Salary, training, onboarding, executive search fees. We understand the cost of hiring. Not to mention the hidden costs of a bad hire if something does go wrong.

All too often, Private Equity firms are made to accept this loss.

We weren't happy with this, so we set out to change it. Hiring for your firm shouldn't be a risk

That's why we're de-risking executive search for all our clients, with our full money back guarantee and free candidate replacement service.

For full details on how we're de-risking your next hire.

Money-back Guarantee

<h3>Executive Search, Without the <span style="color: #e4342a;">Risk</span>.</h3>

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

Private equity firms have less than 25% success rate on executive appointments. Change that today.

Raw Selection is a leading executive search consultancy for lower to middle-market Private Equity firms and their Portfolio Companies. We work across Europe and North America to find exceptional talent and de-risk the executive search process.

Risk and reward may be an inseparable pair in Private Equity but the same doesn’t have to be said for Private Equity executive search. <br><br><b>Founded in 2017</b> with one objective: Offer meticulous executive search risk-free.

While search firms have traditionally looked at the here, now and exit, leaving organisations with average performance, loss of productivity and often, a skills gap, Raw Selection was built on the principles of longevity and excellence.

We work with Private Equity Firms and their Portfolio Companies to find the skills and experience needed today, tomorrow and until exit. It’s this longevity and excellence that we look for in your next hire and in the very unlikely event that we don’t find it, we’ll offer you your money back.

Unlike traditional investing, investing in your human capital with Raw Selection is the only way to get a return on investment with every hire.

Raw Selection continues to invest in candidate assessment processes and raising standards to ascend to be the leading Private Equity executive search partner. We pride ourselves on being the last executive search you will ever have to work with. Partner with us to take the risk out of your next Executive Search assignment. 

Executive Search, without the risk.

<p style="text-align: left;">20% to 30%&mdash;that&rsquo;s how low the success rates can be for hiring the right executives in Private Equity, despite exceptional leadership being critical for portfolio company success.</p><p style="text-align: left;">In How to Hire, Alex Rawlings, Founder and Managing Partner of Raw Selection, shares a definitive guide to mastering executive Executive Search for Private Equity.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Drawing on over a decade of experience and insights from thousands of interviews, Alex uncovers the strategies to hire leaders who deliver results.&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align: left;">This practical, actionable framework is designed to revolutionize your hiring process, boost your success rates, and ensure the right leaders are in the right roles.</p><p style="text-align: left;">If you're serious about de-risking executive Executive Search and driving portfolio success, this book is your essential resource.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Join the waiting list to be among the first to get your hands on this essential guide and take your executive Executive Search to the next level.</p>

How to Hire by Alex Rawlings

<p>20% to 30%&mdash;that&rsquo;s how low the success rates can be for hiring the right executives in Private Equity, despite exceptional leadership being critical for portfolio company success.</p>
<p>In How to Hire, Alex Rawlings, Founder and Managing Partner of Raw Selection, shares a definitive guide to mastering executive Executive Search for Private Equity.</p>
<p>Drawing on over a decade of experience and insights from thousands of interviews, Alex uncovers the strategies to hire leaders who deliver results. This practical, actionable framework is designed to revolutionize your hiring process, boost your success rates, and ensure the right leaders are in the right roles.</p>
<p>If you're serious about de-risking executive Executive Search and driving portfolio success, this book is your essential resource.</p>

HOW TO HIRE 

<h3>Private Equity Executive Search, Without the <span style="color: rgb(228, 52, 42);">Risk</span>.</h3>

Roles We Recruit For

Partner with us to take the risk out of your next Executive Search.

Macroeconomic headwinds, ecosystem losses and geopolitical tensions have all had a huge impact on the investment landscape. There is thought to be a back-log of unsold Portfolio Companies, of four times the value than during the 2008 financial crisis*

Strong portfolio management has never been more crucial. After all, why purchase a great company and then hire ordinary managers to take it to the next level?

Raw Selection specialises in helping Private Equity firms find investment professionals who can unlock access to the most lucrative opportunities. We then help their Portfolio Companies to build exceptional operating teams who know how to seize them.

We can match your Portfolio Company with executives who can navigate economic downturns, build sustainable revenue generation, perfect your organisational structure and up-skill existing teams to ensure your company evolves in a constantly changing market. In the unlikely event that we can’t, we’ll offer you your money back.

That’s how we offer Private Equity executive search, without the risk.

Browse our live roles across some of the most exciting Portfolio Companies that the world has to offer and see where your next role could take you.

Reach out to us to discover more about our automation platform and how we can assist you in reaching your business objectives.

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?

We're passionate about connecting great companies with the talent they need to thrive. To attract top talent with our targeted sourcing strategies.

We connect talented professionals like you with exciting opportunities at industry-leading companies.

Hiring Private Equity talent

Advancing Your Private Equity Career

<p>As we often say, your people are your greatest assets. Here we unfold what you can expect from each of our three levels of service and the investment required.</p>

We offer executive search without the risk, Here’s what else you can expect.

<h2>OUR CLIENTS</h2>

Hiring Talent

Advancing Your Career

We hope these FAQs answer your questions and look forward to having you on The Private Equity Podcast!

Frequently Asked Questions

What People Think About The Private Equity Podcast!

Showcase Your Expertise

Enhance Your Visibility

Join a Thriving Community

Are you a leader in the private equity industry with valuable insights and experiences to share? Be our next guest on The Private Equity Podcast. This is your opportunity to join an exclusive group of industry pioneers who have inspired thousands with their stories and expertise.

Be Our Next Guest on The Private Equity Podcast

Join a fast-growing Portfolio Company and make it happen.

Portfolio Companies serve as a launchpad to success, offering unparalleled exposure and autonomy that allow executives to make a big impact.

Typically boasting small teams with flat structures, working within a Portfolio Company means access to stakeholders, a voice in strategic decision making and less bureaucracy.

You can also expect to receive higher compensation with incentive plans and bonuses tied into the long-term performance of the company, something you can help shape into success.

Raw Selection works with some of the fastest-growing Portfolio Companies across Europe and North America and they need senior executives like you to turn their ambition into a reality.

Do you want to make an impact?

Upload CV

 Executives that make an impact on your exit.

We have built a thriving ecosystem of c-level executives with proven Private Equity-backed experience across Europe and North America. Get in touch today to see how they can take your portfolio company to the next level.

Make a move today.

Private Equity firms are an intellectual playground. They pave an exciting career path for competitive, entrepreneurial and dedicated individuals who are excited by working with some of the brightest investors in the world.

With high compensation and an opportunity to play a hand in some of the largest and most exciting Private Equity deals in history, Private Equity can offer a phenomenal path to success.

Raw Selection works with some of the brightest investors and most successful Private Equity firms across Europe and North America. Browse our live Private Equity roles today and see if you could join them.

Do you want to work with some of the best and brightest investors that Europe and North America have to offer?

Hosted by Alex Rawlings the Founder &amp; Managing Partner of Raw Selection, a specialist executive search firm. Join us as we interview the leading experts in Private Equity, unlocking their secrets of success to share with you.

Discover how some of the top Private Equity executives rose to success and learn from their journey to ascend yours.

Alex is straight-talking and to the point and aims to unlock real gold you can build into your firm or portfolio companies.

Listen

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History of Raw Selection

What people are saying about us!

“We have an impeccable track-record of working with a host of lower to middle-market Private Equity firms and Portfolio Companies across the Healthcare and Industrial Services industries. Find out what they have to say about Raw Selection here.”

We offer Executive Search without the risk, But don’t just take our word for it.

Contact Us

Check out all the cool perks you get when you join our team!

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU

At Raw Selection we are subject matter experts first, recruiters second. We work collaboratively behind the scenes to find exceptional talent for your Private Equity firm and Portfolio Company. All while removing the risk from Executive Search of course.

Who you'll be working with

Alex founded Raw Selection in 2017 and has been dedicated to growing the business and proving exceptional service for our clients ever since.  On the off chance Alex takes a day off, he’ll be spending it with his son, his dog Toby, or on DIY projects that (sometimes) get finished.  Ask Alex about: When his last day off was. Seriously. Nobody knows

<h6>Alex is the driving force behind the focus on excellence and mastery and the name behind Raw Selection.</h6>
<p data-start="65" data-end="575">Alex Rawlings is the Founder and Managing Partner of <strong data-start="118" data-end="135">Raw Selection</strong>, an executive search firm he launched in 2017 to provide Private Equity firms and their portfolio companies with a rigorous, process-driven approach to identifying and securing exceptional talent. With over a decade in executive search, Alex has built a reputation for <strong data-start="405" data-end="441">de-risking executive search</strong> by focusing on repeatable, high-impact search processes that consistently deliver the right leaders for investor-backed businesses.</p>
<p data-start="577" data-end="993">A true student of business and leadership, Alex is the <strong data-start="632" data-end="659">author of <em data-start="644" data-end="657">How to Hire</em></strong> and a firm believer in continuous self-development. His extensive personal library is filled with books on leadership, management, and performance, with <strong data-start="813" data-end="833">Patrick Lencioni</strong> ranking as his favourite author. Alex applies these insights daily, ensuring Raw Selection operates at the highest level of effectiveness and client service.</p>
<p data-start="995" data-end="1281">He also shares his expertise as the <strong data-start="1031" data-end="1071">host of <em data-start="1041" data-end="1069">The Private Equity Podcast</em></strong>, a leading industry podcast with over <strong data-start="1110" data-end="1126">100 episodes</strong>, where he interviews top Private Equity professionals and portfolio executives to extract actionable insights on leadership, hiring, and value creation.</p>
<p data-start="1283" data-end="1484">When he&rsquo;s not working&mdash;<strong data-start="1305" data-end="1322">which is rare</strong>&mdash;Alex can be found spending time with his wife Lucy, son Theodore, and dog Toby, or watching the rugby with a glass of spiced rum from his extensive collection.</p>
<p data-start="1486" data-end="1627" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">If you&rsquo;re looking for a <strong data-start="1510" data-end="1572">highly effective, no-nonsense approach to executive search</strong>, Alex and the team at Raw Selection are ready to help.</p>
<h6>A testimonial from Paul Doyle Managing Partner at Blackford Capital post working with Alex.</h6>
<p><em>Over the years, I have worked with many recruiting and staffing agencies, and there are a few key qualities I consistently look for in professional partners. As you read my criteria, I want you to know that Alex Rawlings and the team at Raw Selection have exemplified all these qualities at an exceptional level.</em></p>
<ol start="1" type="1">
<li style="font-style: italic;">
<p><em><strong>True Partnership</strong>: I value recruiting partners who are genuinely invested in finding the best person to serve my organization&mdash;not just someone to fill a role. This means taking the time to deeply understand my company, its objectives, strategies, and, most importantly, its culture. Alex and his team have done this remarkably well.</em></p>
</li>
<li style="font-style: italic;">
<p><em><strong>Determination, Grit, and Follow-Through</strong>: I look for partners who are relentless in their mission to achieve results. It's not just about the hours they put in; it&rsquo;s about their unwavering focus on accomplishing the task. Raw Selection embodies this mindset.</em></p>
</li>
<li style="font-style: italic;">
<p><em><strong>Professional Competence</strong>: While essential, I rank this last among my criteria because I take it as a given. That said, Alex and his team excel in their market knowledge, their ability to identify top talent, and their rigorous screening process. They consistently present only the most qualified candidates, saving me an incredible amount of time and ensuring we meet our hiring goals.</em></p>
</li>
</ol>
<p><em>In summary, Alex Rawlings and Raw Selection are outstanding recruiting partners. I highly recommend them to anyone seeking to hire senior executives in the private equity space.</em><br><br><strong>Paul Doyle, Managing Partner, Blackford Capital</strong></p>

Alex Rawlings

Andrew joined us in November 2024, bringing 8 years of executive search experience to help Private Equity firms secure C-Suite and Senior Executives for their portfolio companies. He leads our resource team and made the move from Scotland to join us.  Ask Andrew about: His cool James Bond jacket.

<p data-start="56" data-end="477">Andrew Thomson leads the <strong data-start="81" data-end="115">research team at Raw Selection</strong>, ensuring that every executive search is built on <strong data-start="166" data-end="232">deep market intelligence and rigorous candidate identification</strong>. With extensive experience in leading searches across a variety of industries, Andrew plays a critical role in delivering <strong data-start="355" data-end="414">exceptional Private Equity and portfolio company talent</strong> by driving data-driven search strategies and market mapping.</p>
<p data-start="479" data-end="772">A graduate of <strong data-start="493" data-end="541">Oxford University with a degree in Geography</strong>, Andrew brings a highly analytical and structured approach to research, ensuring that Raw Selection&rsquo;s search processes are thorough, repeatable, and consistently uncover the best leadership talent for investor-backed businesses.</p>
<p data-start="774" data-end="967">When he's not immersed in executive search, Andrew is an <strong data-start="831" data-end="853">avid tennis player</strong> and enjoys spending time with his two dogs, <strong data-start="898" data-end="907">Tilly</strong>, a Border Terrier, and <strong data-start="931" data-end="940">Donny</strong>, a King Charles Spaniel.</p>
<p data-start="969" data-end="1176" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">Andrew&rsquo;s expertise in research and candidate identification makes him an invaluable asset to <strong data-start="1062" data-end="1175">Private Equity firms and portfolio companies looking for a precise and strategic approach to executive search</strong>.</p>

Andrew Thomson

Alice joined Raw Selection in 2019 and quickly got to work on improving our brand, website, customer experience, offering, and company culture.  Anything that goes wrong in the office (or in people’s personal lives) can always be traced directly or indirectly back to Alice, whether she was involved or not.  Ask Alice about: How to break the most amount of company items in the shortest amount of time.

<h3>Alice heads up our Operations and Client experience at Raw Selection</h3>
<p>With over a decade of experience in Marketing and Operations, Alice is dedicated to providing exceptional customer experiences and creating thought provoking insights for our audience of Private Equity firms and their Portfolio Companies.</p>
<p>Connect with Alice via LinkedIn or email to access one of our many e-books for Private Equity firms with titles including &lsquo;How to attract, secure and retain great talent&rsquo; and &lsquo;knowing when to fire your executives&rsquo;.&nbsp;</p>
<p>With a focus on thought leadership, Alice is always looking for new perspectives to bring back into Private Equity firms so if there is a topic you are interested in learning more about, please get in touch.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

Alice Chapman

Garo brings over 5 years of executive search experience to our sourcing team. Originally from New Zealand, Garo has a sharp eye for finding top talent and plays a key role in connecting the right people with the PE firms and their portfolio companies.  Fun fact, Garo used to be in a band (We’re still waiting for him to treat us to a performance!)  Ask Garo about: Bristol, his thoughts on Paw Patrol, Green Street - his favourite Christmas movie. 

<p>Garo Kassabian is an experienced Senior Associate on Raw Selection&rsquo;s Portfolio Team, specialising in sourcing high-impact talent for Private Equity firms and their portfolio companies. With a proven track record and deep expertise, Garo excels at identifying, engaging, and qualifying candidates who deliver real results.</p>
<p>As a seasoned sourcer, Garo combines strategic insight, market intelligence, and a keen eye for quality to uncover exceptional talent in even the most competitive and niche markets. His dedication to building strong, reliable talent pipelines ensures Raw Selection consistently provides clients with leaders who drive growth, value, and success.</p>

Garo Kassabian 

Jack joined us out of University at the start of 2020, and immediately took to the world of Private Equity. Since then, he has seen the quickest career progression of anyone in the business, joining us an Associate, he now heads up his own team, securing C-Suite executives in Aerospace and Defence, Industrial and Manufacturing. Ask Jack about: Cooking, Derby FC, being voted the most Italian in the office, and why he's not allowed to make recommendations on work nights out anymore.  

<h6>Jack works with Private Equity-backed Portfolio Companies across the Healthcare and Industrial Services sectors to find exceptional C-suite and senior executives.</h6>
<p data-start="63" data-end="430">Jack Burns is a <strong data-start="79" data-end="168">specialist in executive search for Private Equity firms and their portfolio companies</strong>, focusing on the manufacturing sector with specialist knowledge in the <strong data-start="193" data-end="238">Aerospace &amp; Defence </strong>and<strong data-start="193" data-end="238"> Building Products </strong>market. He works closely with investors and leadership teams to identify <strong data-start="305" data-end="327">exceptional talent</strong> that can drive value creation and operational excellence in high-growth, investor-backed businesses.</p>
<p data-start="432" data-end="780">What Jack loves most about Private Equity is its <strong data-start="481" data-end="503">constant evolution</strong>&mdash;top executives are always developing <strong data-start="541" data-end="594">new models, strategies, and investment approaches</strong>. This ever-changing landscape demands a <strong data-start="635" data-end="669">dynamic and adaptable skillset</strong>, something Jack carefully assesses when mapping and expanding his <strong data-start="736" data-end="777">network of high-performing executives</strong>.</p>
<p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/szYtfME0-a4" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<blockquote>
<div>
<p class="MsoNormal">"I have worked with many recruiting firms over the years, but Raw Selection is by far the best. Jack Burns is a model recruiter, efficient, knowledgeable, high energy&hellip; a pleasure to work with.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">No one likes to pay fees to hire employees, but the right position, placed in a timely fashion, pays for itself.&rdquo;</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Operating Partner, Ventoux Industrial Holdings</p>
</div>
</blockquote>

Jack Burns 

Haleema joined us in 2020 as a law graduate with a Recruitment background. She may have been voted most likely to cry at work, but that doesn't stop her from showing up every day and being the hardest worker in the room in the search for excellence for her clients. Haleema heads up the Private Equity division, partnering with PE firms across the East Coast to fill their Investment teams. Ask Haleema about: Mindset, Self-development, and designer handbags.

<h6>Haleema's meticulous approach and 24/7 work ethic are the perfect mix to lead Raw Selection's Private Equity division.</h6>
<p data-start="68" data-end="437">Haleema Hussain specializes in placing <strong data-start="107" data-end="162">senior investment professionals and operating teams</strong> within <strong data-start="170" data-end="215">Private Equity firms across North America</strong>, with a strong focus on the <strong data-start="244" data-end="258">East Coast</strong>. Known by her clients as the <strong data-start="288" data-end="317">"Queen of the East Coast"</strong>, she has built a reputation for delivering <strong data-start="361" data-end="384">high-calibre talent</strong> that aligns with the unique needs of each PE firm.</p>
<p data-start="439" data-end="930">A L <strong data-start="486" data-end="529">Law degree from BPP The University of Law</strong>, Haleema brings a <strong data-start="548" data-end="611">sharp analytical mindset and meticulous attention to detail</strong> to executive search. She understands the rigor of due diligence, the complexities of investment strategies, and the importance of elite talent in driving Private Equity success. Her ability to <strong data-start="809" data-end="843">tailor searches with precision</strong> ensures her clients secure the best executives to <strong data-start="894" data-end="927">accelerate growth and returns</strong>.</p>
<p data-start="932" data-end="1238" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">If you're looking for insights into the <strong data-start="972" data-end="1008">East Coast Private Equity market</strong>, the <strong data-start="1014" data-end="1064">key talent needed to achieve your firm&rsquo;s goals</strong>, or a <strong data-start="1071" data-end="1159">search consultant who understands both the technical and strategic side of investing</strong>, <strong data-start="1161" data-end="1185">connect with Haleema</strong>&mdash;the go-to expert for top-tier Private Equity hiring.</p>
<p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1ndFItLfLeI" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<blockquote>
<p class="MsoNormal">"Working with Raw Selection has been an extremely positive and refreshing experience.&nbsp; Haleema is incredibly knowledgeable about the PE space and is the consummate professional.&nbsp; Her follow up with candidates and her follow through with clients is detailed and thorough.&nbsp; Raw Selection offers the ultimate partnership within the full cycle recruiting process.&nbsp; I am so grateful that I worked with Haleema and the team to find my next executive role. "&nbsp;</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Klio Dicenzo</p>
</blockquote>

Haleema Hussain

Mo heads up our HVAC division, and has yet to meet a retainer he can't pitch. Mo says, "I interviewed at many firms before Raw Selection, but the moment I came into the building, met the team, and discussed the visions and growth plans Alex has for Raw Selection, it was a no-brainer. Everything aligned with my personal goals and development plans to build my knowledge and grow". Ask Mo about: Football! Manchester United specifically

<p data-start="53" data-end="481">Mohammed Vali is a <strong data-start="72" data-end="107">Vice President at Raw Selection</strong>, leading the firm&rsquo;s <strong data-start="128" data-end="171">dedicated Residential Services division</strong>, with a <strong data-start="180" data-end="243">specialist focus on the HVAC services sector across the USA</strong>. With extensive knowledge of the HVAC industry, Mohammed partners with <strong data-start="315" data-end="369">Private Equity firms and their portfolio companies</strong> to identify and secure <strong data-start="393" data-end="423">top-tier leadership talent</strong> that drives operational excellence and business growth.</p>
<p data-start="483" data-end="861">His <strong data-start="487" data-end="527">tailored, industry-specific approach</strong> ensures that every search is aligned with the <strong data-start="574" data-end="613">unique challenges and opportunities</strong> in the HVAC sector. Whether it&rsquo;s <strong data-start="647" data-end="720">placing key senior executives or building out entire leadership teams</strong>, Mohammed connects clients with <strong data-start="753" data-end="780">proven industry leaders</strong> who can optimize operations, accelerate expansion, and create long-term value.</p>
<p data-start="863" data-end="1144" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">If you&rsquo;re looking to <strong data-start="884" data-end="937">hire top-performing executives in the HVAC sector</strong>, or want insights into <strong data-start="961" data-end="1040">talent strategies for Private Equity-backed residential services businesses</strong>, connect with Mohammed for <strong data-start="1068" data-end="1143">market expertise and an unrivaled track record of successful placements</strong>.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/F4J964J7UUU" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>Testimonials:</p>
<blockquote>
<p><em>"We reached a point where one of our businesses needed more leadership. Due to explosive growth we could no longer manage under the current organizational structure. <span class="OYPEnA font-feature-liga-off font-feature-clig-off font-feature-calt-off text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-none">We engaged Raw Selection who has sound experience in our space to find the right GM with the right Culture Index profile coupled with industry experience. Within just a couple of weeks, Raw identified the right talent, expedited the interview process with our team and soon after we had the right person in the right seat doing the work that really matters. For CHS this was a critical and timely hire and Raw delivered."</span></em></p>
<p><span class="OYPEnA font-feature-liga-off font-feature-clig-off font-feature-calt-off text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-none">Paul Adams, <em>CEO, Columbia Home Services</em></span></p>
</blockquote>

Mohammed Vali

Sean is a law graduate and previously taught at The University of Bradford. Sean may be terrified of new technology and starts preparing for a 4pm call at 9:30am, but has recently been promoted to Vice President in our sourcing team, a career trajectory that pays testament to his hardworking nature and commitment to getting the job done. Ask Sean about: his favourite shirt, photography, and teaching crime statistics

<p data-start="62" data-end="388">Sean Butt is <strong data-start="75" data-end="149">relentless in the pursuit of top-tier Private Equity-backed executives</strong>. Known for his <strong data-start="165" data-end="195">dedicated, all-in approach</strong>, Sean is a firm believer that <strong data-start="226" data-end="276">exceptional talent requires exceptional effort</strong>&mdash;which is why he&rsquo;s often in the office on weekends to ensure every search is executed to the highest standard.</p>
<p data-start="390" data-end="818">His <strong data-start="394" data-end="438">meticulous and detail-driven methodology</strong> means that every executive he engages is put through a rigorous evaluation process, ensuring they don&rsquo;t just meet the brief but <strong data-start="567" data-end="619">measure up against the best talent in the market</strong>. Sean&rsquo;s ability to <strong data-start="639" data-end="733">dig deep, uncover hidden insights, and benchmark candidates against the highest performers</strong> makes him a trusted partner to Private Equity firms and their portfolio companies.</p>
<p data-start="820" data-end="1050" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">If you are exploring a next step in your career then Sean is the person&nbsp;who <strong data-start="898" data-end="928">goes further than the rest</strong>, so join his <strong data-start="951" data-end="1013">highly curated network of Private Equity-backed executives</strong>, Sean is the person to connect with.</p>

Sean Butt 

Ben is the 5th addition to our Research team, bringing sales experience and a drive to match top executives with Private Equity-backed portfolio companies. He joined Raw Selection for the challenge and growth, both personally and professionally. Ben is currently aiming to becoming fluent in French and break records on the Offa's Dyke trail. Ask Ben about: Running, rugby and music.

<p>Ben Capener is an Associate on Raw Selection&rsquo;s Portfolio Sourcing Team, specializing in finding and engaging top talent for Private Equity-backed portfolio companies. With a strong sales background, Ben excels at building relationships and understanding client needs, using his skills to connect businesses with high-quality candidates who will make a real difference.</p>
<p>Drawing on his experience in sales, Ben uses a direct, hands-on approach to find the right leadership for companies in various industries. His focus on clear communication and delivering results helps Raw Selection provide clients with the leaders they need to drive success and growth.</p>

Benjamin Capener 

Maisy joined us over summer 2023 and the office hasn't been quiet since. Maisy started with us on a digital marketing apprenticeship, and now heads up all our Digital Marketing activities. Ask Maisy about: Anything, she loves to talk! 

<p>Maisy Parrott is Raw Selection&rsquo;s Digital Marketing Associate, driving the firm&rsquo;s entire digital presence. She oversees the YouTube channel, LinkedIn, website, social media, and digital advertising, ensuring every platform delivers maximum impact and engagement.</p>
<p>Maisy is the driving force behind Raw Selection&rsquo;s online strategy, crafting content that not only elevates the brand but also connects directly with Private Equity professionals. With a sharp focus on analytics and performance, she ensures all digital media aligns with business goals, attracts the right audience, and positions Raw Selection as the go-to name in Private Equity executive search.</p>

Maisy Parrott

Aaron seems to know the lyrics for every song we play in the office, and sings them, loudly. When he's not doing Karaoke, Aaron is responsible for sourcing executive appointments for Private Equity portfolio businesses globally. Don't let his stance playing pool put you off either. Ask Aaron about: The word ” llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch”  

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<p>Aaron Griffin is a Senior Associate on Raw Selection&rsquo;s Portfolio Sourcing Team, specialising in identifying and engaging exceptional talent for Private Equity firms and their portfolio companies. Known for his sharp eye for detail and proactive approach using Raw Selection's 17 step process, Aaron ensures clients are connected to candidates who deliver measurable impact.</p>
<p>With a deep understanding of the Private Equity landscape, Aaron leverages strategic sourcing methods and market insights to uncover exceptional talent across niche and competitive sectors. His commitment to precision and quality ensures Raw Selection consistently delivers the leadership needed to drive performance and long-term success.</p>
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Aaron Griffin 

Kaj is an absolute powerhouse in our HVAC team, he gets one million leads a month! (Okay, maybe not exactly, but it’s a lot.)  Before making the move to the UK, Kaj lived in Hong Kong, and if that wasn’t cool enough, he also happens to have the cutest dog. If you’re a dog lover, you’ll get along with him instantly!  Ask Kaj about: How to pronounce his name and anything about climbing.

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<p>Kaj Sawyer-Coffey is an Associate in Raw Selection&rsquo;s HVAC team, specialising in sourcing and qualifying top talent for Private Equity-backed HVAC businesses. With a focused and proactive approach, Kaj works closely with clients to identify candidates who can deliver operational excellence and drive growth.</p>
<p>Leveraging a strong understanding of the HVAC sector and its unique challenges, Kaj uncovers high-performing leaders in this competitive space. His dedication to detail and quality ensures Raw Selection provides clients with talent capable of delivering results and creating long-term value.</p>
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Kaj Sawyer Coffey

Garikai joined us in March 2025 and Garikai comes with a background in sales, and a degree in French and Philosophy, making him a great addition to the team as he steps into recruitment. One of Garikai's short term goals is to read a book once a week and a long term goal is to achieve an ELO of 2500 in chess. Ask him about: What I am reading this week! 

<p>Garikai is an associate in our Portfolio division, where he specializes in sourcing and qualifying top talent for Private Equity-backed HVAC businesses. With a focused and proactive approach, Garikai engages with clients to identify candidates who can deliver exceptional growth and development.</p>
<p>Leveraging a strong understanding of the HVAC sector and its unique challenges, Garikai uncovers high-performing leaders in this competitive space. His dedication to detail and quality ensures Raw Selection provides clients with talent capable of delivering results and creating long-term value.</p>

Garikai Manyanya

William works in our Private Equity team as an Associate, helping place Operating Partners within PE firms across the U.S. He’s already bringing some healthy competition to the team with his friendly rivalry with Aaron over who can make the most calls each day - it’s neck and neck so far!   Fun facts about William: he’s fluent in French, and his father held a senior position in the Navy!   Ask William about: Anything history-related (he's a bit of a nerd like that)

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<p>William is an Associate on the Private Equity team, specializing in identifying top-tier Operating Partners for Private Equity firms across the U.S. A master's graduate from Aberdeen,&nbsp;William brings a global perspective to his work and, as a fun fact, is also fluent in French!</p>
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William Hayward

Ami is our Senior Internal Talent Acquisition Associate here at Raw Selection, on a mission to find the most ambitious recruiters to join our growing team. She’s not just great at spotting talent — she brings so much positivity to the office, known for having the funniest laugh and being the happiest person on the team.  Outside of work, Ami’s personal goals include owning property and traveling the world.  Ask Ami about: Health and fitness!

<p>Ami is the Senior Internal Talent Acquisition Associate at Raw Selection, leading recruitment efforts to attract and hire top talent for the company's internal teams.</p>
<p>&nbsp;Her role includes developing and executing strategic recruitment plans, managing the full hiring process, and collaborating with teams to identify candidates who align with the company&rsquo;s culture and values.</p>

Ami Wilson 

Ravi is the head of the research and data team gathering data for the team.  He combines data-driven insights with a deep understanding of the market to map out the right leaders for every search.  What Ravi enjoys most about Private Equity is how fast-paced and data-rich the industry is, using data not just to track talent but to spot patterns and trends that help build stronger leadership teams.

<h3>Ravi is the Head of Research and Data.</h3>
<p>Ravi has been a part of Raw Selection since the very founding of the business in 2017. Raw Selection believes that search assignment fundamentals are based on having the data point of every potential candidate. The build-out of this data sits with Ravi and his team, and the meticulous approach of ensuring every profile is identified. <br><br>He combines data-driven insights with a deep understanding of the market to map out the right leaders for every search.</p>

Ravi Kumar

Bhavya is a Researcher at our executive search firm, supporting Private Equity firms and their portfolio companies by identifying and mapping senior talent.   She focuses on gathering market intelligence and uncovering key insights to build strong leadership pipelines.  What Bhavya finds most exciting about Private Equity is how insight-rich the space is — using research to spot talent trends and help connect exceptional leaders with high-impact roles.

<h3 data-start="50" data-end="319">Bhavya is a Researcher at our executive search firm, supporting Private Equity firms and their portfolio companies by identifying and mapping senior talent.</h3>
<p>&nbsp;She focuses on gathering market intelligence and uncovering key insights to build strong leadership pipelines.</p>
<p>What Bhavya finds most exciting about Private Equity is how insight-rich the space is &mdash; using research to spot talent trends and help connect exceptional leaders with high-impact roles.</p>

Meet The Team