London’s fast-paced business scene demands expert HR support from recruitment and compliance to employee engagement and leadership development. Human resources companies in London help businesses stay efficient, legally compliant, and people-focused.
Whether you’re a growing startup or a large enterprise, partnering with the right HR firm can streamline operations and support long-term success. This guide explores the top 10 human resources companies in London, highlighting their specialties, ideal clients, pricing, and contact details to help you choose the best fit for your business.
Why are human resources companies essential for businesses in London?
London’s competitive and fast-paced business environment demands a high level of organisation, compliance, and adaptability. Human resources companies provide the support needed for businesses to thrive in such conditions, from managing employee relations to implementing effective recruitment strategies.
The Role of HR in Organisational Success
A capable HR partner ensures not only that employees are recruited efficiently but also that they are retained, trained, and developed within a legally compliant structure. This is particularly important in London, where regulations, diversity needs, and employee expectations evolve rapidly.
Meeting Legal and Ethical Obligations
HR companies keep businesses updated on employment law, including health and safety, anti-discrimination, and data protection. They help avoid costly disputes and penalties by maintaining accurate documentation and offering expert legal advice.
How were the top human resources companies in London selected?
To identify the most reputable HR companies in London, various factors were assessed based on available public data and business reputation.
Selection Based on Client Feedback
Google Business ratings and online testimonials were used to gauge customer satisfaction, reliability, and the effectiveness of each company’s services.
Evaluation of Service Range and Market Focus
Only companies offering comprehensive HR support such as recruitment, compliance, and employee management were considered. Specialisation in industries relevant to the London economy added weight to a company’s inclusion.
Which are the top 10 human resources companies in London?
1. Adecco UK – “Global Power, Local People”
Adecco UK is a major player in HR services with a well-established presence in London. As part of The Adecco Group, which operates in over 60 countries, their London branch provides a tailored service for local businesses, combining international scale with community insight. Adecco supports industries ranging from retail and logistics to IT and legal sectors.
Their ability to quickly match talent with roles is particularly valuable for businesses with high-volume hiring needs or seasonal workforce demands. Adecco’s local consultants provide hands-on service, and their digital tools help manage onboarding, time tracking, and employee performance.
Core Focus
Workforce planning and end-to-end recruitment for temporary and contract roles across all sectors.
Ideal For
Fast-growing businesses or enterprises that require scalable hiring and managed HR services.
Pricing: Customised quotes based on hiring needs and volume.
- Website: www.adecco.co.uk
- Phone: 020 7300 9000
- Address: 4th Floor, 71 Kingsway, London WC2B 6ST
- Email: london@adecco.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“Quick to respond and very professional. They helped us fill multiple roles within days, including temps we converted to permanent.”
2. Hays Human Resources – “Experts in People Placement”
Hays Human Resources is a trusted name in London’s corporate hiring scene. With a team dedicated solely to HR roles, Hays works with clients across finance, healthcare, tech, and public sectors. They deliver talent solutions from HR assistants to HR directors and offer market insights that help clients make competitive offers.
Their consultants combine industry knowledge with access to a large talent pool, enabling them to identify candidates with both technical skills and cultural fit. Hays also offers bespoke services for workforce planning and succession strategies.
Primary Expertise
Mid-to-executive-level HR recruitment for permanent and contract roles.
Most Suitable
Corporate environments seeking experienced, strategic HR professionals with sector-specific expertise.
Pricing: Typically 15%–25% of first-year salary, depending on role level.
- Website: www.hays.co.uk
- Phone: 020 3465 0000
- Address: 107 Cheapside, London EC2V 6DN
- Email: hrteam@hays.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Hays understands the London job market like no one else. Their advice was spot on, and we found a senior HR manager in under a month.”
3. Reed HR – “People-Focused HR That Performs”
Reed HR is part of the Reed Group, one of the UK’s longest-standing recruitment organisations. In London, they have a strong reputation for agility and customer care, supporting companies with both planned hires and emergency HR cover. Their HR consultants offer flexible solutions, including short-term interim contracts, payroll services, and policy drafting.
What sets Reed apart is its ability to serve small businesses with the same attention and professionalism given to large enterprises. Their wide candidate database and digital infrastructure make them efficient and responsive.
Area of Strength
Providing HR cover at short notice, plus affordable recruitment for permanent and interim HR roles.
Best Suited For
Small to mid-sized businesses looking for cost-effective HR staffing with minimal lead time.
Pricing: From £1,000 for contract roles; permanent placement fees vary by salary.
- Website: www.reed.co.uk
- Phone: 020 7932 3500
- Address: 1st Floor, 110 Buckingham Palace Rd, London SW1W 9SA
- Email: hr.london@reedglobal.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Flexible and fast. Reed provided a great HR advisor within 48 hours during a crucial hiring phase.”
4. Michael Page Human Resources – “Strategic Talent Partners”
Michael Page HR, part of the global PageGroup, offers specialised recruitment for experienced HR professionals. Their London consultants work across multiple sectors, placing individuals in roles such as HR Managers, Heads of People, and HR Business Partners.
Michael Page is especially valued for its consultative approach they take the time to understand business structure, leadership styles, and strategic goals before making a recommendation. This makes them a go-to for high-stakes HR recruitment.
Key Strength
Focused on sourcing HR leaders and senior specialists aligned with long-term business strategy.
Top Fit For
Businesses undergoing transformation or those looking to hire strategic HR talent with leadership capabilities.
Pricing: Around 20%–30% of first-year salary; tailored for executive roles.
- Website: www.michaelpage.co.uk
- Phone: 020 7831 2000
- Address: Victoria House, Southampton Row, London WC1B 4JB
- Email: londonhr@michaelpage.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Highly professional service. We hired a fantastic Head of HR who’s already made an impact.”
5. Frazer Jones – “Executive HR Search with Global Insight”
Frazer Jones is a high-end HR recruitment and consultancy firm with a strong foothold in London and a reach that spans across continents. Their expertise lies in placing senior HR professionals, from Heads of People to Global HR Directors, especially in sectors like law, finance, and professional services. They’re also highly regarded for promoting DEI initiatives through their consulting services.
Speciality
Well-known for connecting global firms with strategic HR leadership and legal HR experts.
Best For
International organisations and law firms seeking high-level HR talent or advisory.
Pricing: Bespoke pricing based on role seniority and consultancy scope
- Website: www.frazerjones.com
- Phone: 020 7415 2800
- Address: 95 Queen Victoria St, London EC4V 4HN
- Email: london@frazerjones.com
Review: ★★★★★
“We needed an HR Director with a legal background, and Frazer Jones delivered a shortlist in a week. Outstanding service.”
6. Oakleaf Partnership – “HR Specialists That Understand Culture”
Oakleaf Partnership is a boutique HR recruitment firm with a deep understanding of company culture and values. Their consultants work closely with clients to ensure each candidate fits beyond just the role, focusing on cultural alignment and long-term impact.
Oakleaf serves sectors like tech, retail, public services, and finance.
Area of Excellence
Unique focus on diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI) and HR reward functions.
Perfect Match
Businesses that prioritise cultural fit, inclusion, and sustainable HR growth.
Pricing: Typically 18%–25% of base salary, depending on role level
- Website: www.oakleafpartnership.com
- Phone: 020 3824 7800
- Address: 4th Floor, 20 Old Bailey, London EC4M 7AN
- Email: info@oakleaf.partners
Review: ★★★★☆
“Oakleaf helped us recruit an HR Business Partner who matched both our skill requirements and company culture perfectly.”
7. Robert Walters HR – “People-Focused. Performance-Driven.”
Robert Walters HR delivers a full range of recruitment services, with a focus on helping businesses hire professionals that can lead change and improve organisational performance. In London, they are well-versed in industries such as fintech, real estate, and health. Their consultants also provide guidance on salary benchmarks and talent trends.
Niche Capability
Experts in organisational restructuring, change management, and talent retention.
Best Choice
Companies undergoing digital transformation or operational change that need strong HR leadership.
Pricing: Varies by service; typically 15%–25% of annual salary
- Website: www.robertwalters.co.uk
- Phone: 020 7509 8000
- Address: 11 Slingsby Place, St. Martin’s Courtyard, London WC2E 9AB
- Email: london@robertwalters.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Robert Walters didn’t just send CVs — they helped us define the role and assess internal alignment. A real consultative approach.”
8. Annapurna Recruitment – “HR Meets Innovation”
Annapurna Recruitment brings a forward-thinking, tech-focused edge to HR hiring. Known for its work in change management and digital transformation, Annapurna connects London companies with HR leaders who have experience in agile, scalable, and data-led work environments. They also host popular HR networks and thought-leadership events.
Core Advantage
Blend of HR and digital change recruitment for future-ready businesses.
Ideal Fit
Technology companies and startups scaling fast or adapting to hybrid work models.
Pricing: Project-based and retained recruitment available
- Website: www.annapurnarecruitment.com
- Phone: 020 3031 2468
- Address: 10 Lower Thames St, London EC3R 6AF
- Email: contact@annapurnarecruitment.com
Review: ★★★★★
“They understood our growth plans and sourced a Head of People with digital-first thinking. Great experience from start to finish.”
9. HR Dept London – “Big HR for Small Business”
HR Dept London provides outsourced HR solutions to SMEs across the capital. They act as a fully operational HR department, offering help with everything from contracts and policies to grievance procedures and employment tribunals. Their service is personalised and cost-effective, making HR accessible to small business owners.
Notable Offering
Hands-on HR advice tailored for small business operations and legal compliance.
Best Fit For
Startups and SMEs without internal HR teams needing compliant, affordable support.
Pricing: Retainer-based or pay-as-you-go from £75/hr
- Website: www.hrdept.co.uk
- Phone: 0345 208 1120
- Address: 3rd Floor, 86-90 Paul St, London EC2A 4NE
- Email: londoncentral@hrdept.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“HR Dept is like having an in-house HR team on call. They handle all the legal bits so we can focus on growing.”
10. LHH (Lee Hecht Harrison) – “Navigating Change Through People”
LHH is internationally recognised for its work in outplacement, leadership coaching, and workforce transformation. Their London office works closely with corporations undergoing mergers, downsizing, or executive shifts. They help staff transition, retrain, and resettle, all while helping employers manage change sensitively and strategically.
Specialist Focus
Career transition, leadership coaching, and outplacement programmes.
Great For
Organisations managing change, redundancies, or leadership development initiatives.
Pricing: Programme-based pricing on request
- Website: www.lhh.com
- Phone: 020 7268 6262
- Address: 55 Gracechurch Street, London EC3V 0EE
- Email: info.uk@lhh.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“LHH gave our senior managers the tools to navigate a merger with confidence and clarity. Truly empowering.”
What services do these top companies typically provide?
Human resources companies vary in the breadth of services they offer. Below is a detailed comparison of what the top 10 firms provide.
Comparison of HR Services in London
| HR Company | Recruitment | Outsourced HR | Payroll | Compliance & Legal | Coaching & Development |
| Adecco UK | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Hays HR | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Reed HR | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Michael Page HR | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Frazer Jones | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Oakleaf Partnership | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Robert Walters HR | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Annapurna Recruitment | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| HR Dept London | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| LHH | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
How should businesses in London choose the right HR provider?
Choosing the right HR company depends on a business’s structure, goals, and growth phase. Here are some key areas to evaluate.
Aligning HR Strategy with Business Goals
Companies must consider whether an HR partner can align with their growth strategy. For example, start-ups may need basic compliance and hiring support, while large corporations might look for workforce planning and restructuring expertise.
Assessing Industry Knowledge and Flexibility
Sector-specific experience often makes a significant difference. For instance, financial services or tech companies in London benefit from HR firms familiar with FCA compliance or data protection regulations.
Importance of Communication and Culture Fit
An overlooked but critical factor is whether the HR provider matches the internal culture and communication style of your organisation. Regular reporting, clear communication channels, and mutual understanding are vital for long-term success.
What are the latest HR trends influencing companies in London?
London-based HR companies are embracing innovation and shifting workplace dynamics. Staying ahead of these trends is key to remaining competitive.
Digital HR Solutions
Digitalisation of HR functions, including applicant tracking systems and virtual onboarding, has become a priority. Cloud-based platforms now streamline payroll, compliance, and employee performance tracking.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)
More HR companies now offer DEI audits, training programmes, and policy development. Firms like Frazer Jones and Oakleaf lead these initiatives, helping companies foster inclusive work environments.
Hybrid Work Management
Flexible work arrangements have pushed HR providers to support remote work infrastructure. They now assist clients with policies, remote onboarding, virtual collaboration tools, and performance evaluations for hybrid teams.
Why do small and medium-sized businesses prefer outsourced HR services?
SMEs in London increasingly turn to outsourced HR for several reasons — mostly tied to cost, convenience, and expertise.
Cost-Effective Alternative to In-House Teams
Maintaining a full-time HR department is not feasible for all SMEs. Outsourcing allows access to expert-level HR without overheads such as salaries, software subscriptions, and training.
Rapid Deployment of HR Processes
HR firms can establish core processes like employment contracts, handbooks, and compliance audits quickly. This fast-track approach is especially beneficial for start-ups or growing businesses entering new markets.
Risk Reduction and Legal Protection
A professional HR firm mitigates risk by ensuring contracts, disciplinary actions, and terminations follow UK law. This legal safety net is a major incentive for outsourcing.
Conclusion
Navigating the complex landscape of human resources in London requires more than just administrative know-how — it demands strategic partnerships. The top human resources companies in London featured in this guide offer a wide spectrum of services, from recruitment and compliance to leadership development and outsourced HR support.
Whether you’re a startup seeking affordable HR solutions or a multinational looking for executive-level talent, there’s a provider on this list that aligns with your business goals. By partnering with the right HR firm, businesses can not only stay compliant and efficient but also create a healthier, more productive workplace culture.
Take the time to assess your company’s unique needs, and use this guide as a starting point to connect with an HR partner that will help your team thrive.
FAQs Human Resources Companies in London
What makes an HR company reputable in London?
A strong reputation is built on successful placements, client testimonials, compliance with UK employment laws, and a consistent track record of adding business value.
Can outsourced HR firms handle disciplinary actions?
Yes. Most HR firms assist with grievance handling, investigations, and formal disciplinary procedures in line with UK law.
Are temporary staffing services part of HR offerings?
They can be. Firms like Adecco and Reed offer both temporary and permanent staffing as part of their broader HR services.
Do HR companies in London help with employee benefits?
Many provide advisory services around employee benefits, including pension schemes, private health insurance, and flexible working options.
Is employee onboarding included in outsourced HR packages?
Yes. Onboarding is a critical HR function and is often offered as part of a complete outsourcing or compliance package.
Are there HR companies that specialise in the tech sector?
Yes, Annapurna Recruitment and Oakleaf have strong HR expertise within tech and digital transformation sectors.
Can these HR firms assist during business restructuring?
Definitely. Companies like LHH and Robert Walters specialise in organisational design, leadership coaching, and workforce transformation during change phases.