Partnership Agreement Template for Recruitment Businesses (UK 2026)

Partnership AgreementRecruitment

Last updated: February 2025

Why Recruitment Businesses Need a Partnership Agreement

Recruitment partnership agreements govern collaborations between agencies for split placements, sector referrals, and international search arrangements where agencies in different markets collaborate on cross-border hires. These must address candidate ownership when multiple agencies identify the same candidate, fee splitting arrangements, and the protection of client relationships from the partner agency. The agreement should also cover data sharing obligations under GDPR when candidate information is exchanged between agencies.

Key Clauses for Recruitment

  • Fee splitting model and payment responsibilities
  • Candidate ownership and duplicate introduction resolution
  • Client protection and non-solicitation between partner agencies
  • GDPR-compliant candidate data sharing arrangements

Common Mistakes

  • Not establishing a clear mechanism for resolving duplicate candidate situations where both agencies claim the introduction
  • Failing to include GDPR-compliant data sharing arrangements for exchanging candidate personal information between agencies

Template Sections

  • Fee splitting and payment arrangements
  • Candidate ownership and dispute resolution
  • GDPR data sharing agreement for candidate information

FAQ

How should recruitment partners resolve duplicate candidate situations?

Include a clear mechanism: typically the agency that first submitted the candidate's CV to the client is deemed to have made the introduction. Specify that introductions are timestamped, that both agencies must check for existing introductions before submitting, and that disputes are resolved by reference to documented evidence of the first introduction date.

Can recruitment partners share candidate data under GDPR?

Yes, but a lawful basis must be established and documented. Typically, legitimate interests will apply if the sharing is necessary to complete the placement. The partnership agreement should include data processing terms specifying each party's controller or processor status, the purpose of sharing, retention periods, and candidate rights. Consider whether joint controller provisions are needed.

Related Templates

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This is guidance for UK businesses, not legal advice. Templates are illustrative. Consult a solicitor for complex matters.

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