2024: A Year of Preparation and Transition
2024 has been a transformative year for Jefferson Locke, with each of our three core divisions—Recruitment, Leadership Development, and Mergers & Acquisitions—navigating unique challenges and opportunities.
Recruitment
In recruitment, we observed a dichotomy between executive search and contingency recruitment. While contingency recruitment experienced slower growth due to client restructuring and cautious hiring strategies, executive search told a different story. There has been a strong focus on senior-level hires, particularly in the UK and US, with Q4 marking a surge in activity as businesses positioned themselves for 2025. This contrast highlights the evolving priorities of organizations preparing for long-term growth.
Leadership Development
Our Leadership Development division maintained steady performance throughout the year. Post-restructuring, companies have shown an unwavering commitment to investing in their leadership teams, from CEOs to senior managers, ensuring readiness for transformative change. Additionally, our involvement in AI-focused leadership training and automation programs has been a highlight of 2024, signaling a forward-thinking approach to emerging technologies. This trend is set to accelerate, with significant growth anticipated in 2025.
Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A)
While M&A activity showed steady growth in 2024, it fell short of our initial projections. However, this year has been one of groundwork and preparation. We anticipate a wave of consolidation within the marketing agency sector, with smaller agencies being acquired by larger networks or independents as they expand into new markets. Our team has been instrumental in preparing clients to go to market, setting the stage for what we believe will be a dynamic period of growth from 2025 to 2028.
Outlook for 2025 and Beyond
As we move into 2025, we foresee steady growth across all divisions, bolstered by the optimism shared by CEOs and business leaders, despite broader economic caution. Recruitment is expected to gain momentum, particularly at senior levels, while Leadership Development will capitalize on increasing investments in AI and automation. M&A activity is set to thrive as market consolidation gains pace.
At Jefferson Locke, we believe 2025 will be a year of opportunity and expansion, laying the groundwork for sustained growth through 2028. We remain committed to supporting our clients through change and innovation, ensuring they are equipped to thrive in an evolving landscape.
From all of us at Jefferson Locke, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. We look forward to partnering with you in 2025 and beyond.
