Testimonials

“I connected to Peter on LinkedIn soon after I started my plan to move to a new role which suits my experience and expertise. I found Peter very approachable, engaging, helpful and skilful in his job. We had an initial meeting where we discussed my experience, skill and goals and he came up with a handful of opportunities. He arranged interviews for me and also provided interview guidance and I received the offer within the first month of my job search. I was contacted by other recruitment firms but their process was very slow and I was engaged with some associates who did not have any experience in my sector nor did they try to understand my goals/objectives well. As a qualified accountant and working across the region for years, Peter knows the sectors/practices well and has contacts with the key individuals. I appreciate Peter's support and guidance throughout the recruitment process and I would certainly recommend Peter for any candidate looking to make the right career move. “ A.A. Audit Manager, Top 10 Firm

“Peter and I are connected on LinkedIn. After having had thoughts of possibly changing my job, I sent Peter a message. Peter contacted me back very quickly. Having found out what was the situation at my work; Peter assured me that he could definitely help me find a better opportunity to further my career advancement. Within two days, Peter got me job interviews with two well established accountancy practices. He also provided me with useful and helpful advice with my job interviews and kept me informed every step of the way. Throughout the process, I found that Peter was extremely approachable and has a great understanding as a qualified accountant himself. Talking to him was like discussions with my colleagues or friends. I felt that I was able to discuss with him my thoughts and concerns in comparison with other recruiters I came across before. With Peter's help and the negotiation for better terms, I happily accepted a job offer. I am now one week into my new job; I already feel that I have definitely made the right move. Thank you, Peter. I have no hesitation to recommend you to anyone who would like to make a career move. “ L.G. Senior Accoountant, Independent Firm

“Peter's guidance and advice from start to finish has been invaluable and very much appreciated. We had an initial chat before I had started to seriously consider looking for another job, and I found it was easy to have open and honest discussions with Peter as it felt like he wasn't just taking a salesman approach trying to offer many different roles which probably wouldn't have suited me. Peter asked a few questions about the type of work I enjoyed doing, career progression, concerns/reservations about my current role and then shared his personal experiences in his career which I found useful to understand. Peter then told me about an opportunity in the private client tax team at a local firm in Yorkshire and went on to explain what the team and the culture is like there. I thought the role suited me to a tee, so Peter helped me with my application and interview process by providing CV templates and lots of material about the firm and the role I was applying for. Even after I received an offer letter, Peter continued to be involved in the process and even negotiated a better offer for me in terms of salary and checked in with me before my first day to see if I needed anything else. Peter was always quick to respond to emails and was very easy to chat to as you could tell he was passionate about his job. I had never looked at applying for jobs with the help of a recruiter, but I was really impressed with the whole service start to finish and would, without doubt, recommend Peter to friends and family. “ L.C. Private Clients Advisor, Independent Firm

“Peter has been a really valuable adviser to me in changing jobs. What stands out is the approach which can be summarised as working together to get to the right answer for me. We had an initial meeting to discuss and improve on my CV as well as several opportunities that in principle, fit me, my skills and my approach. Another valuable thing to me was the amount of interview guidance and information on the individuals I would be meeting which was extremely helpful. I did receive a job offer that I did not accept whilst working together and importantly, Peter supported me in this decision and continued to search for the right fit for me. This made the recruitment process feel very much for me and to make the same point again, like I had an adviser in my corner. As a qualified accountant who has worked in the region he knows the sector and the key individuals which helped me significantly. The time spent with me was invaluable and the follow up after starting my new role is much appreciated and above and beyond what I would have expected. “ M.F. Audit Senior Manager, Top 10 Firm

“I connected with Peter a few months ago when I unexpectedly lost my job. I have found Peter to be very engaging, dependable and high in integrity. Peter picked me up and helped me get the best career opportunities available at that time. He was prompt in following up. He recommended some CV changes, guided and prepared me for the interview which resulted in me successfully securing the job role. I appreciate his quick response, efficiency and prompt follow up to my requests. I could not recommend Peter more highly. Thank you! “ H.H. Audit & Accounts Senior, Independent Firm

“Peter was recommended to me by a friend when I started searching for an Accounts Assistant role, within minutes I had a response to my enquiry email with a follow up call the same afternoon. Peter talked me through the process in the call and told me to get my CV over to him as soon as possible and he would get in touch with any adjustments I needed to make on my CV before he would send it to potential employers. Within 24 hours of the first call, Peter had reviewed my CV, called me with some advice on a couple of CV adjustments (which I made) and had sent my CV off to potential employers. It didn't take long before Peter had me lined up for an interview with one of the biggest firms in my area, Peter took me through some interview tips before the interview and worked with me all the way through the process until I managed to secure the role. Peter was always easy to contact, responded promptly and was always happy to help; I had never used a recruiter before to gain a role but I wouldn't use another after using Peter and I couldn't recommend him highly enough.“ J.B. Accounts Assistant, Independent Firm

“I've used Peter's services for 2 moves now, and his advice has helped me achieve my ambitions of working in a big 4 firm having started my career in a small practice. Furthermore, at the time of my second move I wasn't entirely sure which area of tax I wanted to specialise in, chatting with Peter before making my move gave me a few things to think about and having been in my role for nearly 3 months now I couldn't be happier with my decision. What can be a daunting process was made easier by Peter's personal and relaxed approach. He actively pursued the right opportunities for me, always being proactive and keeping me updated at the various stages. He also ensured I was well prepared for my interviews, and was always very responsive when I needed him. It was a pleasure to work with Peter. I would definitely recommend him.“ J.M. Transfer Pricing Tax Advisor, Big 4 Firm

“I can’t thank Peter enough for the support he has given me throughout my career.  On numerous occasions he has advised me to stay where I am, putting my career ahead of his own business, which says a lot about Peter as a person.  I would wholeheartedly recommend people use Peter for assistance with their own career. “ S.H. Tax Director, Independent Firm

“I have worked with Peter for a number of years. At Armstrong Watson, we look to recruit quality individuals who share our cultural values. Peter took the time and effort to understand the needs of our business and the type of individual we wish to recruit. Every candidate I get from Peter has been well researched and has been worth seeing. A number of those candidates have joined our practice. I would have no hesitation in recommending Peter.”  Mike Kienlen, Armstrong Watson, Chairman

“My experience with Peter has been outstanding; I wish I could put into words the sheer amount of help and effort that he put into ensuring that the perfect job for myself was found, as well as preparing myself fully, and allowing me a smooth transition from my prior job to the new one.  My initial encounter with Peter was very professional and also friendly. He read through my CV very thoroughly to get to know as much as he could about me. Peter then spoke to me over the phone where he listened to all my reasons for looking for a new job, and understood my need to develop myself further, and learn all aspects of accountancy, but not only that Peter even came all the way to Wetherby to meet up with me on my lunch break one day, where he bought me a coffee, and we had a more detailed face to face chat about everything previously discussed and many other points.  Peter built a very good, understanding and personal relationship with myself, where his goal was to ensure that all my aspirations were met. Peter then promptly went about seeking for suitable opportunities. Peter ensured to keep me updated on his progress almost daily. Any questions I had, I could contact him via text, call or email and would get a response almost immediately, and would never fail to answer them to the best of his ability. From my experience of other agencies this is almost impossible to find, and was a huge stand out point for myself, which in my opinion gave Peter that 5* service. In legitimately less than a week, Peter had come back to me with an array of different companies all meeting my criteria’s of broadening my knowledge from Bookkeeping into more of an Accounts Assistant role, and offering me all the development I was looking for, with tons of room for progression.  All the companies were respectable, well known, small to medium independent firms, which was a massive bonus. Peter gave me loads of background knowledge over the phone and via email about the companies. When it came to organising the interviews, it was very simple and easy, I told him what worked best for me, and he made it happen. Once my number one choice company (which offered me a dual role of Trust/Tax and Audit/Accounts Prep), agree on a date, Peter offered me an immense amount of help, to ensure I was best prepared for the interview, which was brilliant.  After my interview Peter made a stand out service of asking me how I felt it went, and asking the company what they thought of me and any feedback they had. Peter would then feed this back to me. The next day I was offered the job! I’m completely gob smacked to say in little over a week of being approached by Peter, I had the perfect job I had envisioned, couldn’t have imagined it going any better!  I recommended Peter to another similar positioned person who had exactly the same success as myself, and I certainly will continue to recommend him. His approach is without doubt, impeccable. Not only that Peter made it his mission to ensure a top quality connection with the candidate and that is unmatchable. I just want to say thank you again Peter for everything, you have been amazing!”  J.B.  Accounts Assistant, Independent Firm

“It was the relaxed and non-salesman type approach which impressed me. I first spoke to Peter before I was looking, he must have spent half an hour chatting to me, understanding my ambitions and giving useful advice. It was months later that I began seriously thinking about a move when I spoke to Peter again. He travelled to come and meet for a coffee and we had a long informal chat through the different options, he kept me updated with regular emails and was always quick to respond. Once we had an interview lined up, he again travelled to meet me for a coffee to help me prep for the interview. It was the friendly, relaxed and professional service that made my experience a positive one. I would definitely recommend Peter and will consider using him myself in the future, be it for a move or simply for advice on my career”. J.M. Corporate Tax Senior, Top 10 Firm

“Peter was very helpful in getting me my current job after I qualified. He was very patient in understanding me and what my career path was.  I could see he made lots of effort to find good opportunities for me and helped me to prepare for interviews. He always provided constructive advice about the job interview and career perspective.  I would definitely highly recommend Peter because he spent time to consider my career path, long term development and objectives.''  F.Y. Accounts Senior, Independent Firm

“I connected with Peter at least two years prior and exchanged messages about my desire to move into corporate finance. At the time, I was in my training contract working in the audit department. Peter travelled up to Newcastle a week later for a coffee at which point we discussed my career ambitions and why I saw myself in a corporate finance role. Peter listened and took the time thereafter to understand my position.

After a few months, I reached out to Peter to state my ambition to leave my then current role. Peter took the time to draw up a list of relevant firms in the local market place, followed by a detailed call regarding the type of work I'd be doing, the deals I'd likely be involved in and the exposure I'd get.

Peter secured me an interview with one particular firm straightaway. This opportunity stood out to me as the firm are known for their great reputation in the corporate finance market. The first interview was followed by several other interviews, as well as tests such as mock corporate finance tasks (modelling exercise and buyer research) over a period of around 18 months. Peter assisted me with these tasks and was always at hand to run through any issues I had prior to submission.

The process wasn't a quick one, but Peter persevered and ensured I was focused on the role that I wanted and remained patient.

Whilst other recruiters pester you day and night and often can't deliver on opportunities they promise, Peter never took that approach and the ball was always in my court. I'd certainly recommend Peter for any candidate looking for a career move!”  S.N. Corporate Finance Executive, Boutique Firm

“I had been connected with Peter on LinkedIn for a number of years and had exchanged a few messages over that period. What I liked about Peter was his style whereby it never felt like it was a pressured situation or that he was trying to sell something to me, there was a personal touch that really resonated with me. Therefore once I had decided to look for a new role, I contacted Peter to have an initial conversation about my options and to make sure the relationship was right. We met for a coffee and we ran through where I was up to and where I saw my options. Peter listened and took the time to understand my situation, which is a fantastic approach to have. Peter’s knowledge of the market was impressive as was his access to the range of firms within the local and wider geographical market place.

Peter and I agreed a plan and Peter went to market on my behalf to see what roles were there, making sure they matched my requirements. Within a number of weeks Peter had lined up several potential interviews which all matched what I was looking for. Peter ran through each of the businesses on the phone with me, again a great demonstration of giving the personal touch in his services and I appreciated his input.

Prior to interviews Peter would call me and offer any assistance that he could give, for example a practice interview or any questions I may have had. It is this genuine interest in the candidate that makes Peter stand out.

After only a few weeks I had secured a new role with a business that exactly matched what I was looking for.

I would certainly recommend Peter. His approach is fantastic and his genuine interest in the candidate and their future makes him stand out from the crowd. Thanks Peter, you’ve been great! “  J.H. Audit Senior Manager, Independent Firm

‘Peter is not your average agent.  He doesn't simply want to place you in a position, but rather find and recommend roles that suit your skills, qualification and competence.  I have always found Peter to be very approachable and honest, giving advice on career building, problem solving and general issues when seeking your next move.

He forms a good relationship to get to know you, your aspirations and competence.  I have known him for a few years now, focusing on my skills and qualifications, what am comfortable with and my needs, before seeking out suitable opportunities where I would be comfortable, happy and get what I need. This is just what he did this summer, placing me in a firm that has allowed me time to adjust, working on developing myself and having a team that embodies commitment and motivation. Although a small firm, I have the opportunity to work directly with the Partners (from top-10 firms), and gain experience that will fuel my career.

I have been with many agents, most are there just for the money, but if you fail to land a job, they will simply not bother working with you again.  But as mentioned, Peter’s commitment and dedication in working with his candidates is what separates him from the crowd.  I would highly recommend Peter above all other agents I’ve worked with just because he will try to understand you as a person, and what you are seeking from your career, as opposed to being just another candidate that needs to be placed in a role irrespective of suitability and candidate input.

It has been great working with Peter and I cannot thank him enough.’  R.K.  Accounts & Tax Senior, Independent Firm

“What can I say. Peter has been amazing. Found me a superb job. He tailored my requirements to exactly what I needed. Very honest, reliable, always returned my calls.

I was on the books with numerous recruiters, and to be frank Peter is by far the best I have dealt with. He met me for a coffee, which made it even more personal.

I couldn't recommend him enough.”  C.L. Mixed Tax Senior, Independent Firm

“I was introduced to Peter through a colleague and from our first meeting it was clear that he really knows his stuff, both in terms of the local financial market along with the actual job role (he’s ACA qualified) which gave me confidence in his ability to help find something that was right for me.

It also struck me how genuine he is about trying to do what is best by those people he deals with – the job-seeker and the potential employers, a stark contrast from my previous dealings with recruitment agencies.

He provided a personal and tailored approach to the whole process, encouraging me to contact him at any time with any questions or concerns I might’ve had.  Within days he had lined up several interviews (all of which felt worthwhile) and I secured a position after only a matter of weeks from our first meeting!

Most impressed and would highly recommend – I’ll most definitely be keeping his contact details for the future!”  G.J. Audit Semi-Senior, Independent Firm

“I contacted Peter after connecting with him via LinkedIn and viewing his website. Peter kindly agreed to visit me in Sheffield for a coffee, after working hours, to discuss my strengths, skills, qualifications and to ascertain what I was looking for in my ideal role. Following a review of my CV, Peter constructively advised me how improvements could be made to make me more attractive to prospective employers.

Having taken the decision to relocate to the North East of England and only commencing contact with Peter at the beginning of January 2016, he had swiftly approached a number of Insolvency firms of various sizes.

By mid-January, Peter had secured me an interview at a boutique insolvency firm in Newcastle upon Tyne who were looking to expand their operation. Peter assisted me in my preparation for the interview providing me with additional confidence and advice.

Peter’s understanding, confident and no pressure approach to my situation was extremely helpful in this big move, both professionally and geographically.

Thanks to Peter, I am happy to say that I have relocated to the North East and commenced employment as an insolvency administrator with the certainty of entering for the JIEB exams next year.

I would certainly recommend Peter to anyone who is looking for a personable, non-harassing recruitment consultant. Thanks again Peter.”  A.B.  Insolvency Administrator, Boutique Insolvency Firm

“Peter has been fantastic throughout my job search, he happily worked around my requirements, has always been happy to help and nothing has been too much effort.

After first meeting with him in person to look through my CV and discuss a potential position, he has been in regular contact with me about new opportunities and providing interview guidance which has been extremely helpful. He focused on matching my skills and aspirations to roles that would match my strengths and qualifications. His support with finding work, and confidence in my skills, has been invaluable and really helped boost my confidence. This also made the recruitment process feel much more transparent and less stressful. Once I had my first interview, he gave me helpful feedback and information for my second interview and he followed up with the employer on numerous occasions in order to get a final decision from them. Through him I have secured a permanent job in one of the Big 4 firm’s as an Audit Assistant Manager. He kept in contact even after I started my new job to make sure things were going well and I was happy with the new role.

Being a qualified accountant he is proficient in understanding job roles in the accountancy sector. I found him very approachable, consistent and professional throughout my correspondence and his personal approach was unlike any other recruitment agency that I have dealt with. I will definitely stay in touch, and recommend any friends I have to Peter, as his service was excellent.  Thank you so much for all your support and guidance! “  R.T. Audit Assistant Manager, Big 4 Firm

“Peter contacted me th ?¸qÃU ?¸qÃUP¢¬qÃUÀ›¬qÃUˆ?¸qÃU@?¸qÃU@@?¸qÃUthree years.  I had been vaguely considering moving either to another firm or into industry, to broaden my experience and improve my prospects for promotion, and Peter suggested I might be suitable for a position he was looking to fill at a Big 4 firm.

The original role Peter mentioned didn’t appeal to me as it would have involved relocating, but Peter was proactive in finding a similar vacancy in my local office.  I was unsure about applying to the Big 4, and this particular firm, but Peter was extremely encouraging and reassured me that he thought I was right for the role.  I trusted his judgement, partly because he is the only recruiter I have ever dealt with who made the time and effort to meet me in person before putting me forward for anything.  I really valued this investment in getting to know me, which made me feel he was really taking me and my career seriously, as well as his client’s requirements.  I’m sure if he’d felt I wasn’t suitable, either skills wise or in personality, he would have said so and directed me towards something different.

Peter reorganised my CV to best highlight my skills and experience, and when I was asked to interview he gave me sensible advice.  I was offered the job and with Peter’s help negotiated an offer I was happy with.  I was still unsure about taking the plunge into the Big 4, having been advised against it by friends, but Peter took the time to speak to me in depth about what I could expect and how he felt I would fit into the culture.  He encouraged me in my ambitions but never pushed or rushed me, or gave me false expectations.

I have now been working as an assistant manager in my new firm for a couple of months, and am really enjoying the job.  Peter was right about pretty much everything and I’m so pleased he got in touch with me to start this whole process off.

I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Peter to anyone who is looking for a more thoughtful, considered and personalised recruitment experience.”  H.W.  Audit Assistant Manager, Big 4 Firm

"Peter has been phenomenal in finding me my current job as an Audit and Accounts Senior in Top 15 accountancy firm. Peter has truly provided me recruitment consultancy where he genuinely analysed and assessed my situation and discussed the potential opportunities. Since Peter himself has a strong accountancy background and being a chartered accountant he completely understood my aspirations and requirements. He has a detailed knowledge of what the accountancy firms require and expect from the candidates. He has been very professional, efficient, analytical and specific throughout this process. Peter provided me with great assistance in the interview preparation which heavily contributed towards a successful interview. Peter’s hard work and my patience paid off at the end, I am really happy and enjoying my new role.  I would strongly recommend Peter for his distinctive attributes than other recruiters in the market.  I truly believe that his highly positive, constructive and honest suggestions gave my career the right channel and vision.  I would definitely recommend Peter to all my friends.  Thank you Peter for all your help. Much appreciated!!  U.N  Audit & Accounts Senior, Top 15 Firm

"Peter recently helped me find my current job as tax manager at a small accountancy firm. He listened to me when I told him the sort of role I was looking for, and only contacted me when he had found a relevant role. He clearly has a lot of contacts in the accountancy field, not just with the largest firms. He provided advice and support at all stages of the recruitment process, ensuring I was well prepared for the interview. He was always friendly and helpful and I am happy to recommend him to others."  A.M.  Tax Manager, Independent Firm

"I have rarely been as positively challenged as I was by you when we first met up to chat. With hindsight it is abundantly clear that, at a career crossroads, I was at risk of making a duff decision. I truly believe that you gently righted my direction of travel, and I now find myself in a managerial role at an exciting global firm (and one which hasn't forgotten to tend to its local strengths). Your personally engaging style is, to my mind, your biggest asset, and I would recommend you without question, confident that you would give any candidate refreshingly honest guidance and meaningful advice. Good luck, and I wish you every success in future."  L.W.  Audit Manager, Top 10 Firm

“Peter helped me make my first move into a Top 10 accountancy firm.  I had been working for small to medium firms since I qualified in 2006 and always wanted to make a move into the Top 10 accountancy firms. It was not easy for me as I tried for a long time to find the perfect job and in the end I nearly lost hope. A friend of mine, who Peter helped to find his ideal job in the Big 4, recommended Peter to me.  From our first meeting, I found Peter very easy going, friendly, approachable and very professional in his conduct.  Peter understood what I was specifically looking for in my next role and worked very closely with me to make sure I get the perfect job. Peter was always available whenever I wanted his advice. He would regularly give me updates and keep in touch. I was a bit nervous before my interview but Peter helped me prepare for the interview and his advice and guidance was really helpful. In the end Peter’s hard work and my patience paid off and now I am really happy and enjoying my new role in one of the Top 10 accountancy firms. I would certainly recommend Peter to all my friends.  Thank you Peter for all your help.”  M.W.  Accounts Supervisor, Top 10 Firm

"Peter provided me with a fantastic service as a recruiter, getting me multiple interviews within credible and well located companies. I was approached by Peter with the possibility of an excellent opportunity with KPMG. He helped me through the process every step of the way and I found his preparation strategy extremely helpful, individual and tailored to fit your needs. You are constantly kept in the loop as to your position and the outcome of interviews. The result being a highly professional, friendly, efficient service which was specific to what I was looking for. With Peter's assistance I was able to pass through all stages of interviews and got an offer from my current Employer. This sets the standard of the service and assistance which Peter provides. I will have no hesitation in recommending Peter in the near and distant future. Thanks again Peter"  A.W.  FS Audit Assistant Manager, Big 4 Firm

“Peter contacted me through the LinkedIn professional networking site after being requested to fill a role with a local independent firm.  Peter is approachable and attentive to the wants/ requirements of each individual candidate and able to provide assistance on the role and background of the firms he works with.  Peter’s own background in accountancy also allows candidates to use more detailed language with him over other recruiters who do not have such detailed knowledge of the compliance requirements required by the profession and professional bodies making his approach to job allocation even more suitable.  I would strongly recommend Peter Macdonald Recruitment to others, and have done with a previous colleague who was considering a change of employment.”  M.W. Audit and Accounts Senior

“The words that Peter uses to describe his approach – unique, personal, long term – are entirely accurate. Peter is the only recruitment consultant I’ve ever met who actually does any consulting – he is the very antithesis of the hard-selling, numbers chasing recruiters that I’ve previously dealt with. As well as being extremely personable, Peter’s own experience of working in practice is invaluable and his knowledge of the local market impeccable.  I’d met with Peter over a number of years before he finally placed me, during which time Peter patiently sought to understand what it was I wanted from my career, and provided a constant sounding board until the right opportunity came along.   Peter finally placed me in a director role in an ambitious independent firm, which matched exactly my long term career aspirations. Now that I am in a position to make recruitment decisions of my own, and knowing what I now know about the care and attention that goes into his work, I wouldn’t hesitate to use Peter to recruit staff of my own.  Peter has been an absolute pleasure to work with and I’ll be forever grateful for his help and advice. Thanks Peter!”  M.O. Audit & Accounts Director, Top 30 Firm

"I would strongly recommend Peter who consistently went the extra mile to understand my requirements and to source introductions to potential recruiters not advertised in the market.  He's incredibly well connected in the market and made sure he provided a thorough background briefing in advance of each interview, as well as a constructive debrief afterwards.  Peter has always been refreshingly proactive at keeping me updated on status and chasing up interview feedback.  Overall, I found him an absolute pleasure to work with and would have no hesitation either recommending his excellent services, or working with him again in the future."  T.R. Corporate Tax Senior Manager, Big 4 Firm

“I met Peter a number of years ago and he has kept in contact with me throughout my professional exams and career. He has always provided professional and impartial advice with my best interests being a priority. When the opportunity arose, we had a meeting to discuss my current role, future aspirations and personal interests to determine the next step in my career. Peter has a detailed knowledge of the local job market and opportunities in the area, he then advised on the suitable roles. He provided constructive advice regarding the interview process, the role (at a Top 15 firm) and kept me informed throughout. I would highly recommend Peter, he took the time to consider my career, long term objectives and took the stress out of the process.”  C.C. Corporate Tax

“After making the decision that I wanted a change of career from Audit to Tax, Peter helped me in finding a fantastic role in Personal Tax. Throughout the process Peter kept my needs in mind and only approached me with job opportunities that were right for me. Peter is extremely helpful and gave me interviewing coaching and even walked me to one of my interviews.  His great contacts within the accountancy profession enabled me to apply for a job that wasn't even advertised.  I am very excited to start my new job in a field I have had a keen interest in since graduating and with a medium sized firm of accountants. I would definitely recommend Peter to others. “ S.R. Personal Tax

"I discovered Peter on LinkedIn through the ICAEW Professionals group. His vast number of contacts in the Yorkshire accountancy market enabled him to provide me advice on what jobs to go for and also secure interviews. Given that I was relocating from the South to Leeds, I had no real knowledge of the area. Peter has a professional style unlike any other recruitment agents I have used in the past, calling at a mutually convenient time outside of normal working hours and keeping you up to date with progress from all firms. I was impressed by the service I received which made relocating much easier knowing I was moving to the job I wanted (at a Top 10 accountancy firm). He will definitely be the first person I contact, when the next step in my career arises."  V.W. Audit

“Peter recently assisted me in taking the next step, and for me the most significant step, in my career into a senior post in practice.  Taking the step away from 9 years in a Big 4 environment to a mid-tier practice 4 years ago, I knew my next move needed to be the right one – both from a professional and a personal perspective.  Peter took time to get to know me as a person, not just in terms of my career and professional aspirations but also my personal situation and requirements for my next role. He did this in a way which was not pushy or judgemental but in a way which enabled him to progress opportunities that would be the best fit for me – it was this ‘putting the client first’ approach that I found to be very refreshing in a recruitment specialist.  Throughout the process Peter demonstrated his knowledge of the marketplace – not just of the accounting profession but of the roles available in the region and also the people and cultures embedded in the firms in and around the area.  Once an opportunity was identified for me Peter facilitated the next steps expertly, clearly understanding the dynamics of the relationship between himself, the firm and me when looking at a senior management/partner post. He knew when to push things along and when to take a back seat – but remained supportive throughout. I believe I have, with Peter’s considerable assistance, taken a role in practice that has and will give me all of what I was looking for. I would certainly recommend Peter’s services to colleagues and friends alike. Thank you Peter for all your help.”  J.D. Audit/Accounts

"The advice and guidance Peter provided me with prior to interviews helped me feel better prepared and as a result more relaxed.  He was also very good at keeping me informed with any feedback following interviews and the status of my applications. I would have no hesitation in recommending Peter to someone in a similar situation to myself (had to leave a Big 4 firm due to exam failures).  His experience and industry knowledge were a great benefit in securing my new role at an independent accountancy firm."   S.H.  Audit & Accounts

“Peter helped me make my first move in practice after a number of years.  I felt he really understood the type of role and firm I was looking for and was able to suggest suitable jobs for me.  I never found Peter to be pushy and he always understood when I said a role didn't sound quite right.  Although it took time to find a role that was perfect, Peter kept in touch regularly so when the right job came up I knew about it. Peter always took the time to speak before and after interviews with help and advice.  He also provided some useful interview practice questions and background on the firm, which meant I was fully prepared for my interview. It was good to have Peter acting as a go between when it came to the contract negotiations, as I never felt put in an awkward position with a potential new employer. Both my old and new employer spoke highly of Peter, which was a good sign. I would certainly, and have already, recommended Peter to my friends.”  L.J. Audit & Accounts

“Peter was a great help with my first move from a firm which I had been at for 5 years since starting out as a trainee.  I had recently moved to Leeds and the plan was always to work for one of the larger accountancy firms in the city.  Peter's knowledge and contacts were invaluable in helping me successfully relocate to one of the top 6 firms.  Although I had no specific practical experience in the sector I now work in (Business Restructuring Services), Peter was able to offer me suitable preparation and confidence that I could do the job and, more importantly, enjoy it.  He is never far away should you need help or have questions around the role, CV or career strategies and his attention to detail is second to none.  Peter helped me perfect my CV so that I attracted potential employers in the area I was looking in.  We were always on the phone discussing interview strategies, likely questions and the best way to prepare and present myself to any prospective employers.  All of his help really paid off and culminated in me being offered a place with my first choice firm.  From first-hand experience, Peter's advice and industry knowledge is first class and I would recommend anyone looking for a new role or challenge to actively speak to Peter."  M.P. Business Restructuring

“In helping to secure a senior level (Director) role, Peter acted as a tremendous mentor, helping to keep the momentum during the recruitment process. He spent the time to get to know me and listened carefully to feedback, providing practical advice when necessary. His ability to liaise between the two parties helped enormously and made sure I was making the right move. I have no doubts in recommending Peter to you.”  I.O. Audit & Accounts

"Peter helped me with my first move after working at a Big 4 firm for five years. He took care to find out what career path I was interested in following and my ultimate goals and advised me not only on the jobs I should be looking for to achieve these but the ones I should be avoiding. Peter appeared genuinely interested in my career and investing in my long term future and not just turning a quick profit by placing me in a potentially unsuitable position. He supported me through both my interviews, aptitude tests and all the way through to actually starting the job. I would not hesitate to recommend Peter over other recruitment consultants and will certainly be contacting him when the time comes for my next move."
 E.S. Tax

"In the summer of 2010 I approached Peter MacDonald to help me find a job with one of the Big 4 Accountancy firms. This was at a time when the job market was stagnant and there were very few, if any opportunities available. Yet we worked together on a strategy to ensure I was successful in securing my dream job. Peter was able to help me to perfect my CV so it attracted potential employers instantly and as a result 3 of the 4 firms showed interest and wanted to interview me. The next stage was to ensure I had a polished and professional approach to interviews, something I was not overly confident in however, with numerous practice sessions I felt confident and prepared for the gruelling interviews. This all paid off and I was offered a place with the first firm that interviewed me. I would recommend meeting with Peter to anyone searching to progress their career. His advice and industry knowledge is first class and he would be my first port of call should I require any future help in this area."
 H.S. Audit

"Making the move out of audit after qualification was a huge decision that I had to get right. Peter took time to understand exactly what I wanted out of my future role and he only ever approached me with suitable jobs. As he had previously worked in Corporate Finance, he was extremely useful in explaining the position and preparing me on the most likely interview questions. This made the whole interview process far less stressful. I am now in a role which I love and I would recommend his service very highly."
 N.H. Corporate Finance

"Peter helped me to relocate to Leeds from Ireland. As I had no contacts in Leeds Peter's local knowledge and expertise were vital in helping me to secure a new job in Leeds. Peter met with me and discussed what kind of job I was looking for. He reviewed my CV before submitting it to the employer, gave me helpful hints on the background of the potential employer, together with a document outlining the history of the company. He kept me updated on how the job search was progressing regularly and was available for questions at any time. Once I had my first interview, he gave me helpful feedback and information for my second interview and he followed up with the employer on numerous occasions in order to get a final decision from them. Peter was always professional and helpful throughout the whole process. I would definitely recommend Peter to my friends. "
D.F. General Practice.