Performance, progression, and reward in recruitment: Thomas Bott
posted 13 Jan 26
In this month’s Consultant Career Story, we feature Thomas Bott, Business Director at Henderson Scott. Since joining in 2021 as an Associate Consultant, Tom has progressed rapidly through multiple promotions, qualified for numerous High Flyers incentives, and achieved a billing milestone of £500K+ in 2025.
Here, he reflects on his journey so far, what has driven his success, and his advice for those considering a career in recruitment.
Can you give us a brief overview of your journey at Henderson Scott?
I joined Henderson Scott in August 2021 as an Associate Consultant. Before the end of that year, I progressed to Consultant and reached Senior Consultant in 2022.
From there, I moved into Principal Consultant, then Managing Consultant/Divisional Manager, before being promoted to Business Director in December 2025. Alongside each step, I have qualified for multiple High Flyers incentives, reflecting consistent performance.
What originally attracted you to Henderson Scott, and what has kept you here as you've progressed?
Originally, I joined because I wanted the opportunity to earn well. I had been planning to join the military, but shoulder surgery meant I would not pass the medical, so I shifted gears. Recruitment offered a clear route to high earnings if you were willing to put the work in.
What has kept me here is the competitiveness and having something to work towards. There is always a leaderboard and a clear goal in sight, and that motivates me. I like having targets and being able to measure myself against them.
What does your current role involve, and what do you enjoy most about it?
My role involves managing both candidates and clients to facilitate career moves. The part I enjoy most is seeing someone we place go on to earn significantly more money or take on a challenge they have been looking for. It is satisfying to know you have played a part in that.
What achievements are you most proud of so far?
A few achievements stand out for me. One of the best parts of the job has been how varied it is. I have travelled to places like Canada, France, Austria, Scotland, and London for client meetings and events, which keeps the role interesting and has given me exposure to different markets. I have also helped candidates relocate overseas and negotiated salary moves that have genuinely changed people’s lives.
I’m also proud of the billing milestones I have hit. They’ve played a big part in my progression and have given me opportunities both at work and in my personal life.
What do you value most about the team, leadership, and wider culture at Henderson Scott?
The job can be tough, but the team makes a big difference. We have a group who work hard, support each other, and step up when needed. I have learned a lot from experienced leaders, and that has helped me both professionally and personally.
Culturally, there is a healthy competitive environment with clear incentives, and aiming for Annual High Flyers each year keeps me focused.
What qualities or behaviours have been most important in driving your progression and results?
For me, discipline and structure are essential. Recruitment has its highs and lows, and you can go from hero to zero in a day, so being able to handle that and keep moving is crucial.
Staying consistent during the tougher weeks is often what sets up the wins later.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about a career in recruitment or joining Henderson Scott?
It is a tough job, and there is no point sugar-coating it. The first six months are spent learning the market, the processes, and the skills. After that, things get easier as you build connections and start creating your own success.
Joining HS is like joining a rugby or football team. You learn from your coaches and teammates before you start contributing to the team’s goals, and if you put the work in, the rewards are there.
Interested in building your own career story with Henderson Scott? Explore our current opportunities.
Want to hear more about life at Henderson Scott? Read Rowan’s story of fast progression in Legal recruitment
