About Us
A Legacy of Expertise and Trust
Delivering senior talent and strategic insight across Legal, IP, Compliance, and Privacy for organisations worldwide.
Our Story
We are Adamsons and We Go Beyond.
Founded in 1985 by Stuart Adamson, Adamsons was built on a clear and enduring vision: to elevate executive search through expertise, integrity and lasting relationships. Ours is a story of generations, of expertise passed down, relationships nurtured, and trust earned over four decades.
We fuel business transformation by connecting exceptional people with the organisations that shape our world, through a uniquely human, fair and consultative approach grounded in deep sector expertise and global perspective. We are custodians of growth — for the individuals we champion and the organisations we serve.
We treat our clients, partners and colleagues like family. Every conversation is a catalyst. Every placement is a transformation. Because for us, this is personal because the right fit changes everything.
Forging leaders who inspire. Teams that endure. Industries that thrive.
We are Adamsons. And we go beyond.
Our History
1985
Stuart Adamson founds the business in Leeds, establishing a specialist executive search firm focused on delivering high-quality talent solutions.
2003
The firm establishes its London office, cementing its position as a global player in executive search and advisory services with a key presence in the UK capital.
2006
The firm broadens its IP service portfolio, expanding coverage to include legal appointments, reflecting the growing demand for legal professionals at the executive level.
2014
Christopher Adamson takes on leadership of the business, guiding it through significant growth and solidifying its position as a leader in executive search.
2016
Milli Bouri establishes the firm's M&A Advisory practice, diversifying the firm’s service offerings and expanding its expertise in private practice growth strategy.
2017
The firm hosts its inaugural Munich IP Forum, bringing together leading professionals and thought leaders. The event continues annually.
2018
Julian Adamson expands the firm's reach by opening the Munich office, strengthening the firm's international presence and enhancing its ability to serve clients across Europe.
2023
The firm establishes a dedicated UPC & IP Litigation practice to address the evolving landscape of European intellectual property law, responding to the increasing demand for expert guidance in the Unified Patent Court and IP litigation arena.
2024
Julian Adamson is appointed Managing Partner of the firm, marking a new chapter in leadership and a continued commitment to innovation and client success.