It’s time to capitalise on your creativity.
We represent three cohorts of talent: Permanent, Freelance and Advisors.
We represent global brands and agencies looking for permanent hires
It starts with us deeply understanding who you are, what lights you up and where you want to grow next.
We work with companies to build out global fractional, part time or freelance teams
Many of our clients work with us exclusively to build global pools of talent that they can build deep relationships with and rebook.
Advisory work is working with people you believe in.
We represent advisors, chairs and non-execs with our portfolio of clients, so you can grow together.
Molly placed me at Midnight Club recently but it felt a little deeper than that. She listened to what I was really after (it wasn't a straightforward brief as I wasn't necessarily looking for an ad agency). I was really blown away by how candid and communicative she was and it always felt like she had my best interests at heart. She was amazing the whole way through the process and that made the decision to take the role an easy one. I've worked with a load of recruiters, both for myself and finding talent, and I've never had such a good experience.
Working with Molly is a joy. Mainly because whenever we chat it's an open conversation on everything from creativity to the industry as a whole. She sees the bigger picture in things and importantly understands chemistry which is so much of what makes good work. She sees things about yourself you might have missed in your CV and puts you in places where those things are valued.
I didn’t think I was looking for a new role until Molly made me realise what I actually wanted from my next chapter. She asked the right questions, created space for honesty, and gently (but brilliantly) pushed me to think bigger. Somehow she saw the version of me I was growing into before I did… and then landed me at Fold7 as Deputy ECD. She’s genuinely in your corner, and that makes all the difference.
I’ve worked closely with Ellie for a number of years now. She’s a highly effective partner in decoding and mapping the future of the industry in order to help you find your place within it. When it comes to understanding the specific dynamics of culture-driven agencies and what they need to grow, Ellie just gets it.
I’ve worked with Ellie/Unknown for many years—first as a recruiter supporting my own career move, and later to help me build out my team once I was placed in a new role. Both sides of the experience have been exceptional. Ellie approaches every brief with genuine curiosity, taking the time to understand the nuances so she can bring real precision when matching roles and people. The process is seamless end to end, and whether you’re hiring or being hired, you always feel fully supported.
Megs was a breath of fresh air in my job search! Her communication was great, she was easy to talk to, and was always happy to help and provide me feedback. I was nervous about branching into a new industry, but Megs put me at ease and was super encouraging throughout the whole process.
Megan was an absolute gem to work with! Throughout the whole process, communication was quick and clear, and she was super willing to help with any questions I had. I really felt like she cared about me, my progression, and my career, and it made my experience with her even lovelier. Thank you, Megan!
You get everybody in the industry that you're expecting to meet, and then you get sideswiped by a name you've never heard of...and they turn out to be a perfect fit.
Woody is an absolute pleasure to work with. He’s thoughtful, positive, and genuinely understanding. His impressive attention to detail and enthusiasm gave me the confidence I needed and truly prepared me for the roles ahead.
Over the years Woody has helped connect me with both amazing employers and talent. He’s also offered valuable advice, wisdom and guidance. I would recommend getting in touch with him to anyone who is trying to navigate the design industry.
FAQs
Permanent
How does UNKNOWN help creative humans and leaders move permanently?
We introduce transformative talent into environments that accelerate growth - for both individual and business.
What levels do you work with?
From senior individual contributors to executive leaders - especially those shaping creative, design, and strategy.
What makes UNKNOWN different from recruitment companies?
We don’t focus on where you’ve been. We focus on who you want to become. Every move is about moving up and to the right in every single way. So, expect to feel challenged, and hopefully surprised about where you could grow next.
What else?
We’re bothered about commercials. Like… really bothered. We deeply believe that everyone has a unique set of skills that, if given the right environment, should be inevitably very valuable. It’s our job to spot that. And put you in a place that couldn’t live without you.
What industries do you cover?
Creative agencies, design studios, brand consultancies, social and influencer agencies, everything in-between them and fast-growing brands where creativity is being capitalised for growth.
Freelancer
What is the UNKNOWN Bench for freelancers?
It’s a curated network of world-class freelancers matched to top creative companies on demand.
How do I join the Bench?
Submit your details and availability - we’ll match you to projects aligned with your skills and ethos.
What kind of freelance work is available?
Creative, strategic, and leadership projects across brand, design, and digital product - from weeks to months.
Why is the Bench better than marketplaces?
It’s overwhelming out there. And it’s hard how to know who to trust. So, we’re focusing on the curation end of freelance to make it much more enjoyable for everyone involved. Every connection is human-curated. We prioritise chemistry, context, and creative calibre over volume.
Can freelancers become permanent later?
Yes. Many engagements evolve into partnerships or permanent positions when both sides align on ambition and culture.
Portfolio Advisor
What is a portfolio advisory role?
It’s when experienced C-level leaders, founders, or chairs advise multiple creative companies - guiding them through key stages of growth, transformation, or capital events.
Who is portfolio advisory right for?
Leaders who’ve built or scaled creative businesses and now want to share their experience with emerging founders or investor-backed ventures.
How does UNKNOWN connect advisors with companies?
We act as the bridge - matching seasoned leaders to businesses needing board-level guidance on scaling, restructuring, or preparing for investment or sale.
What value does an advisor bring to a creative business?
Perspective, credibility, and pattern recognition - helping founders avoid mistakes, accelerate decisions, and unlock both creative and commercial growth.
How do I join UNKNOWN’s portfolio advisor network?
Share your experience, sectors of expertise, and preferred level of involvement. We’ll connect you with companies where your insight can drive measurable impact.