“The executive search process was made quite easy for us as Underwood did all of the work. Due to their network and their way of working, I believe that we had access to much better talent than if we had conducted our normal recruitment process.”
ClientExecutive Search
“My experience with Underwood Executive was that they were friendly, easy to talk to and provided feedback. It was a very simple and quick process, and they completed a more in-depth initial interview than other consultants do.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“My consultant was always very friendly and helpful. I really appreciated how personable and human she was throughout the process. Rather than focusing on filling a role, it felt to me like she really cared about finding a job for me that fitted. While I have never had the experience of getting a role through a recruiter, in all those cases, the contact suddenly stopped when it became clear that there was no match. What I particularly enjoyed about Underwood Executive is how friendly they are, how they showed that they cared, how the team made me feel at ease during the process, and their willingness to answer any questions I had.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“I had a really positive experience dealing with Underwood Executive. I felt well prepared for the interviews and appreciated the feedback I was given. My consultant was very personable, provided relevant information in a friendly manner and was open and transparent throughout the process. She was supportive, understanding, communicative and responsive. I felt there was a genuine interest in my progression as a candidate and I would not hesitate to recommend Underwood Executive! ”
CandidateExecutive Search
“My experience was excellent. Underwood were friendly and welcoming, yet professional and diligent team. The Consultant immediately made me feel relaxed when I stepped into the interview room, which really enabled me to forget any nerves and perform to the best of my ability.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“The team at Underwood Executive are very professional and Nicole is a great coach - she was super helpful and encouraging. It's Underwood's personalised and responsive approach that sets them apart. ”
CandidateExecutive Search
“My experience in dealing with Underwood Executive was extremely positive. My consultant walked me through the recruitment process, providing great support and direction as well as continual updates on where the process was at, keeping me informed at all times. Her warm, yet professional approach allowed me to demonstrate the best of myself.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“We decided to outsource the search for this role based on a number of factors including in-house capacity, market insights and brand considerations. Underwood Executive have local market knowledge, a consultative approach and wide candidate reach. I would definitely partner with Underwood Executive again – they are excellent”
ClientExecutive Search
“Underwood Executive was excellent at managing the process throughout the entire campaign. She was always very responsive and managed communications in a timely and efficient manner. The whole process felt very personalised, and my consultant was authentic in her dealings with me. She seemed to have a very deep understanding of the hiring organisation and the role, which made it a very easy process for me to work with. Absolutely, I would highly recommend Underwood Executive.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“The consulting team were open and honest throughout the whole process. I was kept informed at all stages.”
Candidate
“We have a long standing relationship with Nicole and her wonderful team...when you are on a good thing, stick to it! It is always no fuss, no noise when recruiting with the Underwood Executive. They take the time to really understand what the role criteria is and the culture of our business.”
Client
“We engaged Underwood Executive because of their reputation in the Adelaide market for providing outstanding services in relation to senior executive recruitment.
Underwood provided a personal service: they were friendly, engaged and empathetic. They were able to develop a relationship with key stakeholders in a short period of time, were well-planned and had a bespoke approach. They provided succinct and constructive updates and advice throughout the process”
ClientExecutive Search
“We were looking for someone who could provide us with a different approach to our recruiting challenges and Underwood Executive were suggested by a colleague. Underwood Executive provided an end to end recruitment service that took pressure off our staff. We awarded 4 projects to Underwood Executive and HR recruitment was something that Underwood had good experience with and a solid understanding of the candidate pool.”
Client
“When I've worked with other recruiters in the past, there have significant periods without any communication. As a candidate you are left 'hanging' (even as a short listed or successful candidate!) and left feeling like the process is more about filling the role rather than emphasis on fit, personal style, expectations, etc. There is stark difference between a ‘Recruitment Agency’ and the Underwood Executive experience.”
Candidate
“My consultant was beyond exceptional. At all times, I felt kept in the loop, supported and I felt she was really making sure it was the right role for me and for the business. The process happened exceptionally quickly, and the Underwood Executive team was so flexible and so responsive to the rapid pace. It was a real pleasure to connect and work alongside such a talented team to find my perfect role.”
Candidate
“We chose to work with Underwood Executive due to their comprehensive proposal, showing a good understanding of the role and our organisation. The vacancy was filled with a high calibre candidate. In fact, we were in the enviable position of having a difficult choice out of two candidates.”
Client
“There were so many benefits to working with Underwood Executive. They had a strong understanding of the core competencies and experience we were after in a candidate and tailored their approach accordingly, delivering a broad field of great candidates through search and ultimately found someone that will be an excellent addition to the Executive team. Nicole really partnered with us to ensure the right outcome was achieved.”
Client
“Underwood Executive offer a personalised service, both from client and candidate perspective. The process end to end was professional and smooth.”
Candidate
“My consultant was very professional, whilst also being friendly and personable. She made the whole process very easy which helped to calm my nerves during the interviews. There was a high level of professionalism and knowledge and it was a quick, seamless process. I wasn't left wondering what was going on at any time.”
Candidate
“I was confident that Nicole understood what I was looking for in my next career move. I trusted her honesty and understanding of the market, and her network to guide me. During the process, Nicole kept me informed and I felt her approach was personalised to me. She provided good insight into the company I was considering, which allowed me to make an informed decision. I recommend Nicole and Underwood Executive for their trust, honesty and confidentiality to achieve the best outcome for all parties.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“The Underwood Executive team were very efficient and thorough. They were all very personable, down to earth and took the time to truly understand the candidate as much as possible to ensure the fit of the potential client. I would be more than happy to recommend or use Underwood for my next recruitment role or similar services.”
ClientExecutive Search
“We engage Underwood Executive as they understand our business, culture, background and purpose which gives us confidence that we are on the same page with the type of candidate we are seeking. The benefit to us is in the knowledge the UE are representing our business with the same professionalism we would like presented to candidates in the first instance. We will continue to use UE because of the ease of communication, confidence and professionalism”
ClientExecutive Search
“Nicole and the team at Underwood Executive were exceptional from my initial inquiry about the role, through to the final interview stage. The team were committed to delivering both the client’s and candidate’s best outcome, with communication clear and follow-up timely. I would absolutely recommend Underwood Executive for their authenticity. It was clear that this was more than just a job for the Underwood team.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“In the space of less than a couple of weeks, I went from not really applying for jobs to having a new job that I am extremely excited about. The Underwood Executive team were extremely pleasant, professional, thorough and efficient and managed to take me through the entire process in a way that was completely painless.
I particularly liked the fact that Underwood Executive made sure that I was the right fit for the client, but that the client was also the right fit for me.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“Nicole and the team at Underwood Executive were a new introduction and we wanted to experience something alternative to our previous engagements. The overall service was personalised, and we were kept up to date along the way. I will use Underwood Executive again for those hard to fill and executive level roles.”
ClientExecutive Search
“I had a positive experience with Underwood Executive, they were very professional and very focussed, as well as great to interact with. I noticed the positive and supportive approach they gave me, which I believe is how they get the best results from their candidates. My consultant’s knowledge of the role and what the CEO was looking for very useful, and the team were very pleasant to work with. I would definitely recommend using Underwood Executive.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“We were looking for someone with strong 'head-hunter' skills who wouldn't run just a passive recruitment campaign, but would actively seek out the best candidates for us.
Underwood Executive has a high-quality candidate pool with excellent candidate care throughout the process.
I am delighted with the service we received from the team at Underwood Executive. I was particularly impressed when an internal candidate, who was very disappointed after missing out and our Consultant reached out to me to let me know, so that we could contact the candidate and work on a pathway to set that candidate up for success in the future. This showed a level of candidate care that I haven't experienced with other consultancies.”
ClientExecutive Search
“The entire process with Underwood Executive, from the initial phone conversation has been truly amazing. They have demonstrated extraordinary professionalism in each and every interaction I have had with them. In particular, I would like to make mention that my consultant, who was not only just lovely to deal with, but honestly created the best candidate experience I have had to date. I was kept up to date and supported throughout.
Working in HR myself I would hands-down use Underwood Executive for future recruiting that I may need to do.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“One word, Excellent! The Underwood Executive team did a fantastic job of putting me forward for roles suited to my skills.
Constant communication, listening to what my passions are and not pushing me forward for roles I wasn't aligned to. The team used their expertise to guide me toward roles that suited my skills, needs and personality.
Underwood Executive were a pleasure to deal with and I appreciated their honestly, transparency and feedback throughout the process. I really appreciated my consultant’s support in helping me prepare in the best possible way for my interviews.
The team at Underwood Executive are amazing. Well done!”
CandidateExecutive Search
“I engaged Underwood Executive for their exceptional Market Mapping capability. This allowed me to access a broader network and higher calibre of candidates, which is critical in a tight market. I also value their independent confidentiality for senior level positions (especially in HR), there is level of confidentially needed to access passive candidates. Underwood Executive were able to source a great range of talented, very high-quality talent. Their professionalism, great service and quality candidate care is the reason I will use them again.”
ClientExecutive Search
“Working with Underwood Executive was a very positive experience, with strong lines of communication and consultation throughout. They are thoughtful, have a relaxed but professional approach and having not done an interview (for myself) in nearly 14 years, it was far from terrifying working with the team.
I was not actively seeking opportunities, but had made myself known to Underwood Executive, that should a suitable opportunity present itself, to keep me in mind. When I was presented with an opportunity, I immediately understood that the team had indeed listened and understood what was important to me in acquiring that next role; and like Cinderella and the Glass Slipper, the company, role and I fit!
I absolutely recommend using Underwood Executive, and I've already referred my colleagues who may be looking for their next opportunity.
CandidateExecutive Search
”
“I felt my consultant’s approach was genuine and supportive which made the recruitment process a very pleasant one. There was consistent communication regarding process updates and regular check-ins. Overall, my experience with Underwood Executive was professional, engaging, and genuine. I would be happy to recommend their services to my network.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“My firsthand experience with Underwood Executive’s professionalism, courtesy and care made my experience a positive one. Their frequent updates regarding the progress of my application at each stage (including next steps), as well as my consultant’s quick action to my queries, made me feel like a valued candidate. I would certainly recommend Underwood Executive.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“My consultant at Underwood Executive was very helpful and proactive throughout the whole recruitment process. The guidance I received was clear and precise, which I believe helped me succeed in obtaining my new role. The Underwood Executive approach is personalised, genuine and professional.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“My interactions with the consulting team were of high quality. I was kept up to date on the progress and all my questions were answered. My consultant was very down to earth, open and supportive, I would definitely use Underwood Executive in the future.”
CandidateHR Executive
“I chose to engage Underwood Executive due to their experienced consulting team. Underwood Executive targeted candidates in a competitive environment rather than waiting for the candidates to come to them. I would definitely use them again, as they were very effective and efficient.”
ClientExecutive Search
“Underwood Executive was recommended to me by my network. The team were responsive and presented a great field of candidates. We ended up with a fantastic preferred candidate in a short space of time.”
ClientGovernment Executive
“We engaged Underwood Executive as we wanted to conduct executive search, as the market is tight and we didn’t think we would have success through traditional recruitment methods. Our experience with the team was very thorough and professional, from the market map to shortlist and with working within our tight timeline and requirements. We were very happy with the entire process and would certainly use Underwood Executive in the future, due to their experience and performance.”
ClientPeople and Culture Executive
“I chose to re-engage Underwood Executive as I had seen their emphasis on a more sophisticated search approach.
The team managed the whole recruitment process from end to end, giving me a peace of mind. I felt we got a high touch and high quality service. I also thought they managed the virtual interview process very well, as well as the management of the internal candidates.
They are very professional and on brand. I got what was presented in all their marketing, so the experience was what I had expected and hoped for. Most importantly we have secured someone who I anticipate will be a simply outstanding candidate.”
ClientChief Executive Officer
“I have really enjoyed my experience working with my consultant and the team at Underwood Executive. My consultant was able to articulate the role, its requirements and the process very clearly. I felt supported and well informed in relation to expectations throughout the process. My consultant was committed to both the client and myself throughout the process.”
CandidateSenior Account Executive
“I chose to engage Underwood Executive due to previous recruitment experience with my consultant.
The results I saw throughout the recruitment campaign included impartial objectiveness of market, strategies, candidate assessments and experience in attracting and securing suitable candidates.
The team was great to deal with, the process run very smoothly and they were successful in servicing our needs.”
ClientBoard Member
“Underwood have a strong reputation for hiring roles at this level and with this industry background and I have previously used them with great success.
The process is really well bedded down, Nicole and her team are professionals and give a very good steer regarding which candidates are likely to be a good fit for the organisation.
Underwood Executive have really good communication, regular and quick responses. Great list of candidates in what we thought was going to be a very small field.”
ClientHuman Resources Executive
“My experience with Underwood Executive was very professional. Throughout the whole process I felt like my consultant cared about me as an individual as well as the company he was recruiting for.
I would definitely recommend using Underwood Executive.”
Business Development CandidateExecutive Search
“My experience with Underwood Executive was excellent. The consulting team was really east to contact and very responsive. My consultant was very friendly and understood the role well.”
CandidateExecutive Search
“We engaged Underwood Executive for their discreet approach to headhunting, so that we could undertake a company restructure without the recruitment becoming common knowledge.
Underwood Executive understood the market well for these roles, and provided advice about how to position the role to find the highest performing talent.”
Aged Care ExecutiveExecutive Search
“I would absolutely recommend Underwood Executive. Their service was outstanding.
My experience with Underwood Executive was amazing. My consultants made me feel comfortable with the process including keeping in touch and providing great tips. I was most impressed with my consultants negotiation ability and his constant check ins.
My experience with Underwood Executive was different compared to past experiences, as I felt the personal touch with the calls, messages and encouragement I received.”
Finance ProfessionalExecutive Search
“We chose to engage Underwood Executive to source our Chief Financial Officer, as we had previously used them as a local executive search provider.
They were professional, reached a good calibre of candidates and were very engaging, which resulted in appointing the best available candidate.
We would definitely use them again for executive appointments.”
Managing DirectorExecutive Search
“Previous relationship with Nicole Underwood, track record of finding excellent executive assistants and a good knowledge of the market are just some of the reasons why we chose to engage Underwood Executive.
My consultants provided great communication, good understanding of the role requirements and lots of patience with our prolonged delayed process. We would absolutely use Underwood Executive again. Great service and quality of candidates. ”
Executive HR ClientExecutive Search
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