Axis CLC x Candr

The background

This one started with history. Stuart had worked with Chris during his time at ISG, placing several candidates into his team. So when Chris landed as Group Head of Bids at Axis CLC, reconnecting was a natural next step.

Chris has built something worth joining. A tight-knit, talented bid team - people who are serious about work-winning and take real pride in what they do. With private equity backing the business, growth isn't just an ambition. It's the mandate.

The brief

Axis CLC were hiring across almost every level of their bid team:

Bid Coordinator · Junior Writer · Writer · Senior Writer · Bid Team Lead

The challenge wasn't just finding people who could write. Every hire - from Writer upwards - needed to own the full process. Quick-turnaround tenders. Large, complex submissions. End-to-end accountability.

That's a specific profile. And finding it takes more than a job board.

The outcome

We placed two people into the team before the end of 2025. The partnership is ongoing as we head into 2026, and we're proud to be part of what Chris and the team are building.

Here's what Chris, Paul and Joel had to say about working with Candr.

Chris Haynes
Group Head of Bids, Axis CLC

“Stuart is exceptionally organised and communicative, always taking the time to understand exactly what we need so he tailors his search rather than overwhelming us with CVs. His ability to find strong bidding professionals from his wide network has helped us secure fantastic candidates, and his support has made the whole process far easier and far less daunting.”

Joel Blackwood
Bid Writer, Axis CLC

“Stuart was really supportive and helpful during the recruitment process. I have settled into my new role and am very happy with the change and step up in my career. Stuart was very responsive and was always on the ball to get in touch with the hiring team quickly, resulting in me getting interview(s) scheduled quickly, and ultimately getting the job offer. I would definitely recommend Stuart to anyone looking to find the best Bid and Business development jobs.”

Paul Raggett
Senior Bid Writer, Axis CLC

“I’d happily recommend Stuart to anyone searching for their next role, or to employers looking for someone who genuinely cares about finding the right match — in fact, I already have! Having worked as a recruitment consultant myself (many years ago), I know what sets a great recruiter apart, and Stuart is truly exceptional.”