The global talent acquisition market is evolving at a rapid pace, and now, a new player backed by renowned entrepreneur Steven Bartlett is making a major move. Chapter 2, a UK-based talent solutions provider, has announced its expansion into the US, a market projected to nearly double in value for recruitment process outsourcing (RPO) over the next few years.
This isn’t just another agency opening an office. The move by Chapter 2 highlights a broader trend: the rise of what the company calls a “next-gen RPO”. This model is designed to tackle the speed and scale challenges faced by businesses today by embedding recruiters directly into high-growth companies.
Leo Harrison, founder and CEO of Chapter 2, explains that the decision was driven by “surging demand in the US.” He believes the company’s track record as a trusted partner to brands like Publicis Groupe, Grammarly, and Bumble has positioned it for success on American soil.
A New Model for a New Era of Work
Traditional recruitment models are often criticised for being slow, expensive, or lacking a deep understanding of a company’s culture. Chapter 2’s approach aims to solve this by combining the agility of an agency with the strategic insight of an in-house team. This is a crucial distinction for HR leaders, who are constantly balancing the need for speed with the desire to hire for cultural fit.
The company’s model rests on three core pillars:
- Embedded Recruiters: Experienced talent partners work directly within a client’s business.
- Data Insights: The use of proprietary technology to create evidence-based hiring strategies.
- Employer Branding: Strategic advisory and expertise to build a strong employer brand.
Brad Rose, the newly appointed co-founder of Chapter 2 US, says the model is built to deliver “immediate impact, matching the urgency and scale of the US market.” For many leaders, this promise of faster hiring, stronger pipelines, and better candidates is a significant draw.
The Steven Bartlett Factor
Steven Bartlett’s investment and public support for Chapter 2 add a powerful layer of credibility. The host of “The Diary of a CEO” podcast, which is most popular in the US, has a significant platform and a reputation for identifying disruptive businesses. Bartlett’s quote in the press release—that the company has seen “80% YoY growth” since his investment—is a strong indicator of its performance and potential.
His involvement signals that recruitment and talent acquisition are no longer just an HR function, but a key strategic priority for business growth. For HR professionals, this elevated profile could be a welcome development, encouraging more investment in modern, effective talent solutions.
This expansion by Chapter 2 is a strong signal that the RPO market is maturing. It’s moving away from transactional placements and towards more embedded, strategic partnerships. For HR and business leaders, this could mean better access to tailored, data-driven solutions that truly align with their business goals.
The question for HR professionals now is whether their current recruitment strategy is fit for this new era.