Competitive Salary
Hammersmith West London
Established in 1989 - Aardvark Swift has since evolved to become Europe's leading specialist recruitment agency for the games, mobile entertainment and toy industries.
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Within just a couple of months of graduating from Huddersfield University I found myself in an awkward situation. The company I had just started working for was forced to make all its staff redundant, leaving me with no job and not a great deal of money, or time, to get back on my feet. Luckily with help from Hollie at Aardvark Swift, I was able to make the best of a bad situation.
I spoke to Hollie almost every day, keeping her informed with updates on my situation. I would send regular updates for my CV, I created and maintained an online portfolio, and within a week she had set me up with two interviews, followed shortly with two more, at the companies of my choice. The advice and guidance I received was vital for the decisions I made and the interviews I attended. In the end all 4 companies made me offers and I was able to pick the one that suited me best, both geographically and financially.
The team at Aardvark Swift are there to help you get your ideal job, allowing you to focus on making it happen in the interviews and through preparation. They say there's no such thing as a free lunch, but Aardvark Swift come pretty close.
Peter, Programmer
Aardvark Swift is a professional and dedicated recruitment agency with a passion for what they do. In my particular case, Louise Devine has been fantastic! Every step of the way she has encouraged and supported me and given me valuable interviewing tips which paid off and secured me a job working at Disney. I can’t thank her enough and would never have a problem recommending her or any of the team at Aardvark Swift.
Karolina, Approval Process Associate - Toys
Aardvark Swift Recruitment was the first and only games recruitment agency I used. They were extremely helpful and tried really hard to find me the type of job I was looking for. Aardvark has a large array of contacts within the games industry; including the majority of top games companies. Aswift really hustle for you and will source you as many companies as they can. From the first moment I contacted Aardvark they took a small period of time to obtain interviews. I graduated from university on 5th July 2006, by the 12th July Aardvark got me my first and only interview with Rockstar and by 7th August I was working in the games industry. The games industry is a competitive environment to obtain employment; everyone knows that. Therefore sometimes it’s not what you know it’s who you know!
Lawrence, Programmer
"After graduating from university I spent a number of months using various agencies looking for work in the gaming industry without success. Then I found Aardvark Swift. Within a week Lisa got me on my first job interview, and with two more I was happily working. Definitely an agency that know it's stuff."
Ben, Junior Programmer
“After leaving University and looking for my first job in the games industry, Aardvark did everything they possibly could to help me find a position that suited me. They were very friendly and supportive, guiding me through the process from the interview to moving and signing the contract. I would recommend anyone looking for a job in the industry, whether just starting out or already established, to use Aardvark.”
Luke, Graduate Programmer
Aardvark Swift were extremely helpful in finding me my first job in the videogames industry, an industry that is usually considered difficult to get in to. From providing tips on my covering letter to offering help with interview techniques they made the application process as straightforward as possible and continued to be supportive even after I had received my job offer. With their helpful, courteous and knowledgeable consultants I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone who is looking for a job in the videogames industry.
David, Scriptwriter/Researcher
“During my time looking for work I spoke to several agencies but none of them were very helpful and they certainly didn’t seem to have as good an understanding of the game industry as yourself or Aardvark Swift in general.
As a representative for the company you were fantastic and it was great dealing with you.”
Ben, Junior Programmer
Lisa Corbett of Aardvark Swift found me a superb job working as a contractor for one of the top 5 mobile games developers in the world, and has been very supportive in checking on my progress when my original contract was ending, and i am now a full employee.
Roger, Assistant Content Developer
I was really impressed with Aardvark Swift as an agency. What struck me most about the company was how professional they were in dealing with my needs. I had signed onto other agencies’ and had been looking for a job in the industry myself, but within days of joining Aardvark, I had a friendly call from Lisa who managed to arrange interviews with several companies shortly thereafter. I was impressed with the way that Aardvark listened to my needs and the advice they gave me to help look for the right job for me. I was also impressed with the way that they gave me feedback on interviews and tests that I took at other companies and how they would always call to ask how an interview went on the day I had one organised. I think I got a job after about 3 weeks of joining Aardvark and have been here ever since. Aardvark have also been really impressive with their follow-up service to me landing the job. Lisa kept in touch with me whilst at work to see how things were progressing, and if ever I had a problem, she gave me impartial advice which I really appreciated.
In short, if you are looking to get into the industry as a graduate, I would highly recommend Aardvark Swift, I think they are a great outfit and they can definitely help you
Anil, Junior Programmer
I signed up with Aardvark's candidate services as soon as I left university and, while it took a few months, they found me an ideal position. The service is friendly and professional and I am sure that if I find myself needing the services of such an agency again I will look to Aardvark first.
Alex, Content Developer
Lisa was very helpful and encouraging through out the interview process. The information that was made available helped me be more prepared for the interviews. Thank you Lisa for your help and support
William, Server Game Integration Engineer
Having recently graduated, Aardvark Swift made the task of finding a job very easy. They helped find jobs suitable to me, as well as organising interviews and offering advice. Communication with them was top notch and I recommend them to anybody looking for a job in the games industry.
Ben, Junior Programmer
Aardvark Swift’s service is excellent. I especially enjoyed how friendly and personal they where while still being professional. They helped me to construct the perfect CV and quickly identified a list of possible employers for my consideration. They got me interviews so soon after my initial enquiries and even before I graduated.
With their help I found my ideal job. I have no hesitation in recommending Aardvark Swift to others and would most definitely use them again.
Peter, Logic Team Programmer
Aardvark Swift was recommended to me by a good friend and former colleague, who had good experiences in the past with them, and when looking to advance my career, were one of the many companies I called. Lisa was very helpful, and offered me roles based on a good knowledge of the industry and an excellent understanding of the skills gained from my previous roles listed on my CV, rather than the all too common experience of being cold called by headhunters who have failed to grasp the basic summary of skills listed in my resume. I was placed very quickly with an industry leading company where my skills and experience were utilised effectively and given opportunity for growth.
Ben, Content Development Manager
In late 2005 after finishing working on an MSc in Computer Games Technology, I was given a link to the Aardvark Swift website from a friend who's also in the process of developing demo games to send off to games companies, I initially applied for every single job on their programming position list, a short while later Lisa rang my mobile for a brief chat about my CV and what I was looking for in a position. A few things stick out in my mind from that conversation, the main one being that Lisa thought I should change round my CV a little and update my details, this seemed like a chore at the time but now I think it was a very wise piece of advice.
The next day I started to receive emails from Lisa regarding positions that matched my skill set, in reply to each email I simply forwarded my updated CV and asked Lisa to organise an interview if possible, little over a week later I was phoned by Lisa with a date for my first Interview with a games development company Travellers Tails, within commuting distance from where I was living. Lisa forwarded all the relevant information on the company including the company website, the person I would be interviewed by and a map of the local area showing exactly where the place was. The interview went very well although it was clear I had some further work to do on my demos as a couple refused to work at the time, I called Lisa pretty much as soon as I had left the building explaining how it had gone. A few hours later Lisa called me back with some feedback from the interview, unfortunately I hadn't got the job but also with constructive advice regarding my demos, I found this useful knowing that the advice had come from someone in the games development industry and so took it on board instantly.
Over the next couple of weeks I worked hard building up my demos and making sure that they would work for the next interview, Lisa again phoned with the news of securing me not one but two interviews for the following week on the Monday and Tuesday, these were with Free Radical Designs and Creative Industries both were not within commuting distance but Lisa again advised that they could help with any relocation that might happen. With my updated demos in hand and a lot of travelling to do, I prepared for the interviews by reading the websites of each company and playing a couple of their games.
Lisa forwarded me some advice on interview techniques that came in very handy - This time it paid off on the Monday afternoon I was offered a position as a programmer at Free Radical Designs, the company wrote me a job offer letter there and then to take away with me. After phoning Lisa to tell her the good news we agreed that I should attend the interview on Tuesday even if it was just for curtsey and practice but you never know... Again I met with some very down to earth people at creative industries who gave me a lot of advice regarding getting into and staying in the industry and how I could improve my skills.
Four weeks later I started working for Free Radical Designs, Lisa helped me find rented accommodation in the area and offered support during the relocation, the company also helped a lot and now I feel comfortable that I'm at the start of a long career in the games industry thanks to Lisa and the Aardvark Swift team not to mention Free Radical Design.
John, Graduate Programmer
I have worked with Aardvark over the years both as an employer looking for producers and for my own job searches and found Colin to be very professional at all times. Colin has always taken the time to understand what I'm looking for and directed me to appropriate positions, he has been very responsive to my needs and has a good knowledge of the games sector for management positions.... highly recommended!'
Judi - Head of Product Development
I have wanted to get into the games industry for many years. Working in the music industry I believed that the transition between the two industries may be difficult. However, Michael at Aardvark Swift managed this transition from start to finish with the utmost professionalism and really delivered the results that I had hoped for.
Aardvark Swift’s experienced advice and good communication allowed my transition between the two industries to be smooth and furthermore, a pleasure! I would recommend them to anyone wanting to get into games at all levels.
Gary, Online Marketing Executive
Having worked with Ian, Michael and the rest of the Aardvark team over a number of years I have always enjoyed my experiences with them. Courteous, helpful and always available, I would have no hesitation in recommending them as one of the leading recruitment agencies in the interactive entertainment industry.
Simon, PR Manager
"Aardvark Swift provided me with very fast answers, excellent personal service and support both before and after the recruitment process. I would personally recommend them to anyone looking for work within the videogames industry."
Roxana, PR/Events Manager
Michael played a key role in my placement with a leading entertainment publisher. He was able to identify a role that was perfectly suited to my career goals and within days I was placed at the company. Michael has provided great advice and support and I highly recommend his services to anyone looking to get ahead in their career.” September 21, 2006
Top qualities: Great Results, Expert, High Integrity
Tim, Product Manager
“Mick is an extremely helpful, informative, and friendly recruitment consultant at Aardvark Swift who was responsible for helping me get my current job as Website Manager at Creative Assembly. I thoroughly recommend him, and look forwards to keeping in touch with him in the future.” September 21, 2006
Mark, Website Manager
"This is my first time working with Aardvark Swift and they did a great job. Politeness, availability, kindness and professionalism: 4 words to resume their job. I really recommend them."
Mirko, European Product Mgr
I always had the feeling that I was very well looked after. We had frequent contact over the last months and Lindsay Dolman never missed an opportunity to keep me updated on what is happening on the market - she kept me well informed. I would always recommend Aardvark Swift as a very reliable job agency.
Sebastian, QA Project Manager
Aardvark Swift is by far the best agency to work with. Communication is great, people are pleasant and helpful, and their service is efficient. I would highly recommend this agency to anyone searching for a job in the videogames industry.
Karen, QA Project Lead
I have used Aardvark Swift to find a new job in the Game industry and Lindsay Dolman has been very helpful in this case. She has offered me very good job vacancies and she has always been a delight to work with.
Mirko, QA Project Lead
Being a graduate who has always wanted to work in games, you soon learn to appreciate just how hard it is to secure a job in this industry. Competition is fierce, 'entry' level positions are scarce and it feels like there is no one that can help. This was my impression of the games industry until i chanced upon Aardvark Swift. Having uploaded my CV and registered interest with a few positions, I was contacted almost immediately. Lindsay quickly arranged for me to have an interview, and she has been a true help, guiding me through each step of the process....if I needed help with something I felt I could go straight to her and she was always forthright with her replies. Many thanks go out to her and the rest of the team for being dedicated, professional and helpful.
Mathew, Quality Assurance Tester
"The quality of the positions I have been put forward for have been A+. With endless Patience, Advice, and general communication from Lindsay making the job finding process a pleasure rather than a chore. I fully appreciate the professionalism and speed with which Lindsay and Aardvark Swift have helped me to find a fantastic position."
Ron, QA Engineer
As a relatively newcomer in the games industry, I have found Aardvark Swift and Lindsay Dolman in particular very helpful, supportive and professional. Aardvark Swift was able to match my skills with the perfect position. Since then, Lindsay has kept in touch showing genuine interest. Mine has been a very agreeable and smooth experience and I would recommend Aardvark Swift to anyone wishing to work in the games industry.
Frederique, Localisation Project Manager
I have been a candidate of Ian Goodall for a little over a year now and have found him to be both very professional and very helpful to my career, in fact the first job that he put me forward for I got and that is the job that I am still doing and still loving. Throughout the whole of the interview process I was kept up to date with the progress of my application, I was also given feed back as soon as I believe Ian got it, all in all I found the “getting a job in the games industry” experience, quite an easy one to bare.
Chris, Trade Marketing Executive
Aardvark Swift have an excellent customer support ethic, whether you are the candidate or the client. It's refreshing as a candidate to receive unbiased career advise when seeking an employment opportunity
Harvey, Marketing Manager
Ian Goodall and Aardvark Swift have recently facilitated my move into a business development position. I was very impressed by the diligence, attention to detail and support given throughout the process.
My long-term relationship with Ian has been carefully and consciously developed by Ian over the last seven months after I fist approached him for advice. Despite having gaming industry experience, and a relatively strong CV, my skill set is really only applicable to a small number of roles within the industry. Ian took the time to discuss my options, to offer advice and encouragement on how to develop my CV and skill-set in the short to medium term and to only offer me positions that were directly relevant. At no time did he push inappropriate positions onto me in search of a sale and at no point did he make me feel as if I were wasting his time. It was a professional, long-term and considered approach to work and reflects very well on Aardvark and Ian personally.
Ian's Assistant Lindsay also handled the administration around my move competently and with patience. In Ian's absence, her correspondences were short, direct and to the point. Her manner on the phone was also a great reflection on the company.
It is usually the case that people write to a company with a complaint. I am happy to buck this trend and thank Ian and Lindsay for really first class service.
John, Business Development Executive
‘I’ve been fortunate enough to use Aardvark for my previous two jobs in the industry. Working with Ian has been a pleasure as it’s nice to work with an employment agency that doesn’t talk down to you, treat you like a child or speak in a grating voice. I have found him to be honest, eager to help me find work and most importantly, available. As a result of Ian and Aardvark’s assistance I now find myself in a fantastic job in an industry I love!’
Richard, Marketing Executive
"Aardvark Swift have an amazing ability of placing the right people at the right company with an extremely professional approach!"
Neena, European PR Manager
“Ian offered me sound advice at every step of my application allowing me to get my foot in the door of the games industry. Using his years of experience he was quick to identify my abilities and throughout the interview process endeavoured to advise me how I could amplify my strengths within the job interviews - which ultimately enabled me to clearly stand out from the other applicants”
Steven, Marketing Executive
In finding a job in the UK while I was living in The Netherlands, Aardvark swift became a tremendous asset. I trusted them enough to let them do all the job hunting for me so I only had to worry about the interviews. Even after I landed at the perfect job they helped with relocating and kept in touch to make sure everyone was happy. They care and that makes all the difference.
Aardvark swift definitely gets my stamp of approval!
Ronald, Programmer
“Having recently graduated from University, searching for employment within the games industry seemed a daunting task. It quickly became apparent that the graduate support structure provided by Aardvark would be the perfect starting point. The level of assistance offered during the recruitment process was ideal, with my CV only being posted where I requested. All in all, I would have no hesitation in recommending Aardvark Swift to anyone, especially University graduates.”
Simon, Level Designer
A few days after my subscrition was placed on their website, Lindsay from Aardvark basically found me a job. She promptly passed my CV and all of the questions I had to Rockstar making the communication between the company and myself swift and clear. She answered some of the questions I had herself too, treating me like a person, not like a mere e-mail address. So basically, after two months I started working for Rockstar here in the UK. Aardvark has played a crucial role in this story. I recommend Aardvark Swift to all those that are looking for a job in the field of videogaming.
Michele, Localization Tester
Simon is a very competent recruiter offers some very good advice through the entire process of getting a job. He pointed me towards my job at Codemasters and subsequently helped us employ a highly skilled candidate for my team. Based on this experience I would recommend Simon to anyone looking for jobs or employing.
Ivan, Lead Effects Artist
I first heard about Aardvark Swift in an email. I was half way through my last year of university and thought, “It can't hurt to give them a try”. So I applied to the website, uploaded my CV and waited. Very soon I heard from Lisa who gave me some good advice on how to improve my CV and tailor it towards the games industry. As far as finding job opportunities go, Aardvark Swift really came up with the numbers. I would often receive emails from Lisa telling me about a few more roles that she thought I would be interested in. I have now graduated and already I have a better job than I could have wished for. If you're looking for someone to help you get into the games industry as soon as possible, you should talk to Aardvark Swift!
James, University of Manchester 2007, Developer Support Engineer
Michael Hobson at Aardvark Swift helped me find my dream job as a European Brand Manager. Throughout the recruitment process (from when I initially started looking to even after I'd signed a contract) Michael was professional and courteous as well as immediately available to answer any questions I had. He took the time to find out exactly the reasons I was looking to move and what sort of company I wanted to move to and did not waste any time in coming up with suitable employers. If in the future I ever need to find a new job Michael and Aardvark Swift will be the first person and company I call.
Suddy, European Brand Manager
From the outset, Aardvark Swift acted like no ordinary recruitment agency. Everyone I dealt with treated me with respect and were more than happy to help in anyway possible, which differs from the approach most agencies take in treating you as "just another number".
Michael was excellent at communicating all prospective job opportunities to me and was equally honest and straightforward when I had not been successful for a role. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending Aardvark Swift to colleagues past and present.
Richard, Assistant Brand Manager
Having been made redundant from my previous position within the games industry, I took time to register with Aardvark Swift and I'm very glad that I did! Compared to other agencies I found them very approachable, and I always felt that they were very interested in me as a person, taking time to understand my situation and doing their best to meet my individual requirements. They were also very responsive and were very quick to inform me when an opportunity became available, which ultimately resulted in my new position with a prominent publisher, a position that I would not have got unless it had been for the persistance of Mick. I recommend Aardvark Swift as the best agency in the industry and would definitely use them again.
Simon, UK Product Manager
I first heard about Aardvark Swift in an email. I was half way through my last year of university and thought, “It can't hurt to give them a try”. So I applied to the website, uploaded my CV and waited. Very soon I heard from Lisa who gave me some good advice on how to improve my CV and tailor it towards the games industry. As far as finding job opportunities go, Aardvark Swift really came up with the numbers. I would often receive emails from Lisa telling me about a few more roles that she thought I would be interested in. I have now graduated and already I have a better job than I could have wished for. If you're looking for someone to help you get into the games industry as soon as possible, you should talk to Aardvark Swift
James, University of Manchester 2007, Developer support engineer
Aardvark Swift gave a large amount of very friendly and helpful advice on finding a job, and getting through the interview. Once past the interview stage Lisa kept in regular contact with me to keep me up to date on how I was progressing. As well as quite quickly finding me a job, it was nice to feel that there was genuine interest in how I was doing and getting me something I wanted. I'd quite happily recommend Aardvark Swift to anyone looking for a job in the games industry.
David, Junior Programmer
"Aardvark Swift were extremely professional, and only put me forward for jobs that I was interested in pursuing. Most of all, their consultant kept in constant contact, and found a job for me within a few weeks of sending in my CV."
Aaron, Development Engineer
I highly recommend the Aardvark Swift team to applicants. At every stage, I found them easy to approach, very professional, thorough, quick to respond and attentive to all my requests. Thanks again!
Jane, Marketing Manager
I spoke to Hollie almost every day, keeping her informed with updates on my situation. I would send regular updates for my CV, I created and maintained an online portfolio, and within a week she had set me up with two interviews, followed shortly with two more, at the companies of my choice. The advice and guidance I received was vital for the decisions I made and the interviews I attended. In the end all 4 companies made me offers and I was able to pick the one that suited me best, both geographically and financially.
The team at Aardvark Swift are there to help you get your ideal job, allowing you to focus on making it happen in the interviews and through preparation. They say there's no such thing as a free lunch, but Aardvark Swift come pretty close.
Peter, Programmer
Aardvark Swift is a professional and dedicated recruitment agency with a passion for what they do. In my particular case, Louise Devine has been fantastic! Every step of the way she has encouraged and supported me and given me valuable interviewing tips which paid off and secured me a job working at Disney. I can’t thank her enough and would never have a problem recommending her or any of the team at Aardvark Swift.
Karolina, Approval Process Associate - Toys
Aardvark Swift Recruitment was the first and only games recruitment agency I used. They were extremely helpful and tried really hard to find me the type of job I was looking for. Aardvark has a large array of contacts within the games industry; including the majority of top games companies. Aswift really hustle for you and will source you as many companies as they can. From the first moment I contacted Aardvark they took a small period of time to obtain interviews. I graduated from university on 5th July 2006, by the 12th July Aardvark got me my first and only interview with Rockstar and by 7th August I was working in the games industry. The games industry is a competitive environment to obtain employment; everyone knows that. Therefore sometimes it’s not what you know it’s who you know!
Lawrence, Programmer
"After graduating from university I spent a number of months using various agencies looking for work in the gaming industry without success. Then I found Aardvark Swift. Within a week Lisa got me on my first job interview, and with two more I was happily working. Definitely an agency that know it's stuff."
Ben, Junior Programmer
“After leaving University and looking for my first job in the games industry, Aardvark did everything they possibly could to help me find a position that suited me. They were very friendly and supportive, guiding me through the process from the interview to moving and signing the contract. I would recommend anyone looking for a job in the industry, whether just starting out or already established, to use Aardvark.”
Luke, Graduate Programmer
Aardvark Swift were extremely helpful in finding me my first job in the videogames industry, an industry that is usually considered difficult to get in to. From providing tips on my covering letter to offering help with interview techniques they made the application process as straightforward as possible and continued to be supportive even after I had received my job offer. With their helpful, courteous and knowledgeable consultants I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone who is looking for a job in the videogames industry.
David, Scriptwriter/Researcher
“During my time looking for work I spoke to several agencies but none of them were very helpful and they certainly didn’t seem to have as good an understanding of the game industry as yourself or Aardvark Swift in general.
As a representative for the company you were fantastic and it was great dealing with you.”
Ben, Junior Programmer
Lisa Corbett of Aardvark Swift found me a superb job working as a contractor for one of the top 5 mobile games developers in the world, and has been very supportive in checking on my progress when my original contract was ending, and i am now a full employee.
Roger, Assistant Content Developer
I was really impressed with Aardvark Swift as an agency. What struck me most about the company was how professional they were in dealing with my needs. I had signed onto other agencies’ and had been looking for a job in the industry myself, but within days of joining Aardvark, I had a friendly call from Lisa who managed to arrange interviews with several companies shortly thereafter. I was impressed with the way that Aardvark listened to my needs and the advice they gave me to help look for the right job for me. I was also impressed with the way that they gave me feedback on interviews and tests that I took at other companies and how they would always call to ask how an interview went on the day I had one organised. I think I got a job after about 3 weeks of joining Aardvark and have been here ever since. Aardvark have also been really impressive with their follow-up service to me landing the job. Lisa kept in touch with me whilst at work to see how things were progressing, and if ever I had a problem, she gave me impartial advice which I really appreciated.
In short, if you are looking to get into the industry as a graduate, I would highly recommend Aardvark Swift, I think they are a great outfit and they can definitely help you
Anil, Junior Programmer
I signed up with Aardvark's candidate services as soon as I left university and, while it took a few months, they found me an ideal position. The service is friendly and professional and I am sure that if I find myself needing the services of such an agency again I will look to Aardvark first.
Alex, Content Developer
Lisa was very helpful and encouraging through out the interview process. The information that was made available helped me be more prepared for the interviews. Thank you Lisa for your help and support
William, Server Game Integration Engineer
Having recently graduated, Aardvark Swift made the task of finding a job very easy. They helped find jobs suitable to me, as well as organising interviews and offering advice. Communication with them was top notch and I recommend them to anybody looking for a job in the games industry.
Ben, Junior Programmer
Aardvark Swift’s service is excellent. I especially enjoyed how friendly and personal they where while still being professional. They helped me to construct the perfect CV and quickly identified a list of possible employers for my consideration. They got me interviews so soon after my initial enquiries and even before I graduated.
With their help I found my ideal job. I have no hesitation in recommending Aardvark Swift to others and would most definitely use them again.
Peter, Logic Team Programmer
Aardvark Swift was recommended to me by a good friend and former colleague, who had good experiences in the past with them, and when looking to advance my career, were one of the many companies I called. Lisa was very helpful, and offered me roles based on a good knowledge of the industry and an excellent understanding of the skills gained from my previous roles listed on my CV, rather than the all too common experience of being cold called by headhunters who have failed to grasp the basic summary of skills listed in my resume. I was placed very quickly with an industry leading company where my skills and experience were utilised effectively and given opportunity for growth.
Ben, Content Development Manager
In late 2005 after finishing working on an MSc in Computer Games Technology, I was given a link to the Aardvark Swift website from a friend who's also in the process of developing demo games to send off to games companies, I initially applied for every single job on their programming position list, a short while later Lisa rang my mobile for a brief chat about my CV and what I was looking for in a position. A few things stick out in my mind from that conversation, the main one being that Lisa thought I should change round my CV a little and update my details, this seemed like a chore at the time but now I think it was a very wise piece of advice.
The next day I started to receive emails from Lisa regarding positions that matched my skill set, in reply to each email I simply forwarded my updated CV and asked Lisa to organise an interview if possible, little over a week later I was phoned by Lisa with a date for my first Interview with a games development company Travellers Tails, within commuting distance from where I was living. Lisa forwarded all the relevant information on the company including the company website, the person I would be interviewed by and a map of the local area showing exactly where the place was. The interview went very well although it was clear I had some further work to do on my demos as a couple refused to work at the time, I called Lisa pretty much as soon as I had left the building explaining how it had gone. A few hours later Lisa called me back with some feedback from the interview, unfortunately I hadn't got the job but also with constructive advice regarding my demos, I found this useful knowing that the advice had come from someone in the games development industry and so took it on board instantly.
Over the next couple of weeks I worked hard building up my demos and making sure that they would work for the next interview, Lisa again phoned with the news of securing me not one but two interviews for the following week on the Monday and Tuesday, these were with Free Radical Designs and Creative Industries both were not within commuting distance but Lisa again advised that they could help with any relocation that might happen. With my updated demos in hand and a lot of travelling to do, I prepared for the interviews by reading the websites of each company and playing a couple of their games.
Lisa forwarded me some advice on interview techniques that came in very handy - This time it paid off on the Monday afternoon I was offered a position as a programmer at Free Radical Designs, the company wrote me a job offer letter there and then to take away with me. After phoning Lisa to tell her the good news we agreed that I should attend the interview on Tuesday even if it was just for curtsey and practice but you never know... Again I met with some very down to earth people at creative industries who gave me a lot of advice regarding getting into and staying in the industry and how I could improve my skills.
Four weeks later I started working for Free Radical Designs, Lisa helped me find rented accommodation in the area and offered support during the relocation, the company also helped a lot and now I feel comfortable that I'm at the start of a long career in the games industry thanks to Lisa and the Aardvark Swift team not to mention Free Radical Design.
John, Graduate Programmer
I have worked with Aardvark over the years both as an employer looking for producers and for my own job searches and found Colin to be very professional at all times. Colin has always taken the time to understand what I'm looking for and directed me to appropriate positions, he has been very responsive to my needs and has a good knowledge of the games sector for management positions.... highly recommended!'
Judi - Head of Product Development
I have wanted to get into the games industry for many years. Working in the music industry I believed that the transition between the two industries may be difficult. However, Michael at Aardvark Swift managed this transition from start to finish with the utmost professionalism and really delivered the results that I had hoped for.
Aardvark Swift’s experienced advice and good communication allowed my transition between the two industries to be smooth and furthermore, a pleasure! I would recommend them to anyone wanting to get into games at all levels.
Gary, Online Marketing Executive
Having worked with Ian, Michael and the rest of the Aardvark team over a number of years I have always enjoyed my experiences with them. Courteous, helpful and always available, I would have no hesitation in recommending them as one of the leading recruitment agencies in the interactive entertainment industry.
Simon, PR Manager
"Aardvark Swift provided me with very fast answers, excellent personal service and support both before and after the recruitment process. I would personally recommend them to anyone looking for work within the videogames industry."
Roxana, PR/Events Manager
Michael played a key role in my placement with a leading entertainment publisher. He was able to identify a role that was perfectly suited to my career goals and within days I was placed at the company. Michael has provided great advice and support and I highly recommend his services to anyone looking to get ahead in their career.” September 21, 2006
Top qualities: Great Results, Expert, High Integrity
Tim, Product Manager
“Mick is an extremely helpful, informative, and friendly recruitment consultant at Aardvark Swift who was responsible for helping me get my current job as Website Manager at Creative Assembly. I thoroughly recommend him, and look forwards to keeping in touch with him in the future.” September 21, 2006
Mark, Website Manager
"This is my first time working with Aardvark Swift and they did a great job. Politeness, availability, kindness and professionalism: 4 words to resume their job. I really recommend them."
Mirko, European Product Mgr
I always had the feeling that I was very well looked after. We had frequent contact over the last months and Lindsay Dolman never missed an opportunity to keep me updated on what is happening on the market - she kept me well informed. I would always recommend Aardvark Swift as a very reliable job agency.
Sebastian, QA Project Manager
Aardvark Swift is by far the best agency to work with. Communication is great, people are pleasant and helpful, and their service is efficient. I would highly recommend this agency to anyone searching for a job in the videogames industry.
Karen, QA Project Lead
I have used Aardvark Swift to find a new job in the Game industry and Lindsay Dolman has been very helpful in this case. She has offered me very good job vacancies and she has always been a delight to work with.
Mirko, QA Project Lead
Being a graduate who has always wanted to work in games, you soon learn to appreciate just how hard it is to secure a job in this industry. Competition is fierce, 'entry' level positions are scarce and it feels like there is no one that can help. This was my impression of the games industry until i chanced upon Aardvark Swift. Having uploaded my CV and registered interest with a few positions, I was contacted almost immediately. Lindsay quickly arranged for me to have an interview, and she has been a true help, guiding me through each step of the process....if I needed help with something I felt I could go straight to her and she was always forthright with her replies. Many thanks go out to her and the rest of the team for being dedicated, professional and helpful.
Mathew, Quality Assurance Tester
"The quality of the positions I have been put forward for have been A+. With endless Patience, Advice, and general communication from Lindsay making the job finding process a pleasure rather than a chore. I fully appreciate the professionalism and speed with which Lindsay and Aardvark Swift have helped me to find a fantastic position."
Ron, QA Engineer
As a relatively newcomer in the games industry, I have found Aardvark Swift and Lindsay Dolman in particular very helpful, supportive and professional. Aardvark Swift was able to match my skills with the perfect position. Since then, Lindsay has kept in touch showing genuine interest. Mine has been a very agreeable and smooth experience and I would recommend Aardvark Swift to anyone wishing to work in the games industry.
Frederique, Localisation Project Manager
I have been a candidate of Ian Goodall for a little over a year now and have found him to be both very professional and very helpful to my career, in fact the first job that he put me forward for I got and that is the job that I am still doing and still loving. Throughout the whole of the interview process I was kept up to date with the progress of my application, I was also given feed back as soon as I believe Ian got it, all in all I found the “getting a job in the games industry” experience, quite an easy one to bare.
Chris, Trade Marketing Executive
Aardvark Swift have an excellent customer support ethic, whether you are the candidate or the client. It's refreshing as a candidate to receive unbiased career advise when seeking an employment opportunity
Harvey, Marketing Manager
Ian Goodall and Aardvark Swift have recently facilitated my move into a business development position. I was very impressed by the diligence, attention to detail and support given throughout the process.
My long-term relationship with Ian has been carefully and consciously developed by Ian over the last seven months after I fist approached him for advice. Despite having gaming industry experience, and a relatively strong CV, my skill set is really only applicable to a small number of roles within the industry. Ian took the time to discuss my options, to offer advice and encouragement on how to develop my CV and skill-set in the short to medium term and to only offer me positions that were directly relevant. At no time did he push inappropriate positions onto me in search of a sale and at no point did he make me feel as if I were wasting his time. It was a professional, long-term and considered approach to work and reflects very well on Aardvark and Ian personally.
Ian's Assistant Lindsay also handled the administration around my move competently and with patience. In Ian's absence, her correspondences were short, direct and to the point. Her manner on the phone was also a great reflection on the company.
It is usually the case that people write to a company with a complaint. I am happy to buck this trend and thank Ian and Lindsay for really first class service.
John, Business Development Executive
‘I’ve been fortunate enough to use Aardvark for my previous two jobs in the industry. Working with Ian has been a pleasure as it’s nice to work with an employment agency that doesn’t talk down to you, treat you like a child or speak in a grating voice. I have found him to be honest, eager to help me find work and most importantly, available. As a result of Ian and Aardvark’s assistance I now find myself in a fantastic job in an industry I love!’
Richard, Marketing Executive
"Aardvark Swift have an amazing ability of placing the right people at the right company with an extremely professional approach!"
Neena, European PR Manager
“Ian offered me sound advice at every step of my application allowing me to get my foot in the door of the games industry. Using his years of experience he was quick to identify my abilities and throughout the interview process endeavoured to advise me how I could amplify my strengths within the job interviews - which ultimately enabled me to clearly stand out from the other applicants”
Steven, Marketing Executive
In finding a job in the UK while I was living in The Netherlands, Aardvark swift became a tremendous asset. I trusted them enough to let them do all the job hunting for me so I only had to worry about the interviews. Even after I landed at the perfect job they helped with relocating and kept in touch to make sure everyone was happy. They care and that makes all the difference.
Aardvark swift definitely gets my stamp of approval!
Ronald, Programmer
“Having recently graduated from University, searching for employment within the games industry seemed a daunting task. It quickly became apparent that the graduate support structure provided by Aardvark would be the perfect starting point. The level of assistance offered during the recruitment process was ideal, with my CV only being posted where I requested. All in all, I would have no hesitation in recommending Aardvark Swift to anyone, especially University graduates.”
Simon, Level Designer
A few days after my subscrition was placed on their website, Lindsay from Aardvark basically found me a job. She promptly passed my CV and all of the questions I had to Rockstar making the communication between the company and myself swift and clear. She answered some of the questions I had herself too, treating me like a person, not like a mere e-mail address. So basically, after two months I started working for Rockstar here in the UK. Aardvark has played a crucial role in this story. I recommend Aardvark Swift to all those that are looking for a job in the field of videogaming.
Michele, Localization Tester
Simon is a very competent recruiter offers some very good advice through the entire process of getting a job. He pointed me towards my job at Codemasters and subsequently helped us employ a highly skilled candidate for my team. Based on this experience I would recommend Simon to anyone looking for jobs or employing.
Ivan, Lead Effects Artist
I first heard about Aardvark Swift in an email. I was half way through my last year of university and thought, “It can't hurt to give them a try”. So I applied to the website, uploaded my CV and waited. Very soon I heard from Lisa who gave me some good advice on how to improve my CV and tailor it towards the games industry. As far as finding job opportunities go, Aardvark Swift really came up with the numbers. I would often receive emails from Lisa telling me about a few more roles that she thought I would be interested in. I have now graduated and already I have a better job than I could have wished for. If you're looking for someone to help you get into the games industry as soon as possible, you should talk to Aardvark Swift!
James, University of Manchester 2007, Developer Support Engineer
Michael Hobson at Aardvark Swift helped me find my dream job as a European Brand Manager. Throughout the recruitment process (from when I initially started looking to even after I'd signed a contract) Michael was professional and courteous as well as immediately available to answer any questions I had. He took the time to find out exactly the reasons I was looking to move and what sort of company I wanted to move to and did not waste any time in coming up with suitable employers. If in the future I ever need to find a new job Michael and Aardvark Swift will be the first person and company I call.
Suddy, European Brand Manager
From the outset, Aardvark Swift acted like no ordinary recruitment agency. Everyone I dealt with treated me with respect and were more than happy to help in anyway possible, which differs from the approach most agencies take in treating you as "just another number".
Michael was excellent at communicating all prospective job opportunities to me and was equally honest and straightforward when I had not been successful for a role. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending Aardvark Swift to colleagues past and present.
Richard, Assistant Brand Manager
Having been made redundant from my previous position within the games industry, I took time to register with Aardvark Swift and I'm very glad that I did! Compared to other agencies I found them very approachable, and I always felt that they were very interested in me as a person, taking time to understand my situation and doing their best to meet my individual requirements. They were also very responsive and were very quick to inform me when an opportunity became available, which ultimately resulted in my new position with a prominent publisher, a position that I would not have got unless it had been for the persistance of Mick. I recommend Aardvark Swift as the best agency in the industry and would definitely use them again.
Simon, UK Product Manager
I first heard about Aardvark Swift in an email. I was half way through my last year of university and thought, “It can't hurt to give them a try”. So I applied to the website, uploaded my CV and waited. Very soon I heard from Lisa who gave me some good advice on how to improve my CV and tailor it towards the games industry. As far as finding job opportunities go, Aardvark Swift really came up with the numbers. I would often receive emails from Lisa telling me about a few more roles that she thought I would be interested in. I have now graduated and already I have a better job than I could have wished for. If you're looking for someone to help you get into the games industry as soon as possible, you should talk to Aardvark Swift
James, University of Manchester 2007, Developer support engineer
Aardvark Swift gave a large amount of very friendly and helpful advice on finding a job, and getting through the interview. Once past the interview stage Lisa kept in regular contact with me to keep me up to date on how I was progressing. As well as quite quickly finding me a job, it was nice to feel that there was genuine interest in how I was doing and getting me something I wanted. I'd quite happily recommend Aardvark Swift to anyone looking for a job in the games industry.
David, Junior Programmer
"Aardvark Swift were extremely professional, and only put me forward for jobs that I was interested in pursuing. Most of all, their consultant kept in constant contact, and found a job for me within a few weeks of sending in my CV."
Aaron, Development Engineer
I highly recommend the Aardvark Swift team to applicants. At every stage, I found them easy to approach, very professional, thorough, quick to respond and attentive to all my requests. Thanks again!
Jane, Marketing Manager
I would like to say a big thank you to Aardvark Swift and especially Colin.
I am truly grateful for all your hard work on my behalf.
Wayne, Producer
Wayne, Producer

