Specialist search consultancy for senior commercial talent in the Hospitality industry

Built by hospitality professionals, not just recruiters

What we do

HBD Partners is a specialist consultancy dedicated to securing senior commercial talent for the Hospitality industry.

With over 30 years' experience and a deep-rooted network across the sector, we understand what great looks like at every level — and we know how to find it. We work as a true search partner, taking the complexity out of senior hiring so you can focus on building a business-defining team.
Beach luxury pool bar resort sea view
Dubai skyline and desert landscape

How we work

At HBD Partners, integrity and authenticity aren't just values — they shape every conversation, every relationship, and every decision we make. We take the time to understand what truly matters to our clients and candidates before we begin, which is why most of our business comes through recommendation. That trust is something we work hard to earn, every time.
Exceptional knowledge of our sector
Every search is targeted and purposeful, drawing on decades of relationship-building across the Hospitality industry. Our depth of sector knowledge means we don't just know the market — we're embedded in it, staying close to the people, movements and trends that matter at senior commercial level.

What our clients and candidates say

We can talk about what makes HBD Partners different — but our clients and candidates do it better. The relationships we build at senior commercial level are built on trust, discretion and results, and we're proud that so many of the people we work with choose to recommend us. Here's what they have to say.

I have worked with Mark and HBD over the past 2 years with my various clients, one of these a hotel opening. When recruiting it is really key for me that I have a contact who communicates regularly, understands the job requirements, the culture of the company and knows the team involved plus knowing me and if this candidate will be the "correct fit" . Mark understands all of the above and will find a candidate which meets the above criteria. In addition to the above Mark is easily contactable at all times, very approachable, responsive and makes you laugh when you need it! It makes working with HBD and Mark a pleasure.

Fiona Morgan Global Director of Sales, Marketing & PR | Lore Group

It was a pleasure working with Mark and Jade at HBD when going through the recruitment process for my new role. They were pleasant and professional at every stage with clear and timely communication. I felt like they treated me as a person and not just another candidate, and really understood the type of role that I was looking for.

Alison Wheatley Founder | AW Marketing Communications

HBD were a pleasure to work with during my time as Director of Sales & Marketing at Shangri-La The Shard, London. Will took the time to understand our brief and consistently delivered high-quality, well-screened candidates with clear communication and timely execution. I'd happily recommend Will and the HBD team to any hospitality business looking for a recruitment partner they can trust.

Rohit Kapur Director of Sales & Marketing | Shangri-La The Shard, London

I've had the pleasure of working with Will and the team at HBD Partners on a number of senior recruitment assignments, and I can confidently say they are one of the most professional and effective executive search partners I've worked with.
HBD Partners take the time to genuinely understand our business, our culture, and the calibre of leadership we're looking for. Rather than simply presenting candidates, they provide a carefully curated shortlist of exceptional individuals who are aligned with both the role and our values.
Their market knowledge, discretion, and commitment to delivering a first-class service are second to none. Communication throughout every assignment has been proactive, transparent, and responsive, making what can often be a challenging process feel seamless.
For any organisation seeking a trusted partner to identify and attract outstanding talent within the luxury hospitality sector, I would have no hesitation in recommending Will and the team at HBD Partners.

Duncan Swanson Chief People Officer | Cheval Collection

Working with Mark at HBD Partners was a genuinely positive experience. From the outset, he took the time to understand our business, the requirements of the role, and the cultural attributes that were important to us. The quality of candidates presented was excellent, with each one carefully aligned to the brief. Throughout the process, communication was proactive, professional and transparent, making the appointment process both efficient and effective. We have successfully recruited a key leadership hire.

Ameesh Shah Chief Finance Officer | The Sirius Hotel Group

We were very impressed with the level of attention given to the position we were recruiting for. HBD provided us with a great selection of candidates and adapted to the brief as feedback was given with regards to unsuitable candidates. We wouldn't hesitate to use them again!

Kelly Featherstone Director of Sales | Flospitality UK

I have had the pleasure of working with Will for many years. He has consistently delivered great candidates for the roles being searched for and is meticulous in understanding the needs of the client. His professionalism and business morality can never be questioned and his positive attitude always makes it a pleasure to connect. I would have no hesitation to recommend Will and HBD Partners to any client and candidate alike.

Edward Pinchard Chief Commercial Officer | Generator & Freehand Hotels

Mark, I just wanted to thank you for your help with my recent job application. Although I wasn’t successful, I had a great experience dealing with you and hopefully our paths will cross again. You and Will have both been outstanding in dealing with me and stand head and shoulders above other recruiters.

Ashley Cole Vice President Operations | Generator Hostels