Understand before searching
We learn the commercial context, team dynamics and leadership needs before we begin.
About Talent HQ
Recruitment that treats hiring as a human decision, not a transaction.
Founded in Melbourne, Talent HQ exists to bring clarity, care and commercial intelligence to the search process.
Why we started
We saw a market that had become faster, but not necessarily better.
Employers were receiving more applications while struggling to identify the right people. Candidates were being contacted about roles with little connection to their experience or ambitions.
Talent HQ was created to offer a more considered alternative—one built around direct communication, genuine understanding and long-term fit.
“The strongest recruitment partnerships continue beyond a single placement.”
Our values
We bring a measured, relationship-led approach to every appointment.
Treat people with respect
Honest communication, thoughtful feedback and clear expectations matter at every stage.
Quality over volume
We focus on curated introductions rather than sending a broad list to create activity.
Build relationships that last
Our best work creates trust that goes beyond a single hire or search.
The founders
Two practitioners with deep recruitment experience and a shared point of view.
Allen Smith
Co-Founder and Managing Director
Allen leads client partnerships, search strategy and executive appointments with a commercial, no-nonsense lens.
Tommy Porting
Co-Founder and Director, Talent & Delivery
Tommy oversees candidate experience, delivery and specialist recruitment across growth-stage teams.
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