Recruitment Index 2025

Discover the Latest Trends in UK Professional Recruitment

Stay ahead with the APSCo 2025 Recruitment Index Survey report, developed in partnership with Saffery. Drawing on survey responses from firms across the sector, this report reveals key operational performance indicators - offering fresh insights into how recruitment businesses are navigating today’s complex market landscape.

The findings reveal a profession that remains resilient and forward-thinking - navigating economic headwinds, shifting client expectations, and rapid technological change, while uncovering opportunities for growth, innovation, and strategic investment.

What to expect?

The report begins with an overview of the current market context, then explores key non-financial themes such as industry challenges, strategic outlook, technology, talent, and values. Together, these insights equip recruitment leaders to benchmark performance, spot emerging trends, and make confident, data-driven decisions.

Note: This public version excludes sensitive financial data. If you participated in the survey, you’ll receive the full report directly from APSCo, including detailed financial benchmarking. Reach out to your account manager if you have any queries.

Key Highlights

Growth sectors: AI, engineering, cybersecurity, and renewable energy are driving rising demand for specialist skills.

Talent & people strategy: Employee engagement, strong leadership, and clear company values are seen as key drivers of resilience and growth.

Domestic focus: 47% of firms have no plans to expand overseas in the next 12 - 24 months; among those considering it, the US is the top target.

AI Adoption: Almost three quarters of respondents thought that AI would have – or was already having – an impact on candidate sourcing and attraction – including things such as job posting and CV screening.

Roundle continuing across two graphics (2)

The 2025 Index Shows...

50 %

AI is projected to reduce time-to-fill for C-suite roles by up to 50% and improve retention by 92%.

60 %

of respondents are looking to increase their spend on technology over the past year

37 %

of firms are planning to enter or grow their presence in the US market

Market overview – A snapshot of current sector performance and trends, drawn from Q1 2025 survey responses across the UK recruitment market.

Key challenges – An exploration of the operational and market pressures firms are navigating, from shifting client demand to wider economic headwinds.

Technology and innovation – How firms are trialling and adopting AI, increasing tech spend, and leveraging digital tools to boost efficiency and competitiveness.

Talent and people strategy – Why training, internal culture, and strong leadership remain central to resilience, retention, and long-term growth.

Strategic and economic outlook – Forward-looking perspectives on where the market is heading, and how firms are positioning themselves for success in 2025 and beyond.

Benchmark performance – See how your firm compares to peers across key operational, talent, and financial metrics.

Spot emerging trends – Identify growth areas, from AI adoption to sector hotspots, and understand where the market is heading.

Support strategic decisions – Use data-driven insights to shape investment, expansion, and people strategies with confidence.

Strengthen client conversations – Leverage independent, sector-wide intelligence to demonstrate expertise and add value to client relationships.

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Unlock the latest trends shaping UK recruitment with the APSCo 2025 Recruitment Index.