APSCo & MRINetwork join forces to pilot USA-UK split fee platform

What is it? 

The Shared Placement Split Fee Platform is a members-only vacancy marketplace developed jointly by APSCo and MRI Network and supported by WTT Legal, an APSCo Trusted Partner. 

Initially focused on USA-UK collaboration, our longer-term ambition is to extend the platform globally. It enables trusted recruitment firms to collaborate safely on hard-to-fill roles, sharing vacancies and specialist candidate expertise while protecting commercial interests through a robust compliance framework. This is part of the suite of services to support APSCo members diversifying into the US market. 

Who can take part? 

• APSCo or MRI Network members only 

• Firms recruiting within or into the US 

• Suitable for firms of all sizes with specialist candidate expertise 

Why members should get involved? 

1. Generate new revenue 
   Monetise candidate networks beyond your existing client base 
2. Win more work 
   Confidently take on roles outside your immediate specialism 
3. Reduced risk 
   Collaboration supported by robust legal terms and platform agreement 
4. Collaborate with confidence 
   Member-only access, code of conduct, and formal dispute resolution 
5. Access the US market 
   Designed initially for placements into the USA, even when recruiting remotely 

Register your interest:

If you are an APSCo member and recruiting within or into the USA and would be interested in taking part in either the initial pilot (and be part of shaping the future development of the service and gain early-mover advantage) or be part of the wider member rollout, please contact Stuart Feest, APSCo Global Enterprise Director, at stuart.feest@apsco.org. 

More details...

Why are APSCo launching this? 

Certain recruitment markets are becoming increasingly candidate-scarce and specialist-led. Even highly successful firms can struggle to fill roles outside their core niche or geography. 

This platform allows members to:  

• maximise returns from their relationships and business development activity 

• win more roles - fill more vacancies 

• generate additional revenue from existing candidate networks. 

All without compromising client ownership, candidate ownership, or brand reputation. 
 

How it works?  

• Recruitment firm 1 owns the client relationship and vacancy. 

• Recruitment firm 2 provides suitable candidates from its specialist network. 

• Recruitment firm 1 oversees and manages the recruitment process and client engagement, including the required communication between recruitment firm and the client. 

The fees are split between the two recruitment firms, supported by contractual agreements drawn up by WTT Legal.  

Supported by a simple and straight forward tech platform. 
 

What makes this different? 

Unlike informal split deals or open marketplaces, this platform offers:   

1. standardised contracts built into every placement  

1. and a quality-controlled, professional member community 
    

What’s included in the Phase 1 Pilot Launch? 

• Permanent recruitment roles 

• USA based vacancies 

• Vacancy posting and alerts 

• Member profiles by specialism  

• Secure firm-to-firm messaging 

Pilot launch:

• Pilot cohort: Around.30 carefully selected APSCo & MRI members 

• Launch: March 2026 

About MRINetwork 

Founded in 1965, MRINetwork is one of the largest and most respected executive search and professional recruiting networks in the United States. Its U.S. franchise footprint includes well over 200+ offices nationwide. Collectively these firms serve clients across industries and functions, from executive-level leadership searches to mid-career professional placements.  

In the American market, MRINetwork has consistently been recognised by Forbes and research partners reflecting strong peer, client, and candidate reputation within U.S. talent markets.  

MRINetwork’s longevity, scale, and open consultative approach position it as an ideal partner for project.