Director, Candidate Development

Madden Talent Partners is partnering with MLA Hire an Esquire to hire a Director of Candidate Development. This is a hands-on, full-desk recruiting role helping small and mid-sized law firms across the country hire attorneys.

The team currently has more incoming search opportunities than it can support. Your immediate focus will be sourcing strong candidates, building relationships, and delivering on existing searches, with the opportunity to develop client relationships and grow your desk over time.

About MLA Hire an Esquire

Hire an Esquire brings together legal recruiting and technology to make hiring easier for law firms and legal professionals. Part of Major, Lindsey & Africa since 2023, the business combines a small, collaborative team environment with the resources of an established legal recruiting organization.

This role sits within its permanent placement business, serving smaller law firms, generally with 60 attorneys or fewer.

What You’ll Do

• Own permanent legal searches, from understanding client needs through sourcing, assessment, submission, and placement.
• Build relationships with attorneys and maintain candidate pipelines aligned with client demand.
• Partner directly with law firm leaders, advise on hiring needs, and manage expectations throughout the search.
• Keep candidates and clients engaged through clear communication and timely follow-up.
• Develop new client relationships as you build your desk.
• Use Bullhorn and internal technology to manage searches efficiently.
• Share ideas and market insights that help the team improve its recruiting approach.

What We’re Looking For

• Prior legal recruiting experience, with the ability to source proactively and assess attorney backgrounds.
• Permanent placement experience is preferred; recruiters from legal contract staffing are also encouraged to apply.
• A law degree and some experience practicing law are especially attractive, though not required.
• Approximately two or more years of recruiting experience. Candidates earlier in their recruiting careers who bring a legal background and strong potential will also be considered.
• Strong written and verbal communication, sound judgment, and a consultative approach.
• The organization and urgency to manage multiple searches while maintaining strong relationships.
• A bachelor’s degree.

The Working Style That Fits

You’re motivated by results, take ownership, and enjoy helping colleagues succeed. You can navigate demanding conversations, keep perspective when a search gets challenging, and stay focused on moving things forward.

The team is closely connected, shares advice, and works through challenges together. Someone who brings personal drive, low ego, and a collaborative approach will do well here.

Location: Philadelphia is preferred, followed by Chicago. Other MLA office locations may be considered.

Hybrid expectations: Two to three office days per week during the first three months, with at least one office day per week thereafter. Office attendance may vary by local team.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

You’ll join a supportive team with existing client demand, room to build meaningful relationships, and a direct connection between your work and the growth of the business. Technology helps reduce administrative work so you can spend more time finding talent and making placements.