Hit enter to search or ESC to close

Home
About
Recruitment Services
For Candidates
For Employers
Jobs
News
Contact

Insurance Recruitment News & Market Insights

Expert commentary on hiring trends, talent movement and careers in the insurance sector.

All News

IRS 20th Birthday

IRS Award Incentive

IRS proudly sponsor Team CPNW

IRS Sponsor BIBA 2026

IRS Team Incentive Day

Testimonials

“
Telemarketing ExecutiveStockport
“I am delighted with my new role and thank Kristyn and Derek for reaching out to me. It was an absolute pleasure, and I was extremely happy with every aspect of the process. Derek was informative in his initial contact outlining the role and secured the first interview quickly. I was kept updated at every stage. Importantly, for me personally, I found Derek friendly, open and happy to cover any questions; he also demonstrated his dedication to make sure the role was right for me, having got to know me. Should the occasion arise, I would have no hesitation in recommending IRS.”

“
Customer Development ManagerEast Midlands
“I can’t speak highly enough of the service I have received from Matthew. He was friendly and professional throughout and made the whole process stress-free. Even with me being in Thailand for 2 weeks he was able to get me an interview date upon my return and kept me up to date throughout my holiday. Because of such a great service I have advised a friend of mine to get in touch and they have given me their email for me to refer them to you. Thanks again for all your help and a special thanks to Matthew for being fantastic.”

“
Claims HandlerSouthampton
“I have had a very positive experience throughout the process from both Jack and Derek...what can I say, they listened to my concerns, offered suggestions to me, especially when it came to writing out my resignation which assisted me greatly in departing from a role I had for the past 16 years! Understandably this was daunting for me but still I made it and yesterday was my last working day! Fingers crossed for my new chapter, and I will think of IRS if I hear that anyone in the insurance world is looking for a new venture.”

“
Telesales ExecutiveManchester
“It’s my pleasure providing you with feedback regarding the service I received from Tony and IRS. From day one Tony has been fantastic throughout this whole process of helping me find a new job. Within a matter of days of me contacting Tony, he rang me to tell me that one of his key clients were interested in speaking to me about a potential vacancy. All the way throughout the process Tony kept me informed about everything, from the interview process, feedback he received from the client, and help and advise me on what they might ask. Tony went above and beyond to help me. I cannot thank Tony enough for helping me find a new role in a large, well-established company and I would most definitely recommend IRS and Tony to any of my friends, family etc...”

“
Broking Team ManagerManchester
“Derek and Rianne were incredibly supportive and proactive professionals to find me a wonderful opportunity. Derek helped me with motivation and was always available to talk. Rianne was incredibly diligent and made me feel as though I was always in safe hands. Rianne was also wonderful to talk to and made me feel very comfortable. The IRS team listened to me and my wants and needs and went out of their way to help me find a wonderful opportunity. My thanks got to Derek and Rianne as I look forward to my next adventure.”

“
Corporate ReceptionistManchester
“I am actually so excited to start my new role and can’t wait to meet the team. Rianne has been amazing from the get-go, keeping me informed every step of the way and has been very supportive. Rianne is lovely, friendly, and has a warm personality; she has been a pleasure to speak with and is a credit to the team.”

“
Development ExecutiveCornwall
“Stuart has been really helpful and kept me informed throughout the entire process. I’ve been able to contact him with any questions or queries, and they have been resolved quickly. Stuart has been a pleasure to work with, and I would highly recommend him and IRS.”

“
Account ExecutiveSheffield
“I am pleased to advise that both Stuart and Denver have been very helpful to date, and I really appreciate their assistance and advice throughout the process.”

“
Account ExecutiveSwansea
“The service from both Derek and Elle has been amazing. I want to thank them both for their support throughout the process.”

“
Commercial Account HandlerManchester
“Derek and Anthony have been amazing on filling me in all the way and advising me on how to secure the position. I would like to say a massive thank you to both of them.”

“
Senior Account Manager SupportManchester
“I'm delighted with how the process went and ultimately the result too. I really would like to thank Derek and Rianne who could not have been more helpful throughout. As my case was not only finding a new role, but also relocating from Ireland to the UK being factored in it could have added an additional difficulty but Derek and Rianne were wonderful in terms of being a go-between from myself to my new employer and allowing me to secure both interviews and ultimately the job. Not only were Derek and Rianne very informative about both the role and the company, but they also provided sound advice and a level of encouragement that was greatly appreciated. In all honesty I couldn't say enough good things about both, and I feel it's safe to say I owe both a beer!”

“
Business Development ExecutiveNortheast
“I cannot praise Anthony and Derek enough and IRS recruitment. I was receiving a number of calls from recruiters but from the first moment I spoke with Anthony I could tell you were different and sure enough, not only did both Anthony and Derek do what they said they would, but they excelled and delivered more than I ever imagined with numerous interviews set up within a day of first speaking. They listened to me and what I was looking for in a role and found me several perfect matches, all of which had me knowing I was with the right people who would look after my interests. I am happy to recommend IRS to anyone looking for a new role and am so grateful to Anthony and Derek for their work in securing me so many interviews and a role I can’t wait to start.”

“
Account ExecutiveWarrington
“I’d like to say a massive thank you to IRS recruitment for their continued support throughout my journey seeking new employment. After being impacted by a redundancy in December, I had done a number of interviews lined up by other recruiters and I had a bad experience. I specifically would like to thank Stuart and Derek for their consistent feedback and support throughout my time working with them. They both lined up some good interviews for me which were suited to what type of work I was seeking, and I’ve gained some good interviewing tips off this experience. Both have called me up before and after interviews, and both have relayed feedback to me on each interview. I previously spoke with other recruitment companies that did not do half this leg work, or come back to me after I had done interviews providing me no feedback so I am grateful for all that they have done, which has ultimately landed me a new job with and top insurance broker.”

“
Account HandlerCounty Down
“I think the service from your company has been second to none, especially from Stuart. Stuart called me when he said he would and kept me informed of everything that was going on with my cv and job talks. I would recommend the company to anyone looking for a role in Insurance as you have been great. Thank you for all your time and help.”

“
Broking ManagerNorthwest
“I started my new role this week and so far, so good. Stuart has been great throughout the entire process. He’s a credit to the business. Timely contact, thorough with details, and very balanced with his approach if there were any questions/thoughts about the ongoing recruitment process. I have thanked Stuart but please pass on my thanks once more, and to all those involved.”

“
Development ExecutiveNorthwest
“I had a great experience with IRS. Both Matthew and Derek were great throughout, always keeping me up to date and ensuring I knew where we were in the process. Many thanks for all your help.”

“
Account ExecutiveBirmingham
“The service received from Derek and Rianne was second to none. They were both very professional and wanted me to have the role which suited me best rather than just place me in a new role for the sake of it. I’m very pleased with the role which they found me and can’t thank them enough. Many thanks for their efforts and hard work.”

“
Graduate Trainee BrokerManchester
“I would be more than happy to share my thoughts - although I could potentially write an essay on my experience as it was beyond positive, particularly with Derek. Working with him has been nothing short of incredible. Derek's thoughtfulness, consideration, and genuine kindness made every interaction a pleasure. He stands out as a breath of fresh air in the recruitment industry - truly an anomaly who defies stereotypes. I can't sing his praises loud enough. Additionally, while most of my communication was with Derek, I must mention that my interactions with Kristyn were also lovely. She called to congratulate me, which was a thoughtful touch and greatly appreciated. Thank you for having such remarkable individuals on your team.”

“
Account HandlerManchester
“Firstly, many thanks to IRS Recruitment and in particular to Derek Holland. Derek's commitment and positive attitude in finding me a suitable position was amazing and is truly appreciated. It has been an absolute pleasure dealing with IRS and I look forward to taking up my new position. Any people that I know looking for a new and exciting position I will definitely recommend IRS without hesitation.”

“
Account ExecutiveSouth East
“I cannot fault the service at all. Both Stuart and Elle have been fantastic and delivered on exactly what they said they would. I’m very excited to start my role and journey with a leading insurance broker. I would have no problem recommending IRS to anybody as the level of service has been fantastic.”

“
Associate DirectorCheltenham
“Thanks for the team at IRS for all their support and hard work. This appointment was a long process due to the client - I had first interviews with them at the start of the year, and then they put the role on hold till the new financial year. Matthew was quick to get back in contact when they restarted recruitment and with Stuart arranged me a MS Team’s interview. I got feedback very quickly and a face to face was arranged. This face to face included a presentation which Matthew and Stuart both reviewed in advance and Stuart gave me a lot of prep in advance. Following the face to face I got quick feedback from Stuart (he called me while on annual leave) but the decision would not be made till after the Christmas break as they needed to speak internally. Early in the new year Stuart called with the offer. Service was great from both Stuart and Matthew, and they always called when they said they would and kept me fully updated. I would definitely recommend your agency and thanks again.”

“
Sales ExecutiveManchester
“I have been meaning to contact you to provide feedback that I feel Derek & Rianne very much deserve. We are often too quick to complain but never find the time to provide feedback when we are receiving outstanding service. Derek & Rianne were always helpful, professional, & friendly but one thing that I was highly impressed with was how proactive they were. They kept in touch regularly, providing feedback & updates & always followed up in an efficient & timely manner after every touch point with potential employers. Derek was my main contact point and he clearly understood the insurance market very well. He was knowledgeable with the niche business area I work in which enabled him to find the right opportunity for me. Both Derek & Rianne gave me the confidence from the outset they would match my skill set to find the right role for me, and I couldn’t be happier in my new role. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend your company. Derek & Rianne are an asset to you & represent your company to the highest standard. Thank you for such a positive experience.”

“
Business Development ManagerLondon
“Firstly, Derek Holland was recommended to me by my older brother who made me aware that whenever he is on the hunt for ‘good people’ Derek always delivers. From my experience Derek has proven that he is extremely knowledgeable in the insurance industry and most importantly took the time to really understand my needs and what I wanted from my next role. Derek consistently presented me with opportunities that met my requirements and connected me with great people within the industry. Initial chats and interviews were arranged quickly and in a way that made it feel completely effortless. The communication between Derek and I was at times more than business, it felt comfortable and personable which made the whole process extremely enjoyable for me. I would like to personally thank Derek for being confident in my abilities, furthermore for presenting me with opportunities that I even perhaps hadn’t considered prior to working with Derek. I would highly recommend Derek and the team at IRS for their work ethic and showing the level of care and comfort in trusting the process, and really taking the time to understand a candidate and their future career aspirations. When the time is right for me to bring good people into our team, I wouldn’t go to anyone else, and I hope that we continue to keep in contact in the future.”

“
AdministratorLeicester
“This is my first time going through IRS and it’s been a great journey so far. Tony gave me a call last Wednesday and was very and went in depth about the company he filling in the role for.
He’s a good talker and definitely knows what he’s talking about. Within 48 hours of Tony first contacting me an interview had been arranged and I was offered the job. Again, Tony was amazing at reassuring me that this role was perfect and that I’m in safe hands, this gave that little bit more confidence going into the interview! He has guided me on interview tips and being so early in my career I really appreciated this. Moving from a job is daunting especially when you’ve got comfortable and 4/5 different recruiters calling everyday however IRS having an exclusive relationship with their client and getting this role first meant Tony was the only recruiter contacting me about this job. Once again thank you for being a part of career.”

“
Compliance ManagerManchester
“The interaction I have had with Derek and Rianne has been very pleasing, the turnaround in being spoken to about the job and having the interview was the quickest I have known, and things moved very fast from there. Both Derek and Rianne always kept me in the loop, and I am pleased to of been able to work with them. I will recommend to anyone I know is looking.”

“
Account ExecutiveSouth Wales
“From the very first moment dealing with Stuart I could tell he had my best interests at heart. He was very friendly and listened to my needs. He provided me with a number of personalised options based on my skills and experience. He was very patient and helpful throughout the whole process. To be honest I was not the easiest candidate because I am very busy in my day job so getting hold of me was difficult. Also, I was offered a job initially back last year but due to personal circumstances I was unable to proceed with the role even though I had told Stuart I was going to accept the role. A lot of people would have written me off then, but Stuart did not. He reached out to me again a few months later, he was still very friendly and professional. He was very understanding of my situation, and we started the recruitment process again, this time I did accept the job, and I start on the 1st of June. I would have no hesitation in recommending Stuart to family and friends. He was professional throughout, friendly and listened to my needs. He was understanding and never once “pushy”. Thank you for your help Stuart in finding me a new career.”

“
Director, Corporate BrokerageLondon
“Our company have been using IRS for many years now, using their services to fill all roles at all levels within the business. Without fail the persistence of Derek and his team will always see that the right candidate is found for the job!”

“
CEO, Corporate IndependentManchester
“I have been using Derek Holland’s service for our primary recruitment needs, since I joined the business in 2002. I have ALWAYS found him and his business IRS, to be superb. In the years since then, I have often been approached by rival firms touting their services, but Derek provides me and my business with EXACTLY what I need from a recruitment service. I have no desire nor need to look any further. Loyalty is key to me in business. I would sum up Derek Holland as follows… Extremely attentive, available whenever needed, night or day, highly organised and most of all, he has an unrivalled eye for what we need as a business. The service e provided is exceptional in all respects. In the years since we started to trade with Derek, we have grown from a staffing level of 18 to our current levels of 250. By far the majority have come from Derek. That is the best of testimonials. I recommend him and his business, without hesitation.”

“
MD, Commercial IndependentBirmingham
“IRS have been our exclusive recruitment partners for a number of years and I have dealt with Derek from day one. All staff from IRS are dedicated, understand our requirements and truly go the ‘extra mile.’ Derek and his team really understand our philosophy and culture and the talented recruits we employ through Derek has allowed us to build a forward thinking, innovative and a career driven team. I can truly call IRS a valued and trusted partner. I wouldn’t use another recruiter.”

“
Head of Office, Global BrokerageLeeds
“I’ve always found Derek and his team very professional. They listen to our needs, are innovative in their thinking and only put credible candidates in front of us so we’re not wasting anyone’s time. I would be happy to recommend their services to others.”

“
Operations Director, Corporate IndependentLondon
“I have known Derek for over 22 years, having joined via his consultancy myself in 2004. Derek is our recruitment consultant of choice as he wholly commits to providing us with candidates of the utmost quality in terms of technical ability and character that we as a business constantly demand, as we continue to grow and expand. We will only employ the best and nothing less and Derek works tirelessly to ensure that the candidates that he presents to us are those that he knows will fit into both that esteemed category as well as us as a business.”

“
Director, Commercial Independent Manchester
“Derek placed me at my first job in the commercial insurance industry, something I’ve never quite forgiven him for… Joking aside I couldn’t recommend IRS highly enough. The approach taken by Derek and his team is genuinely different from the rest, with their top priority being on finding the perfect match for your intended career progression. Being so ambitious themselves and knowing the sector inside out gives them a distinct competitive advantage, so you can be 100% confident that they can put you in front of your ideal role. It’s not just in this space that Derek has excelled. Since using IRS to assist in adding to our expanding team, we’ve had nothing but a professional, rapid, tailored approach, which is exactly what you need when you have a business to run. Once the brief was delivered, Derek did the rest.”

“
Regional Managing Director, Global Corporate Brokerage Southwest
“Derek and his team have done some excellent work over the years in not only regularly seeking strong candidates but when asked to manage a “bespoke” and “focuses” recruitment drive in a particular area they delivered a number of strong candidates all of which were new to the market. IRS remain one of our preferred and strongest recruiting partners and always a group we turn to for the more senior hirers or when a more specialist and tailored approach is required.”

“
Head of Real Estate, Corporate Brokerage London
“I have worked with Derek Holland and IRS for 15 years. Derek truly understands our business; the qualities we look for in a candidate and the budgets we work to. He has a large pool of candidates and is always able to satisfy our needs. I have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending them.”

“
Head of Client Support, Global Brokerage Northwest
“I have worked with Tony for a good few years now and he fulfils all my recruitment needs for my team. Since the moment we started speaking it felt like we had known each other for years. Tony and his team understand exactly what we need, the type of personnel that suits us and who would fit in with the team. We have recruited and kept some great staff with Tony’s recommendation, and this is a credit to his determination and understanding of our business. Tony will always go the extra mile, he will pick up calls when it is late at night, he will make sure we have everything we need to do the job well. Tony’s personality is fantastic; he always makes us laugh and makes recruitment process fun! He is a credit to IRS Recruitment, he is a colleague, part of our team, and a great friend.”

Contact us anytime for friendly, professional advice

Visit Us

Head Office
White Building
Suite 2
Level 3
MediaCityUK
M50 2NT

Contact Us

0161 738 1848

0845 543 6288

enquiries@irsrecruitment.co.uk

Close Menu

Home
About
Recruitment Services
For Candidates
For Employers
Jobs
News
Contact