Sowerby Associates
About
Sowerby Associates is a recruitment firm focused on retail sales and direct sales. We work with some of the largest brands in the country, finding the people who stand on the shop floor, represent products in the field, and lead sales teams. Because we concentrate on sales roles, we know what to look for in a candidate and how to test for it. We agree each brief with you in detail, screen every applicant with care, and present only those we would be confident to place.
Our story
Retail sales teams depend on people who can open a conversation, read a customer and close a sale. Finding those people in volume, while holding a consistent standard, is difficult for any brand. Sowerby Associates exists to recruit sales staff who perform in direct, face-to-face selling, so that large retail brands can fill roles with candidates who are ready for the shop floor.
Our work begins with the role itself. We establish what the position demands, from product knowledge to the pace of a busy store and the realities of direct selling. We then assess candidates against those demands. We look for evidence of persuasion, resilience and sound conduct with the public. Each shortlist we present reflects that assessment, with clear notes on why each candidate suits the role.
You can expect a structured process, plain communication, and candidates who understand what a sales role involves before they attend interview. We agree the brief with you in writing before recruitment begins and keep you informed at each stage. To discuss a vacancy or a wider hiring requirement, please contact us.
What we stand for
- 01
Sales Ability Comes First
We assess candidates on how they sell, not only on what their CV says. You meet people who can demonstrate the skills the role requires.
- 02
Agreed Briefs in Writing
We confirm the role, its demands and the hiring process with you before we begin. Both sides work from the same understanding throughout.
- 03
Consistent Standards at Volume
Every candidate is measured against the same criteria, whether you are filling one position or many. Quality holds as numbers grow.
- 04
Respect for Every Candidate
Applicants receive clear information about the role and honest feedback on their progress. This keeps candidates engaged and reflects well on your brand.
Who we help
Large Retail Brands
Brands that need sales staff recruited in volume to a consistent standard, with shortlists that save managers time at interview.
Direct Sales Businesses
Companies selling face to face that need specialists who can approach customers confidently and sustain performance in demanding environments.
Store and Area Managers
Managers who need vacancies filled with candidates who understand the pace of retail and can contribute from their first shift.
Candidates Seeking Sales Roles
Sales professionals looking for retail and direct sales positions with established brands, supported by clear information and honest feedback.
How it works
- 1
Initial consultation
We discuss the roles, the number of hires, the working pattern, and your timing. We then confirm the brief and selection criteria in writing.
- 2
Search and screening
We advertise, approach suitable candidates, and conduct structured interviews and sales assessments against the agreed criteria.
- 3
Shortlist and interviews
You receive a shortlist with written notes on each candidate. We arrange interviews and gather feedback from both sides.
- 4
Offer and onboarding support
We manage the offer, confirm start dates, and stay in contact with you and the new starter through the first weeks.
Ready to start?
Tell us about the sales roles you need to fill, and we will set out how we would approach the search.