If you are looking to build a killer marketing team, marketing recruitment agencies are the way to go. They have their finger on the pulse of the industry, knowing exactly who the top players are and where to find them. But it takes a whole lot of effort to find the perfect agency than just a quick online search.
To make things easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of 17 of the industry’s top-performing marketing staffing agencies along with their service offerings, candidate quality, and costs.
Shortlist: Top 5 Marketing Recruitment Agencies To Consider
We’ll be covering the full list in a bit, but for those in a hurry, here are the top 5 marketing recruitment agencies to consider:
| Agency | Service Offerings | Candidate Quality | Cost and Fees |
| Genius | Executive assistants | Strict vetting process, on-the-ground sourcing | One-time 25% fee |
| Aquent | Marketing, creative, and digital staffing | Extensive talent network, specialized in creative roles | Contact for customized pricing |
| 24 Seven | Creative talent | Boutique approach, strong in creative industries | Contact for customized pricing |
| Profiles | Marketing, creative, and digital roles | Personalized service, strong industry connections | Contact for customized pricing |
| Creative Circle | Creative roles | Focus on freelancers and full-time placements | Contact for customized pricing |
Top 17 Trusted Marketing Recruitment Agencies Worth Exploring
Now let’s review all 17 agencies that offer top marketing talent.
1. Genius
At Genius, we specialize in attracting top executive assistants through rigorous on-the-ground sourcing and a meticulous vetting process. Our expertise lies in matching your business with highly qualified candidates who are tailored to meet specific needs.
Who You Can Hire
- Marketing Managers
- Digital Marketing Specialists
- Content Marketers
- Social Media Managers
- Brand Strategists
Candidate Quality
Offers a pool of pre-screened candidates carefully chosen based on strict criteria, ensuring they perfectly match the demands of today’s executive assistant roles.
Recruitment Process
- Fill out the contact form to schedule a discovery call.
- Applicants are shortlisted based on your requirements.
- Conduct free interviews and make the final pick.
- Onboard your new marketing talent.
Cost
Charges a one-time 25% fee instead of a subscription-based model.
2. Aquent
Aquent is one of the largest staffing firms that specializes in providing talent for marketing, creative, and digital roles. They connect businesses with highly skilled professionals who can fulfill temporary, freelance, or permanent positions.
Over 400 Aquent professionals have joined 15 different Google divisions worldwide, proving just how well Aquent connects top talent with leading companies. The company is known for its extensive network of talent and rigorous recruitment practices that ensure clients receive the best candidates suited to their specific needs.
Who You Can Hire
- Graphic Designers
- Product Marketing Managers
- Marketing Analysts
- SEO/SEM Specialists
- Social Media Managers
Candidate Quality
Offers a large pool of pre-screened candidates. Ensures candidates meet high standards through a meticulous vetting process.
Recruitment Process
- Contact them for an initial consultation.
- Talent sourcing through networks and active search. Screening of candidates to shortlist them.
- Interviews and reference checks.
- Client final selection and Aquen helps with offer negotiations and onboarding.
Cost
- Hourly Rates ($30-$50 per hour for entry-level roles and going up to $150+ per hour for senior or highly specialized roles)
- Direct Hires (20% to 30% of the candidate’s first-year salary)
- Project-Based Fees (flat fee or a customized pricing model based on the project’s scope and requirements)
3. 24 Seven
24 Seven provides top talent for the creative, marketing, digital, and technology sectors. They’ve placed over 1,000 marketing pros, tailoring the hiring process so well that 98% of clients are eager to work with them again. They help businesses stay ahead by providing talent that aligns with current industry trends and innovations.
Who You Can Hire
- Email Marketing Specialists
- Brand Managers
- Marketing Coordinators
- Product Marketing Managers
- Copywriters
Candidate Quality
Ensures their candidates are of high quality through a detailed screening process, behavioral interviews, reference checks, and technical and practical evaluations.
Recruitment Process
- Connect with them and discuss your needs.
- Source talent from their network and industry expertise. Candidates undergo thorough screening.
- Qualified candidates are presented to the client. 24 Seven coordinates interviews and provides support throughout the selection process.
- They help with offer negotiation and onboarding for a smooth transition.
Cost
Pricing can vary based on the placement type and the role requirements.
4. Profiles
Founded in 1998, Profiles is a leading staffing agency that connects companies with top talent in the marketing, creative, and technology fields. They are a top choice of many Fortune 500 companies as they focus on providing professionals who can thrive in dynamic environments and contribute to your business’s success.
Who You Can Hire
- Digital Marketing Managers
- Content Strategists
- UX/UI Designers
- Graphic Designer
- Web Developers
Candidate Quality
Offers a curated pool of pre-screened candidates who are rigorously vetted to meet high industry standards.
Recruitment Process
- Contact them to share your requirements.
- Client consultation and talent sourcing.
- Screening and evaluation of potential candidates.
- Final selection of candidate and offer negotiation assisted by Profiles.
Cost
Range from 15-25% of the candidate’s first-year salary for their staffing services.
5. Creative Circle
With 20+ years in the industry, Creative Circle provides top-tier talent for creative, marketing, and digital roles. Their recruiters have deep industry knowledge and come from creative backgrounds themselves. This provides an added layer of understanding and insight when matching candidates to roles. They offer a variety of hiring solutions – contract-to-hire and direct hire placements – to cater to both short-term projects and long-term needs.
Who You Can Hire
- Graphic Designers
- UX/UI Designers
- Art Directors
- Copywriters
- Digital Marketing Specialists
Candidate Quality
Ensures that all candidates undergo a thorough screening process, including portfolio reviews, skill assessments, and interviews, to guarantee they meet high industry standards.
Recruitment Process
- Book a consultation and they’ll reach out to design a solution that works for you.
- Identify and shortlist candidates with relevant expertise and experience.
- Present pre-screened candidates for your review and interviews.
- Assist in the final selection and onboarding of your chosen professional.
Cost
15-30% of the candidate’s first-year salary. The exact fee structure may vary depending on the specific role and client requirements
6. HireResources
HireResources is a staffing and recruitment agency that specializes in connecting businesses with highly skilled professionals in different industries. They take a consultative approach to recruitment and work closely with clients to understand their business goals and hiring needs to find the best talent fit. They also use advanced technology and data-driven strategies to identify and attract top talent, ensuring a streamlined and efficient recruitment process.
Who You Can Hire
- Digital Marketing Manager
- Content Strategist
- Social Media Manager
- SEO Specialist
- Marketing Analyst
Candidate Quality
Candidates undergo a thorough vetting process to match the high standards that the industry requires.
Recruitment Process
- Get in touch with the company.
- Talent scouting through an extensive network and advanced sourcing techniques to identify potential candidates.
- Qualified candidates are presented to the client and HireResources assists in coordinating interviews.
- HireResources supports clients during the offer and negotiation phase for competitive and fair agreements.
Cost
15-30% of the candidate’s first-year salary. The exact fee can vary based on the complexity and level of the position being filled.
7. LHH
LHH (Lee Hecht Harrison) is a global talent development and transition company that has helped over 15,000+ organizations and individuals handle the complexities of workforce transformation.
They provide temporary, contract, and permanent staffing solutions to help businesses find the right talent. They operate in over 60 countries, providing a broad international perspective and local expertise.
Who You Can Hire
- Marketing Manager
- Digital Marketing Specialist
- Content Strategist
- Social Media Manager
- Brand Manager
Candidate Quality
Ensures their candidates are of high quality through a rigorous and comprehensive vetting process.
Recruitment Process
- Submit your information and a member of our team will connect to discuss and understand your hiring needs.
- LHH uses their extensive network and advanced sourcing techniques to identify potential candidates.
- Qualified candidates are presented to the client and LHH coordinates interviews and assists throughout the selection process.
Cost
Range from 15-30% of the placed candidate’s first-year salary.
8. Artisan Talent
Having been featured on Inc. 500 as one of the fastest growing in the US, Artisan Talent connects creative, marketing, and digital talent with companies. The company has an illustrious clientele including HBO, NFL, and Indeed. Their recruiters have backgrounds in the creative, marketing, and digital fields, providing them with a deep understanding of the roles they are filling.
Who You Can Hire
- Digital Marketing Manager
- Content Strategist
- Social Media Manager
- SEO Specialist
- Marketing Analyst
Candidate Quality
Maintains a vast network of pre-screened, highly qualified candidates and ensures candidates undergo a strict recruitment process to meet industry standards.
Recruitment Process
- Contact the company.
- Consultation to understand the client’s specific requirements.
- Sources both active and passive candidates, conducting rigorous screenings to ensure the best fit.
- Qualified candidates are presented to the client, and Artisan assists in coordinating interviews. Artisan supports clients during the offer and negotiation phase and provides onboarding assistance.
Cost
15 to 30% of the placed candidate’s first-year salary.
9. Talentfoot
Talentfoot is a boutique executive search and recruitment firm that has served over 2,500+ with a 74% retention rate. With a database of over 280,000+ candidates, they focus on providing personalized and strategic talent acquisition services to help companies find exceptional leaders and professionals who can drive business growth and innovation.
Who You Can Hire
- Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs)
- Vice Presidents of Marketing
- Digital Marketing Director
- Sales Executives
- Technology Leaders
Candidate Quality
Top-quality candidates sourced after a strict hiring process.
Recruitment Process
- Contact the company.
- Talentfoot conducts a thorough consultation to create a customized recruitment plan based on the client’s industry, growth goals, and ideal candidate profile.
- Plan execution with science-based assessments and behavioral interviews.
- Final selection, offer negotiation, and onboarding processes.
Cost
15 to 30% of the candidate’s first-year salary for contingency searches.
10. WunderLand Group
WunderLand Group has served over 750 clients out of which 10% are Fortune 500 companies. They established strong relationships with leading companies in the marketing, creative, and digital industries. This network gives them a deep understanding of market needs and trends, providing their clients with access to top-tier talent.
Who You Can Hire
- Graphic Designers
- UX/UI Designers
- Digital Marketing Managers
- Content Strategists
- Web Developers
Candidate Quality
They focus on quality placements rather than high volume. They ensure that every candidate presented is highly qualified and a strong fit for the role and company.
Recruitment Process
- Submit a request form to get in touch with them.
- Detailed consultation to understand your specific needs.
- Talent sourcing, screening, and interview.
- Offer management and onboarding.
Cost
15 to 25% of the employee’s first-year salary.
11. MarketPro
For 26+ years, MarketPro has been connecting businesses with highly skilled marketing professionals. They can fill senior executive roles in 10-12 weeks, which is less than half the time it usually takes in the industry. This focused approach gives them a deep understanding of the marketing landscape and the specific needs of marketing roles.
Who You Can Hire
- Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs)
- Vice Presidents of Marketing
- Marketing Directors
- Digital Marketing Managers
- Content Strategists
Candidate Quality
They maintain a strong network of pre-screened, highly qualified marketing professionals.
Recruitment Process
- Reach out to them.
- Client consultation to understand your requirements.
- Candidate sourcing and a rigorous screening process.
- Interview, candidate selection, and offers.
Cost
15% to 30% of the first-year salary of the placed candidate
12. Onward Search
Onward Search has been providing creative, marketing, and technology talent to companies for over 15 years. Having served over 3,000+ clients, they use advanced recruitment tools and technologies to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of their talent sourcing and matching processes.
Who You Can Hire
- UX/UI Designers
- Web Developers
- Digital Marketing Managers
- Content Strategists
- Social Media Managers
Candidate Quality
Candidates are thoroughly vetted through portfolio reviews, skill assessments, and multiple interviews to ensure they meet the high standards.
Recruitment Process
- Reach out to them.
- In-depth consultation to understand the client’s hiring needs.
- Talent sourcing, screening, and evaluation.
- Interview coordination, offer, and negotiation
Cost
Ranges between 15 to 25% of the employee’s first-year salary.
13. Cella
With 7 offices across the US, Cella is a staffing, consulting, and managed solutions firm that provides creative, marketing, and digital talent to businesses. They offer services designed to help organizations manage their creative operations and achieve their marketing goals. The firm is known for its deep industry expertise and commitment to delivering high-quality talent and customized solutions.
Who You Can Hire
- Graphic Designers
- UX/UI Designers
- Content Strategists
- Digital Marketing Managers
- Copywriters
Candidate Quality
The company has a network of pre-screened, highly qualified professionals. They use in-house assessments along with their thorough screening process.
Recruitment Process
- Connect with them.
- Thorough consultation with the client to understand their specific needs.
- Candidates undergo a strict screening process and qualified candidates are presented to the client with detailed profiles.
- Interview coordination and support during the offer and negotiation phase.
Cost
For detailed information about their pricing, contact Cella directly.
14. KAS Placement
KAS Placement is a recruitment firm with 20+ years of experience in sales and marketing staffing. They have a large database of 3.1+ million top-performing professionals in sales and marketing roles in technology, finance, healthcare, and consumer goods. They are known for their personalized approach to recruitment, ensuring that both clients and candidates find the best fit for their needs and goals.
Who You Can Hire
- Sales Executives
- Account Managers
- Business Development Managers
- Marketing Managers
- Digital Marketing Specialists
Candidate Quality
A large network of pre-screened, highly qualified sales and marketing professionals.
Recruitment Process
- Submit a hiring request.
- Client consultation and KAS Placement identifies potential candidates.
- Candidate presentation and interview coordination.
- KAS Placement supports the client during the offer and negotiation phase.
Cost
Contact the firm to get detailed pricing tailored to your needs.
15. Mondo
Mondo specializes in high-end, niche IT, Tech, and Digital Marketing talent with a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 82%. They are known for their speed and efficiency as they can rapidly deploy talent to meet urgent project needs. Their extensive network and streamlined processes let them quickly identify and present qualified candidates.
Who You Can Hire
- UX/UI Designers
- Digital Marketing Managers
- SEO/SEM Specialists
- Social Media Managers
- eCommerce Specialists
Candidate Quality
Offers a large network of highly skilled and hand-picked marketing professionals.
Recruitment Process
- Contact the agency.
- Client consultation and needs assessment.
- Potential candidates undergo a rigorous screening process.
- After a candidate is selected, Mondo assists with the onboarding process for a smooth transition.
Cost
Custom pricing available on demand.
16. TalentBurst
For 20+ years, TalentBurst has provided high-end contingent workforce solutions, payroll management, and independent contractor compliance. They focus on building long-term relationships with clients through personalized service and consistent delivery of high-quality talent. They take the time to understand each client’s business, culture, and specific staffing needs.
Who You Can Hire
- Digital Marketing Managers
- Content Strategists
- Social Media Managers
- SEO/SEM Specialists
- Marketing Analysts
Candidate Quality
Maintains a strong focus on quality assurance, with rigorous checks and balances in place to ensure that every placement meets the highest standards of excellence.
Recruitment Process
- Get in touch with the firm.
- Discuss your specific marketing needs and goals with a dedicated recruiter from TalentBurst.
- Identify and shortlist candidates.
- Pick the final candidate and onboard them with the help of TalentBurst.
Cost
Contact the agency for custom pricing.
17. TorchLight Hire
With a matching success rate of 97%, TorchLight Hire focuses on long-term success for both clients and candidates. They have been featured on Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest-growing companies in the US. The company finds candidates who not only have the right skills but also fit well with the company culture for better retention rates.
Who You Can Hire
- Marketing Managers
- Digital Marketing Specialists
- Content Strategists
- Social Media Managers
- Brand Managers
Candidate Quality
Emphasizes quality placements to ensure that each candidate presented is a strong fit for the role and the company.
Recruitment Process
- Contact the firm.
- A consultation will be conducted to discuss your needs and the solutions they offer.
- Identify and shortlist candidates with relevant expertise and experience.
- Assist in the final selection and onboarding of the chosen professional, with TorchLight Hire providing ongoing support.
Cost
Contact the agency for pricing details.
What Should You Look For In A Marketing Recruiting Partner?
Here are 8 factors you must consider when hiring a marketing recruitment agency.
I. Specialization in Marketing Roles
Sure, everyone claims to specialize in marketing roles. But what you really want is a partner who is an actual expert. Look for a firm that understands the complexities of different marketing functions. Can they differentiate between a growth marketer and a brand marketer? Do they know the difference between SEO and SEM? These are the details that matter.
II. Proven Track Record
Any recruiter can boast about placement numbers. What you need is proof of quality placements. Ask for case studies detailing specific roles, industries, and challenges overcome. The real test? Check their clients. Are they working with companies you respect in your industry? Have they filled roles similar to the ones you’re looking for?
III. Comprehensive Vetting Process
Resumes are a starting point, not a finish line. A top recruiting firm will have a rigorous process to assess a candidate’s skills, cultural fit, and potential. Look for firms that use behavioral interviewing, skills assessments, or even portfolio reviews. Remember, a bad hire can cost you more than just salary – it impacts morale and productivity.
IV. Industry Connections
A strong network is a recruiter’s secret sauce. But don’t just look for connections; assess the quality of those connections. Are they plugged into the right circles for your industry? Can they access talent that others can’t? A partner with deep industry knowledge can introduce you to passive candidates – high-performers who aren’t actively looking but might be tempted by the right opportunity.
V. Flexibility in Engagement Models
Rigid partnerships can be a hindrance. Look for a recruiter who offers various engagement models, from contingent search to retained search or even project-based hiring. This flexibility ensures you can choose the approach that best aligns with your budget and timeline.
VI. Client & Candidate Satisfaction
A happy customer is the best advertisement. But don’t just take their word for it. Look for quantifiable measures of satisfaction, like Net Promoter Scores or client testimonials. A partner who prioritizes both sides of the equation is more likely to deliver results that exceed your expectations.
VII. Transparency & Communication
Trust is the foundation of any successful partnership. A transparent recruiter keeps you informed, shares insights, and is honest about challenges. Regular communication is key, but it’s equally important that they listen to your needs and provide actionable feedback. A partner who hides information or makes excuses is likely to be a headache.
VIII. Customization & Personalization
Generic strategies rarely yield exceptional results. A top recruiting partner will understand your company culture, hiring challenges, and ideal candidate profile. They should develop a tailored approach for each search, not just recycle the same playbook. Remember, you’re looking for a partner, not just a vendor.
How To Onboard Your New Marketing Hire
Once you’ve successfully hired a new marketing professional, follow these steps for a smooth and effective onboarding process:
A. Prepare Before Their Start Date
Organize their workspace, set up their email and other necessary accounts, and prepare other equipment they will need. Having everything ready on their first day helps them feel welcome and reduces downtime.
B. Introduce Them to the Team
Schedule meetings with key team members and stakeholders during their first week. Create an immersive experience that brings your company culture to life. These introductions help the new hire build relationships and understand their role within the team and the broader organization.
C. Provide a Comprehensive Orientation
Conduct an orientation session to familiarize them with the company’s mission, values, and culture. Include an overview of the marketing department’s goals, ongoing projects, and tools used, so they can quickly get up to speed. Create an immersive experience that brings your company culture to life. Use interactive elements, case studies, or even simulations to make learning engaging.
D. Assign a Mentor or Buddy
A mentor is a career coach, a buddy is a friendly face. Consider offering both. A mentor can provide career guidance, while a buddy can help with day-to-day questions and social integration. The key is to match personalities and goals for maximum impact. Pair new hires with someone who’s been in their shoes or someone with complementary skills.
E. Set Clear Expectations & Goals
Vague goals lead to vague results. Clearly outline performance expectations, KPIs, and career growth opportunities. Create a shared understanding of what success looks like and how it contributes to the bigger picture.
F. Offer Training & Resources
Invest in their development from day one. Provide access to relevant training programs, tools, and resources. But don’t overwhelm them. Customize the training to their role and learning style. Don’t stop at the technical skills. Offer soft skills training, like communication or time management. Remember, it’s about empowering them, not just filling their schedule.
G. Schedule Regular Check-Ins
Check-ins are important but let’s make them meaningful. Instead of just asking how things are going, go deeper. Arrange regular check-ins during their first few months and ask about challenges and opportunities, and what they’re enjoying. Use these check-ins to adjust their workload or provide additional support. Remember, it’s a two-way street.
Conclusion
Hiring for marketing roles can be long and tedious but marketing recruitment agencies can make it much smoother and faster. Carefully evaluate the agency’s capabilities, industry focus, and client satisfaction. After all, in the dynamic marketing world, talent is the ultimate differentiator.
Specializing in high-level marketing hires, Genius offers a unique model that delivers top talent faster and more cost-effectively than traditional agencies. Our focus on efficiency and results makes us the best choice for businesses looking to build world-class marketing teams. Fill out this form now.
FAQs
What is a marketing recruitment agency?
A marketing recruitment agency specializes in connecting businesses with qualified marketing professionals for roles like digital marketers, content creators, and brand managers. They use their industry expertise to match candidates with the right skills and experience to the specific needs of the company.
Why hire a marketing agency?
Hiring a marketing agency provides access to specialized skills, tools, and strategies that can enhance your marketing efforts and drive business growth. Agencies offer expertise in areas like digital marketing, SEO, and content creation, which can save time and deliver better results than in-house efforts alone.
What is the difference between recruiting and recruiting marketing?
Recruiting focuses on finding and hiring the best candidates for open positions within a company. Recruiting marketing involves promoting the employer’s brand and job opportunities to attract top talent, using strategies similar to traditional marketing.
Is recruiting the same as HR?
Recruiting is a part of HR and focuses on sourcing, interviewing, and hiring new employees. HR includes a broader range of functions including employee relations, benefits administration, compliance, and overall workforce management.
