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Yes. Many of our candidates hold SC or DV clearance. We verify clearance status early in the process and can filter searches by clearance level when required. For roles in CNI or defence, we maintain a pre-vetted network of cleared professionals.
For executive search mandates, we typically present a qualified shortlist within 10–15 working days. Team build-out projects follow a phased delivery schedule agreed during the briefing stage. Interim placements can often be presented within 48–72 hours.
Our core network is UK and European-focused, but we regularly place candidates internationally. For global CISO searches or distributed security teams, we partner with vetted associates across North America, the Middle East, and APAC.
We work across critical national infrastructure, financial services, defence, energy & utilities, healthcare, and technology. Our consultants have direct experience in these sectors, which means they understand the compliance frameworks, threat landscapes, and talent pools unique to each.
All executive search placements include a rebate period as standard. If a placed candidate leaves within the agreed timeframe, we will re-run the search at no additional cost. Our 90-day structured onboarding support is designed to minimise this risk from the outset.
A few of the kind words shared by senior stakeholders and the internal talent teams we work closely with
across multiple sectors within Critical Infrastructure & supporting supply chains.
Not necessarily. While some of our roles require active SC or DV clearance, many positions are open to candidates who are eligible for clearance but do not yet hold it. Each vacancy listing specifies clearance requirements upfront so you can assess suitability before applying.
Your application is reviewed by one of our specialist consultants within 48 hours. If your profile matches the role requirements, we will arrange an initial confidential conversation to discuss the opportunity in detail and understand your career goals.
Absolutely. Confidentiality is central to everything we do. Your application, conversations, and personal details are never shared with any third party without your explicit consent. Many of our candidates are in senior positions where discretion is paramount.
We encourage you to register your interest anyway. Our mandates change frequently, and many of our best placements come from candidates we already know when the right role emerges. We will keep your details on file and reach out when a suitable opportunity arises.
Let's discuss your hiring challenge.
No obligation, no hard sell.
Yes. Many of our engagements are run under strict confidentiality agreements. We can operate discreetly without naming the hiring organisation until candidates have been fully briefed and given consent to proceed. This is particularly common in CNI environments where operational security is paramount.
We specialise exclusively in cyber security recruitment for critical national infrastructure. This includes energy and utilities, defence and national security, telecommunications, transport, financial services, and government. Our depth of focus means we understand the unique operational, regulatory, and clearance requirements of each sector.
We have deep experience navigating UK security clearance frameworks from SC through to DV and eDV. We assess clearance status early in the process, advise on transferability and timelines, and never disclose a candidate's clearance level without their explicit consent. We can also advise on sponsorship pathways for candidates who need to obtain or upgrade clearance.
We operate on a retained or contingent basis depending on the nature and seniority of the search. For retained searches, fees are structured across milestones aligned to delivery. For contingent placements, fees are payable on successful hire. We are always transparent about costs upfront and happy to discuss the right engagement model for your specific requirements.
"I can't recommend Gyles and the team at Foundations enough. We struggled to find a suitable candidate for 5 months, Foundations found 3 perfect candidates in 24 hours."
Manager of EMEA & APAC Network Engineering, Equinix
