Mark Isherwood

First Recruitment Group

Warrington, England, United Kingdom

About

First Recruitment Group has been delivering specialist recruitment solutions since 1997, growing into a global business supporting major projects across the UK and internationally. We operate through a group of aligned businesses, including First Recruitment, Operam (MSP solutions), Primis (payroll and contractor services), and Talascend International Recruitment. Together, we provide a full workforce solution from recruitment through to engagement and compliance. We support key sectors including Oil & Gas, Nuclear, Chemicals, Water, Aerospace & Defence, and IT. What matters most is how we operate. We focus on quality delivery, long-term partnerships, and building careers people actually want to stay in. No noise, no nonsense, just doing the job properly.

Experience

  • Managing Director | Global Technical Recruitment | Driving Growth, Delivery & Accountability at First Recruitment Group
    Oct 2025 - Present · 10 mos

    Leading and developing a high-performing teams and fostering a thriving, collaborative culture focused on quality, compliance, and measurable growth.

  • Director at Zia People Solutions Ltd
    Sep 2017 - Oct 2025 · 8 yrs 2 mos

    Co-Founded a boutique recruitment business specialising in technical, engineering, and infrastructure placements across construction, utilities, highways, and rail. Built the business from the ground up, without inherited clients. Balancing full-cycle delivery with business development, client acquisition, and operational oversight. Supporting both tier one contractors and specialist SME businesses, delivering high-quality permanent placements across the UK. Trusted to represent businesses supplying into major national infrastructure programmes as well as independently delivered projects. Key Highlights: • Built a successful permanent desk from a standing start • Developed long-term partnerships with both SMEs and large national contractors • Run all aspects of the business — from delivery to commercial performance and compliance

  • Fircroft (15 yrs 2 mos)
    • Senior Global Director – Global Accounts
      Aug 2013 - Jul 2017 · 4 yrs

      Reported to the Board with global delivery responsibility for Fircroft’s largest strategic accounts, including ExxonMobil, Chevron, BP, Shell, and Schlumberger. Operated within a matrix structure to lead multi-region delivery, ensuring consistency, compliance, and commercial alignment. Worked across regions and functions to integrate service standards, protect margins, and support long-term account growth. Key Highlights: • Led global delivery across EMEA, APAC, and the Americas • Supported board-level account planning and client strategy • Built strong client partnerships and aligned internal delivery teams

    • Regional Manager - US Operations
      Mar 2012 - Aug 2013 · 1 yr 6 mos

      Led Fircroft’s US operations, delivering large-scale recruitment and workforce solutions for major oil & gas clients including ExxonMobil and BP. Accountable for regional growth, delivery performance, compliance, and client retention across multiple states and disciplines. Built and managed high-performing delivery teams, implemented scalable workforce strategies, and secured repeat business through operational reliability and deep client engagement. Navigated complex project environments across upstream, downstream, and capital project scopes. Key Highlights: • Scaled US operations to support major projects and long-term frameworks • Delivered compliant workforce solutions in high-regulation environments • Strengthened global client partnerships through consistent local delivery

    • Business Manager - US Operations
      Jan 2007 - Mar 2012 · 5 yrs 3 mos

      Led the full commercial and delivery function across the US, responsible for sales revenue, client development, and operational recruitment strategy. Managed key accounts with major oil & gas operators and EPCs, building long-term relationships and ensuring alignment with client business plans. Oversaw and developed recruitment teams, driving performance, retention, and service standards across multiple disciplines and geographies. Key Highlights: • Managed multimillion-dollar revenue portfolio across upstream/downstream • Built and led high-performing recruitment teams across US markets • Delivered year-on-year growth through client-focused delivery and team stability