Permanent recruitment for senior specialists and leaders.

Screened for capability, culture, and lasting commitment.

A few of the organisations we've worked with

What permanent recruitment looks like
with us

A permanent appointment is one of the most significant decisions an organisation makes. Done well, it shapes your team, your culture and your outcomes for years. Done poorly, the cost - financial and human - is significant.

Patterson Recruitment manages permanent recruitment for senior specialists and leadership roles with a structured, considered process. We don't just find someone available - we find someone who belongs.

A selection of permanent placements

  • Head of People & Culture - Primacy Group Australia
  • Chief of Staff - Melbourne Legacy
  • Director, Marketing & Communications - Optometry Australia
  • General Manager, Student Services - Monash University
  • Manager of External Relations - Wildlife Victoria
  • Finance Manager - Environmental Justice Australia
  • Manager, First Nations Strategy - UNSW
  • HR Manager - Marcellin College

How permanent recruitment works

Our permanent recruitment follows a structured 7-step process - from understanding your organisation and culture through to offer negotiation and onboarding support. Every step is personally led by Gab Patterson.

Sectors we recruit for

Frequently asked questions about permanent recruitment

What is included in your permanent recruitment service?

Our service covers the full recruitment process: role scoping, search and advertising, candidate screening and assessment, shortlist presentation, interview coordination, reference checks, offer negotiation, and onboarding support. See our full process for detail on each step.

How long does a permanent search take?

Most permanent searches take 4-8 weeks from brief to offer, depending on the seniority of the role and the candidate market. We'll give you an honest timeline upfront.

What guarantee do you offer on permanent placements?

Every permanent placement carries a three-month replacement guarantee. If the candidate doesn't work out within the guarantee period - subject to all fees being paid - we'll run a replacement search at no additional placement fee.

What types of roles do you recruit for permanently?

We focus on senior specialist and leadership roles across people & culture, marketing, communications, fundraising, finance, operations, and executive leadership. We don't recruit for entry-level or frontline positions.

How much does permanent recruitment cost?

Permanent recruitment is typically run on an exclusive engagement - no upfront fee, but exclusive engagement means dedicated focus on your role. Fees are calculated as a percentage of the appointed candidate's full-time-equivalent salary package. Contact us for a confidential discussion.

Ready to find your next leader?

Tell us about the role and your organisation. We’ll give you a straightforward assessment and a timeline - no obligation.