Phoenix x Candr
The Brief
Candr’s relationship with Phoenix officially started in 2025 but it goes back further. Stuart had worked with Nicole and the team at their previous employer before they set up Phoenix - a work winning consultancy specialising in infrastructure, technology, finance, and defence, working with clients in the UK and overseas.
They have over 40 years of combined experience across the founding team. Phoenix made their first hire and now they were looking for their second. This time, they needed someone who could hit the ground running, someone who already had bidding experience. They're super busy, and they wanted someone who could get straight in.
The Process
The search was for a Bid Consultant - someone who could run a process from start to finish. Phoenix needed someone with strong interpersonal skills, because the role involves working across different stakeholders and teams constantly. They also needed someone who could write, someone with a good grasp of the English language, and someone who could be shaped, taught, and developed - growing with Phoenix as the business continues to scale.
We put together a shortlist of candidates ranging in experience. Phoenix reviewed the list and created an interview schedule. Four or five people were interviewed at first stage, which was narrowed down to two candidates at second interview.
The Outcome
An offer was made to Eleanor, who has since started with Phoenix and is getting on great. It's a placement we’re really pleased with and a relationship we’re super glad to continue.
As Phoenix continues to grow and service infrastructure and engineering teams on work winning, we’re looking forward to continuing that partnership.
Nicole Couse
Co Founder
“Working with Stuart at CANDR has been a genuinely positive experience. He took the time to fully understand our business, our culture, and the specific requirements of the role, aligning his approach seamlessly with ours. His preparation of candidates was excellent - everyone he put forward came to us with a clear understanding of our business model and what the role entailed.
Stuart’s communication style is professional, considered, and refreshingly non pushy, which set him apart from many recruiters we’ve worked with in the past. The candidates he provided were consistently well matched to our brief, saving us significant time in the hiring process.
I would highly recommend CANDR Recruitment and Stuart to anyone looking for a thoughtful, well aligned recruitment partner.”