Company Profile

Our expertise spans manufacturing, energy, defence & aerospace, automotive, construction, transport infrastructure, chemicals, and maritime/shipping.

The Cleeve Partnership works with defence primes, Tier 1-3 suppliers, and emerging defence technology businesses to secure the leadership capability required to deliver complex, mission-critical programmes.
With four decades specialising exclusively in senior-level appointments, we understand the unique demands of defence hiring: security clearance requirements, the balance between commercial acumen and programme delivery expertise, and the strategic importance of getting senior appointments right first time. Our clients cannot afford prolonged vacancies or failed hires when programme timelines, capability gaps, or national security considerations are at stake.

We recruit across the defence value chain – from traditional platforms and systems integration through to emerging capabilities in autonomous systems, cyber defence, and space. Whether permanent leadership for transformation programmes or tactical interim appointments to stabilise critical projects, we deliver executives who combine technical credibility with commercial and operational judgment.

Our approach is discreet, direct, and informed by deep sector knowledge built over decades. We know the defence landscape, the talent pools, and how to identify leaders who can navigate both MOD procurement complexity and the commercial realities of modern defence business.