CASE STUDY: Reigniting a Career in Reward

Background:

After four years in a junior-level Reward role at a large organisation, “James” felt stuck. Despite building up a strong foundation of experience on incentive design including annual bonus schemes, LTIPs and STIPs and remuneration benchmarking, opportunities for internal progression were non-existent. Promotions seemed reserved for external hires, and his input was increasingly overlooked. The role had become repetitive, and with little sign of change, James began considering a move – but wasn’t sure how to take that next step up.

The Turning Point:

A friend in the industry suggested speaking to Harvey Sutton. From the very first conversation, the difference was clear. Instead of simply reviewing his CV and firing off generic job suggestions, the team at Harvey Sutton took time to understand James’ actual experience — not just his job title — and what he really wanted from his next role.

They discussed the parts of the job he enjoyed most, the skills he felt underused and what long-term career growth looked like for him. That insight helped identify the type of opportunity that would genuinely suit him – rather than just being “the next job”.

 

Opening New Doors:

Within days, Harvey Sutton had introduced James to a shortlist of exciting companies — none of which had advertised the roles. These were carefully selected, not only for their culture and responsibilities, but because they had room to grow and develop talent internally.

Interviews were arranged quickly, and James was fully supported at every step, with prep sessions, honest feedback and insight into what each employer was really looking for.

The Harvey Sutton Advantage:

While Harvey Sutton don’t claim to be technical experts in Reward, what sets them apart is access. With over 30 years of experience building relationships with decision-makers, they’re able to get the right CVs in front of the right people — even when a candidate might otherwise be overlooked. In James’ case, he’d previously applied directly to one of the firms without success — but when Harvey Sutton approached the right contact on his behalf, everything changed.

The Outcome:

James is now thriving in a new Reward role at a firm that values career development. From day one, he was enrolled in a structured progression plan and has already taken on project responsibilities he’d never been trusted with before. He’s working with senior stakeholders, learning every day, and — most importantly — feels like his career is moving again.

In James’ Words:

“What stood out was how Harvey Sutton really ‘got’ what I wanted — even more than I did. They didn’t just tick boxes. They found the right opportunity, with the right people, and made it happen. I’m finally excited about where I’m going.”