I have had the pleasure of working with Rob for many years, both in my time as a Recruitment Advisor and now as Talent Acquisition Manager at Electricity North West.

Rob is exceptional at what he does and an expert in the IT/Cyber/digital space - he takes time to get to know the business he is recruiting for and to understand the role to ensure he finds the right person first time and has delivered time and time again for us.

He is a trusted advisor who I know I can call on for market insight and advise on salary

benchmarks marking and he will give me valuable and honest guidance. I would highly recommend both him and Apply Recruitment.

Kate Kirkham CertIHR - TA Manager Scottish Power ENW

I'm delighted to recommend Rob Riley from Apply Recruitment. Rob has been an exceptional partner in my professional journey, helping me regain confidence and sharpen my leadership skills at pivotal times in my career.

What truly sets Rob apart is his commitment to going beyond the traditional recruiter role. He invests in people, not just placements. Rob regularly checks in, arranges meet-ups, and creates a space to bounce ideas and explore new perspectives. His support has been invaluable in helping me grow as a leader and stay focused on my goals.

If you're looking for a recruiter who genuinely cares, provides tailored guidance, and acts as a trusted advisor. Rob Rilev is the person to speak to.

Tony Bell, Head of IT & OT Operations Yorkshire Water

I had the pleasure of working with Rob when he supported me in securing my current role as Director of Data at CAVU.

From our first conversation, Rob demonstrated professionalism, clear communication, and a genuine interest in making sure that I was the right fit for the role. His understanding of both the role and the organisation was outstanding, and he guided me seamlessly through the process with regular updates and thoughtful advice.

Thanks to their support, I was able to move into a position that aligns perfectly with my skills and career ambitions.

Rob genuinely cares - he has offered support since integrating into my position - and is somebody whom I would recommend to anybody looking for a senior role in data or tech.

Paris Bielby, Data Director CAVU

The recruitment sector seems to have a big gap between the best and the rest - so it is encouraging to work with someone like Rob Riley who is so clearly among the best. Why? - well because he operates at the relationship level taking a real interest in candidates and gaining an in depth understanding of his clients. Responsive and reliable, Rob clearly has a value set that sets his organisation apart, A pleasure to work with I have no hesitation in recommending Rob and Apply Recruitment.

Mike Gladwin, Head of IT

I have had the pleasure of working with Rob now for a number of years both as a candidate and customer while looking for a number of roles.

From both sides Rob and Apply are consummate professionals who as a candidate always keep you updated on the process and as a customer spend a lot of time getting to know the business, understanding the role and more importantly providing a list of candidates that are a good fit for the role.

Rob and his company are a must of any company looking to acquire the best candidates.

Tony Healy, CIO,CTO,CISO 6 Six Degrees 

I have known Rob since 2019 and always felt that at some point we would work together. 

When the opportunity came to strengthen our leadership team, I did not hesitate to engage him.

Rob supported us in appointing two senior leaders into critical roles within our business. From the outset, he operated as a genuine partner. It never felt like we were working with an external recruiter. 

He immersed himself in our strategy, culture, and expectations, adding thoughtful challenge and insight throughout the process. That level of engagement reflects true partnership rather than a transactional approach.

The experience for candidates was equally strong, with clear communication, professionalism, and a focus on ensuring mutual fit. 

Most importantly, the outcome speaks for itself. We secured two outstanding leaders who not only met our expectations but exceeded them.

I would strongly recommend Rob to any organisation seeking a recruiter who brings commitment, integrity, and real value at every stage of the journey.

Adam Dennett MBA & CEO of SpecTec

I had a great experience working with Rob during the process of landing my current CPO role.

From start to finish, he was excellent at keeping me in the loop, setting clear expectations, and making sure I was well prepared for each stage.

What really stood out was how approachable and genuine he was, it never felt like just another recruitment process.

Rob took the time to make sure it was the right fit on both sides and was always available for a quick chat or bit of guidance when needed.

If you're looking to work with someone who's professional, proactive, and genuinely cares about the people he works with, I'd highly recommend Rob.

Garry Clarke - Chief Product Officer

We’ve got quality candidates and I can quite happily say they’re a team of individuals all with different skills and that’s testament really to the dedication of the Apply team to really understand what skills we have and what we need.

Karen Johnson, CIO