About Us

Whether it's a lateral move across the world, within the same city, to a different practice area or career path, we are committed to finding the best fit for your growth goals.

Our team

At Recrevi Group, our team is our strength. We have collectively more than two decades of experience in this space. Get to know the faces behind Recrevi Group – Matthew, Erika, Francesca, Matt and Emily. At the heart of each of our member’s approach to legal recruitment lies unwavering ethics, a profound sense of humanity, and a passion for fostering meaningful connections.

Learn about their expertise, passion for legal recruitment, and their roles in shaping the success of our candidates and clients.

Matthew Hart

Managing Director

Matthew is the Founder and Managing Director of Recrevi Group. He brings a wealth of experience to his leadership role and is one of the leading legal recruiters in the world.

Matthew has successfully placed hundreds of high-performing lawyers across the globe. His extensive market reach includes Australia, New Zealand, London, New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Cayman Islands, Singapore, Hong Kong, UAE, Dublin, and Tokyo.

Matthew is consistently praised by candidates and clients alike for his authenticity, honesty, and unwavering dedication to the search process.

Matt graduated from the University of Technology, Sydney, with a Juris Doctor. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts (Communication / Journalism) and Bachelor of Sport Studies from Charles Sturt University. After law school, and prior to moving into recruitment, Matt started his career in New York where he worked as a strategy consultant for Repucom (now Nielsen Sports), advising teams, leagues, and brands on their sponsorship strategies. Outside of work, Matthew enjoys cooking, watching & playing sport, and spending quality time with his wife and three kids.

Francesca Psaila

Director

Francesca is a Director at Recrevi Group and specialises in private practice placements. As an experienced legal practitioner with a global perspective, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the legal industry and to the field of legal recruitment.

Having honed her skills during a seven-year career as a practicing lawyer across diverse industries, Francesca is able to understand and empathise with the intricacies of the legal landscape. Her professional journey contributes to her unique and well-rounded perspective, a perspective she now shares with candidates and clients alike.

Francesca integrates her legal expertise with an understanding of the dynamics within the legal job market. Utilising her experience in private practice, in-house legal roles, and recruitment, she is able to navigate the changing needs of lawyers, showcasing a commitment to personal and professional growth throughout her own personal career journey.

Francesca is personable and down to earth. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, writing, exploring new places to eat, staying active through fitness, and spending time with friends. Having moved from Malta to Sydney, she loves the Australian lifestyle and actively participating in the local communities.

Erika Ruig

Associate Director

Erika is a Director at Recrevi Group, bringing over 14 years of experience in the executive search space in Australia. Erika stands as a driving force in the realm of talent acquisition. Her journey has been marked by instrumental contributions, offering invaluable advice and knowledge in high-profile assignments within the legal industry.

Erika has worked across assignments nationally and internationally, and this global perspective enriches her ability to provide high-quality market intelligence.

Erika’s methodology ensures a detailed understanding of each brief she undertakes, allowing her to navigate the complexities of the legal industry with precision. Erika possesses a keen eye for detail that sets her apart in the executive search arena.

Erika is well-respected by her clients for consistently exceeding expectations to ensure their success. Her dedication to achieving outstanding results and building lasting client relationships highlights her significant impact in the executive search landscape.

Matt Thomas

Director

Matt holds a LLB from a top 20 UK law school. He was born in Manchester but raised in the east of England, on the Suffolk coast.

Since leaving University, Matt has spent his professional career in London, working in recruitment for top search firms in the FS and legal sectors.

Matt has a life-long passion for football, whether it be playing, watching or coaching and keeps fit in his spare time. He has always valued social interactions and prides himself on providing an authentic, personalised service for both candidates and clients.

To date, Matt has placed lawyers from NQ through to Partner level in 10 different countries.

Emily Hart

Head of Good Vibes (& Accounts)

Emily is the Head of Good Vibes (and Accounts) at Recrevi Group. Her responsibilities straddle several key areas of the business, including People & Culture, Operations, and Accounts. Prior to joining Recrevi Group, Emily ran her own internationally renowned design firm.

Testimonials

Their genuineness to see you succeed is truly refreshing.

“Matt and Erika are experts in their field. I was very fortunate to go through the recruitment process with their support. Matt has a wealth of experience and understanding of the industry that he applies towards helping you get the role you want. His tips and advice help set you apart from other candidates and ensure you feel prepared to excel. Matt and Erika are a delight to work with, their genuineness to see you succeed is truly refreshing."  

Mid - Level Associate – Energy & Resources – Perth

Francesca provided unparalleled insight, support and guidance.

“Francesca became my trusted advisor when I decided to move from NZ into the Australian market. She provided unparalleled insight, support and guidance every step of the way. Right from the get-go she was someone who really listened, took initiative, addressed any concerns immediately and made sure we were always on the same page. From process to firm culture, mock interviews to honest feedback, Francesca made time for whatever I needed. The more I communicated what mattered to me, the more she tailored the approach and suggestions to help me find the right fit. I never had to follow up because she would be keeping me updated and sharing any relevant opportunities as soon as they came up. She has been genuine, thoughtful, consistent, professional and supportive beyond all expectations, and I felt completely comfortable and assured with her in my corner. Finding the right role is a very personal journey, and I can’t imagine doing this without Francesca and her team - they have simply been outstanding."  

Senior Associate – Real Estate – Sydney

It has been a pleasure working with Matt Thomas and the Recrevi team.

“It has been a pleasure working with Matt Thomas and the Recrevi team. Matt took the time to discuss and understand where I am in my career and what position I am looking for. Matt was available throughout the interview process to discuss my questions and concerns. He also provided guidance on questions to expect in interviews and he kept me updated on the status of any applications. I would highly recommend Matt and the Recrevi team."  

Senior Associate – Banking & Finance – Melbourne

He seriously cared about my career and what was best for it.

“Matt Hart blew me away with his commitment to finding me a top tier role and genuinely dedicating what felt like every moment of his day to helping me. Having never used a recruiter before, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I’d recommend Matt to anyone in the legal industry in a heartbeat. He kept me updated at every point, he was easily contactable at all times, he took the time to understand my goals and direction, and he seriously cared about my career and what was best for it. Matt made me feel like his number one priority, and I couldn’t be more stoked with the role I’ve secured as a result."  

Associate – Litigation – Band 1 International Firm Melbourne

I always felt prioritised, heard and reassured.

“Francesca demonstrated persistency, commitment and resilience. Despite a slow market, Francesca never failed to keep in touch with any updates and to make sure we were on the same page throughout the journey. I always felt prioritised, heard and reassured. Job hunting is a tough journey and Francesca has proven how important and valuable it is to have someone who not only has a strong professional network, but is reliable and genuine."  

Mid - Level Associate – Corporate M&A – Band 1 team Sydney

The communication was seamless and transparent.

“Matt Hart, with his expertise and personal touch, has made all the difference in my job search. From our initial conversion, it was clear that Matt had a nuanced and deep understanding of the legal profession and the specific needs of potential employers. The ability of Matt and his team to pinpoint roles that were a precise fit to my experience and aspirations was truly impressive. The communication was seamless and transparent - Matt promptly addressed my concerns and provided regular updates. Throughout the job search process, Matt offered invaluable advice, from refining my CV to preparing for interviews. Beyond professional support, Matt and his team offered unwavering support and constant encouragement, which was incredibly motivating during my job search. His positive attitude and genuine care turned a potentially stressful process into an enjoyable experience."  

Senior Associate – Corporate M&A – Sydney

Matt T's recruiting style is swift, responsive and caring.

“Matt Thomas is an amazing recruiter! He headhunted me at a time when I really needed to move jobs and was able to secure my move from a premier offshore law firm in England to a tier 1 international law firm in Canada, for a role that perfectly aligned with my experience. He was able to present me so well to employers that he secured an interview for me within a day of our first discussion and I ended up landing a job as a result of that interview. I will describe Matt's recruiting style as swift, responsive and caring. He conducts regular check-ins, provides interview preparation tips and regular feedback throughout the recruiting process. My recruiting process was not conventional as it took about 4 months, but Matt was always available to allay my fears and follow up with the law firm on my behalf to ensure I got the offer. It was a great pleasure working with Matt, and I want to thank him specially for believing in me as the Canadian legal market can be very difficult to break into, and I got an amazing job offer at the end!"  

Mid - Level Associate – Banking & Finance – Canada

Matt is incredibly responsive, generous with his time, approachable and easy to work with.

“Matt's deep understanding of the Australian legal market and what employers are looking for proved to be invaluable throughout the recruitment process. Matt's guidance and direction allowed me to put my best foot forward and was instrumental in me ultimately securing my ideal role. For a highly successful recruiter with a busy schedule, Matt is incredibly responsive, generous with his time, approachable and easy to work with. I would not hesitate to recommend Matt to any fellow Kiwi lawyers looking to make a move across the ditch."  

Mid - Level Associate – Corporate Energy – Melbourne

My Experience with Francesca was nothing short of amazing. From the initial conversation, right up until post-offer stages, the recruitment process was truly seamless thanks to her.

“ I had previous experiences with recruiters who were discouraging of the market and hiring process but as soon as Francesca was involved, I immediately had interviews lined up and an offer within a couple of weeks. Not only is she empathetic and patient, but she also tailors communication for the individual and is extremely responsive. I felt supported the whole way through the process and found the resources she provided to be incredibly valuable. I would recommend Francesca and her team to anyone looking for opportunities across Australia.”

Mid-Level Associate – Real Estate – Sydney

It is rare to find a recruiter that is as involved, authentic and reliable as Matt.

He has demonstrated his dedication to matching me with the right position, and follows up at every point in the process to ensure I am comfortable and well informed. Matt and his team have the connections, insight and ability to deliver fantastic opportunities and results, and I highly recommend him as the first port of call for anyone looking for a step up or change, whether it be domestically or abroad.

Senior Real Estate Associate - Top Tier National Firm - Melbourne

As a Canadian lawyer who had no insight on the international market, Matt guided me through the process to help find the firm best for my career.

"Working with Matt Hart was a positive experience. As a Canadian lawyer who had no insight on the international market, Matt guided me through the application and interview process to help find the firm best for my career. Matt is extremely hands on and made himself available during every part of the process. Matt’s professionalism and approachability makes you feel supported during times of uncertainty and I know I could rely on him for an unbiased opinion. I am very grateful to have worked with Matt and would highly recommend him to any lawyers looking to lateral internationally."

Canadian Finance Associate – Band 1 Leveraged Finance Team - New York

Matt helped me narrow my focus, create a plan and land just the right type of role for me.

"Matt Hart and his team are excellent. I was in my final semester of my LLM at Stanford Law School when I first spoke to Matt. I had several different international moves I was considering at the time and was in talks with recruiters from all over. Drawing on all of his experience and industry insight, Matt helped me narrow my focus, match my skills with the competencies of (and opportunities in) firms in the US, create a plan and land just the right type of role for me at this point in my career."

Mid-Level Projects Associate – Elite International Firm - New York

Matt wasn’t pushy at all, leaving the decision to me and advising me to consider the opportunity as opposed to the remuneration.

“I was headhunted by Matt Thomas and he talked me through the London Funds market, even fitting in our first call on a Sunday. By the Friday I had 4 interviews. After struggling to settle in London, I reapproached Matt and he was really understanding and provided me with further options in Dubai. I got two offers and Matt wasn’t pushy at all, leaving the decision to me and advising me to consider the opportunity as opposed to the remuneration. I have since used Matt when looking to hire within my team and find him incredibly hard-working and easy going.

Investment Funds Senior Associate - Elite US Firm - Dubai

Matt effortlessly adapts, bringing to the table impressive industry insight, providing excellent coaching and offering honest advice.

"Matt Hart is an expert recruiter who makes the stress of an international move melt away. Right from the start, he's devoted to understanding your unique circumstances to place you in your best-matched opportunity. As your own thinking evolves, Matt effortlessly adapts, bringing to the table impressive industry insight, providing excellent coaching and offering honest advice. Genuine, reliable and supportive, Matt never makes you feel that you are just another candidate in the market." 

Mid-Level Leveraged Finance Associate – Elite US Firm - San Francisco

Matt Hart is truly in a league of his own amongst recruiters.

"Matt not only has a strong professional network but he is extremely diligent and thoughtful throughout the process. Before each of my interviews, Matt planned a mock interview where he had prepared questions tailored to my background, designed to anticipate the more challenging questions that might be asked. His insights on how best to answer each such questions was invaluable. Matt not only had a deep understanding of each firm, but crucially, how I might present to them, and gave me insights into my strengths and weaknesses that I was not necessarily aware of. He continually impresses me with his attention to detail and genuine care for the candidate. I would not consider working with anyone else.”

Senior Commercial Litigator – Elite US Firm - London

He understands your goals and diligently opens doors.

"Matt Hart is an exceptional recruitment consultant. From the get-go, Matt was genuine, supportive and proactive in matching me with the best-suited opportunities. He understands your goals and diligently opens doors. In making a significant life change of moving overseas, I always felt I was in the best possible hands, which has proven to be the case, and I highly recommend Matt to anyone looking to make a step-up or change of role in their career."

Senior Commercial Litigator – Top Tier Firm - London

I settled on Amsterdam and Matt found me interviews and prepped me fully, even sorting out flights over and itinerary plans via the client at offer stage.

“When Matt Thomas and I first spoke, I mentioned wanting to explore options in Central Europe. I was really unsure of the reaction I’d get but I felt Matt really listened to me. That same day he provided me with market maps and information for three different locations in Europe which was extremely helpful. I then actually delayed the search for a couple of months for personal reasons which he was really understanding about. I settled on Amsterdam and Matt found me interviews and prepped me fully, even sorting out flights over and itinerary plans via the client at offer stage. Me and my young family love it here and cannot thank Matt enough, we remain in touch and I continue to recommend him.”

Investment Funds Associate - Top Irish firm to elite US firm in Amsterdam

Matt Hart provided valuable insight into the company and what they were looking for in a candidate, making the interview process and preparation substantially easier.

"Matt ensured the process moved along quickly and provided regular updates regarding the progress of my application. He also had great insight into the market, and I would highly recommend Matt to anyone looking for their next role."

Private Equity Fund - Legal Counsel – Sydney 

Matt was efficient, honest, realistic and thorough from the beginning, he provided me with a tailored service.

“I approached Matt Thomas at NQ level, not really knowing what to expect. Matt was efficient, honest, realistic and thorough from the beginning, he provided me with a tailored service as he knew it was my first proper professional search in an unknown market. He provided me with relevant opportunities and detailed interview prep, even sending messages/taking calls across the festive period. I’ve remained in touch with Matt and have since recommended him to friends and peers.”

FS Reg NQ - International firm in Dublin to London Magic Circle Firm

We kept in touch and then I decided to make the move early 2023, the process was seamless even with the time zone differences.

“Matt Thomas first messaged me during the summer of 2022. It wasn’t a good time for me to look personally but, he said he would keep in touch, and I mentioned New Zealand being of interest. As an Irish qualified lawyer, I didn’t know what my chances would look like but he assured me my specialism was transferable. We kept in touch and then I decided to make the move early 2023, the process was seamless even with the time zone differences. I’m now in New Zealand and really enjoying both the work and the lifestyle, thanks Matt!”.

Finance Senior Associate - Elite Firm - New Zealand

Matthew Hart is an incredible recruiter who is genuine, diligent and dedicated to his candidates.

He put in the time and effort to understand my experience and present the most well suited opportunities. Matthew ensured I was always well informed as to the steps in the relevant process and provided me with the opportunity and time to digest and ask questions. He put in the time to complete mock interviews, discuss interview approaches (tailored to the individual firms) and assisted me in understanding how to best frame my strengths and weaknesses. I never felt like I was alone in the process and that reduced the stress of interviewing and making an international move exponentially less. Matthew genuinely cares for his candidates during the process and their success and I would not consider working with anyone else”.

Leveraged Finance Associate – Elite US Firm – New York

Matthew Hart and his team at Recrevi Group were very responsive, knowledgeable and professional, in relation to their recruiting work for me.

“Recrevi Group took time to understand my preferred role and helpfully shared knowledge that made the law firm interview process an enjoyable experience for me. Recrevi Group were prompt with communications from the time of my initial inquiries right through to offer stage, and kept me well apprised of developments with my applications. I do not hesitate in recommending Recrevi Group to legal professionals, in particular lawyers qualified in New Zealand or Australia, who are considering their next career move whether it be a domestic or international move.”

Corporate M&A Associate – Top Tier Firm - Dublin

I have landed a dream job thanks to Francesca contacting me and guiding me through the process from start to finish.

“I have nothing but great things to say about my experience working with Francesca. Francesca was reliable, insightful and respectful. I have landed a dream job thanks to Francesca contacting me and guiding me through the process from start to finish. Her communication was top tier and I’m grateful to have had such an incredible recruiter to work with on my first move in my career.”

Mid-Level Associate – Banking and Finance – Sydney

Matthew Hart is a bona fide superstar & the only recruiter I would use for a lateral move of any kind.

“His client service is without peer in the industry, and he possesses the creativity and connections to achieve a perfect fit for a candidate.

He is a joy to work with and the only recruiter I have ever personally recommended."  

Mid-Level Associate – Leveraged Finance – New York

Matt Hart was committed to ensuring the right fit for me personally without pushing roles which did not align with me.

“Matt Hart was instrumental in landing me my ideal role in Sydney. He took the time to understand my motivations and career aspirations from the outset, and was committed to ensuring the right fit for me personally without pushing roles which did not align with me. Matt has an in depth knowledge of, and extensive connections within, the Australian market, which means you will know as soon as roles in your practice area become live. In the lead up to the interview process, Matt was very helpful, providing useful interview prep, and keeping in regular communication throughout. This is a big point of difference from other recruiters! On a personal level, Matt is an excellent and friendly communicator, and great for a yarn. I’d recommend him and Recrevi to any lawyer looking for a country / career change. Thanks Matt!"  

Mid-Level Associate – Commercial Technology – Sydney

I would recommend Matt to anyone wanting to make the change and wants to work with someone who cares. 

“Matt Hart went out of his way to help me out! Prior to my interview, he stepped me through the process, sent me possible questions I could be asked and discussed how I should approach each question, which was extremely practical and useful as the process would have been much more daunting otherwise.  His helpfulness in the process with having in-depth knowledge of the firms he was dealing with gave me insight I could not have had myself. He would follow up with matters in a timely fashion and was generally just great to deal with. He also made sure I felt comfortable with the job, and any concerns I had were dealt with in a very genuine way. I would recommend him to anyone wanting to make the change and who wants to work with someone who cares."  

Senior Associate – Commercial Litigation – Sydney

He takes the time to understand what you are looking for and tailors his advice accordingly.

“Matt has an exceptional professional network and is very efficient. What sets him apart from the crowd is his genuine interest in the candidate and the effort he goes to in finding a firm with the right fit. He takes the time to understand what you are looking for and tailors his advice accordingly. He also delivers fantastic interview prep and makes sure you can go into an interview feeling confident. I can't recommend Matt highly enough."  

Senior Associate – Environment and Planning – Sydney

Matt is familiar with market trends in each jurisdiction we considered and had a direct line to the top firms and hiring partners.

“It was a real pleasure to work with Matt Hart on my latest international move. He genuinely cared about finding the right "fit" for my personal circumstances, both in terms of destination and firm, and was always responsive and happy to chat through my thinking. Matt is familiar with market trends in each jurisdiction we considered and had a direct line to the top firms and hiring partners, so we weren't limited to only advertised roles. I wouldn't recommend anyone else for your next move."  

Senior Associate – Banking and Finance – Cayman

I highly recommend Matt Hart who is - quite simply put - a master recruiter. 

“Working with Matt Hart was such a positive experience. What really impressed me about Matt is that, unlike other recruiters, he never makes you feel like just another candidate in the market. Matt understood my specific needs and tailored his approach to place me into the best opportunities for me. Matt is dedicated to say the least: he consistently demonstrates a high degree of professionalism, exceptional industry knowledge, and gives honest advice - all with your best interests at heart. Matt is reliable and consistently in your corner, so I felt thoroughly supported throughout what otherwise would have felt like an overwhelming process. I highly recommend Matt Hart who is - quite simply put - a master recruiter."  

Mid - Level Associate – Commercial Litigation – Sydney

It was absolutely evident from our first conversation that Matt Hart was an expert at what he does with fantastic industry connections and legal market knowledge.

“Matt Hart was an absolute pleasure to work with. He made finding a job and relocating overseas such an easy and stress-free process. Matt took the time to get to know me and my motivations and to ensure I was getting what I wanted out of the process. Matt prepared me for my interviews with tailored and specific advice on questions and answers. It was absolutely evident from our first conversation that he was an expert at what he does with fantastic industry connections and legal market knowledge. If I use a recruiter again it will be Matt Hart."  

Associate – Construction Disputes – Sydney

Matt has deep industry connections that help to give you a competitive advantage.

“Matt is an exceptional recruiter and consummate professional. Takes a genuine interest in your career and works tirelessly to ensure you find the right role for your circumstances. There is never any query too small or too arduous – Matt will always respond (remarkably promptly) and help to address any questions or put you at ease if you are stressed about any aspect of the process. Matt has deep industry connections that help to give you a competitive advantage throughout the recruitment process including insight into firm's recruitment objectives, specific interviewers and the market as a whole. You feel as though you are dealing with the leading private practice recruiter in the Australian market and that reputation is well-earned. If you are considering contacting Matt to assist with a search for your next role do not hesitate – it will be the best decision you make. It should also be mentioned that Matt has an incredible team that will provide invaluable support and resources throughout your search (particularly Erika who works tenaciously to ensure every lead is followed up and any process that you are involved in goes smoothly)."  

Senior Associate – Restructuring Elite International Firm – Sydney

Matt Hart and the team at Recrevi are truly market leaders.

“Matt Hart and the team at Recrevi are truly market leaders. Matt is a recruiter with a deep understanding of the market and of the firms and professionals who operate throughout it. This deep understanding, coupled with Matt’s energy and commitment to securing the best possible outcome at every turn was impressive and made the whole process straightforward. Matt’s approach to the interview process, helping me identify and understand my own strengths and weaknesses really put me at ease, allowing me to focus on being the best possible candidate. I couldn’t recommend Matt more highly."  

Mid-Level Associate – Restructuring Elite International Firm – Sydney

Matt is very well connected in the local and international legal markets

“I have recently had an extremely positive experience working with Matt to secure an international role from New Zealand. From the initial point of contact, Matt responded to queries promptly, made himself available to speak regularly, and provided continuous updates on the progress of applications in a timely manner - providing comfort during a period of time which could otherwise have been very stressful. It is evident that Matt is very well connected in the local and international legal markets and was able to provide genuine advice and guidance during the process of finding the firm that would be the best fit for me. I found Matt to be extremely professional and personable in all his dealings and would most definitely recommend his services to anyone else seeking to make a move in future."  

Senior Associate – Project Finance Elite International Firm – London

He set me up with some great opportunities and found me a great role/firm.

“Matt T was impressive throughout the process, I was impressed by his updates and candour. He set me up with some great opportunities and found me a great role/firm. I would highly recommend him and Recrevi Group and look forward to keeping in touch and referring him to friends and peers. Thanks again Matt!"  

Senior Associate – M&A Corporate Team – Perth

Why Recrevi?

‘Recrevi’ means to grow again. To find the next growth point in your career or business with the right people, advice and support to get you there.

Recrevi Group was born with a clear purpose – to be a distinctive space for legal professionals exploring new paths and organisations seeking exceptional talent. We believe in more than just matching skills; our intention is to nurture personal and professional growth moves.

For legal professionals, Recrevi Group opens doors to new career paths that resonate with your growth goals and aspirations. Our commitment is to connect you with opportunities that go beyond placements, creating avenues for meaningful development in your life and career.

For organisations seeking top-tier legal talent, Recrevi Group is your strategic partner that understands it's about finding professionals who align with your values and contribute to your organisational growth. Our dedication to clear communication and genuine relationships ensures that we not only meet but exceed your expectations in talent acquisition.

Our guiding principles

— Communication
— Connection
— Evolution

Our story is one of continual evolution, guided by principles of straightforward and effective communication. We believe in more than just matching skills; our intention is to nurture personal and professional growth. At Recrevi Group, we prioritise building genuine relationships with both our candidates and clients. We understand that successful partnerships are built on trust, transparency, and a shared commitment to growth in personal lives and careers.

Mission statement

Our mission is to empower lawyers to lead careers that align seamlessly with their individuality and life goals. We are driven by the desire to connect you with opportunities that align with your aspirations and growth, both professionally and personally.