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40 Years of Robert Walters
Four decades of empowering people and shaping organisations. The biggest opportunities start with a story tell us yours today.
Fulfilling unique potential since 1985
In 1985, Robert Walters opened its doors with a simple mission: to connect talented professionals with the right opportunities and help organisations thrive. Forty years on, that mission continues to guide us - stronger than ever.
What began as a single office in London has grown into one of the world’s most trusted talent solutions businesses. Today, with a presence in over 30 countries, we deliver recruitment, recruitment outsourcing, and talent advisory services to organisations of every shape and size, opening doors for people with diverse skills, ambitions, and backgrounds.
Our journey has been defined by the people we work with: clients, candidates, colleagues, and communities. What sets us apart is the time we take to listen and truly connect with the people and organisations we partner with.
Our services
Leverage our specialised industry expertise, and global reach to champion your story and connect you with the best professionals who will transform your business.
Experience agile recruitment process outsourcing and offshore talent solutions, tailored to your unique needs and seamlessly scalable as your business evolves.
Elevate your hiring strategy with our data-driven marketing intelligence and ESG solutions, empowering your business to cultivate talent, foster growth, and future-proof your success.
Our journey
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1980s – FoundationsFounded in London in 1985, Robert Walters began by placing accountants and quickly stood out by prioritising expertise and long-term relationships over quick wins. These early years established our reputation for quality, professionalism, and trust.
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1990s – Growth and diversificationIn 1996, we listed on the London Stock Exchange, marking a major milestone. The launch of Resource Solutions in 1997 expanded our services into recruitment process outsourcing, while the release of our first Global Salary Survey in 1999 positioned us as an industry thought leader.
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2000s – Global expansionIncorporated as Robert Walters plc in 2000, we accelerated our international growth across multiple continents. The acquisition of Talent Spotter in 2008, strengthened our capabilities and cemented our position as a global leader in specialist recruitment.
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2010/2020s – TransformationBy 2010, we had expanded into 31 countries. In 2024 our three brands were unified under the single Robert Walters identity. Today, we continue to operate as a leading global talent solutions business, delivering recruitment, outsourcing, and advisory services worldwide.
Marking 40 years globally and over 25 years in Southeast Asia, our journey has been defined by partnership, progress and purpose. It’s a privilege to help shape what's next for our clients and candidates.
Kimberlyn Lu, CEO - Southeast Asia