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RPO That’s Just Right: How Midsized Providers Outperform the Rest

RPO That’s Just Right: How Midsized Providers Outperform the Rest

Ed Bushnell

Ed Bushnell

3 mins read September 19, 2025

RPO That’s Just Right: How Midsized Providers Outperform the Rest

In the Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) world, organisations often find themselves weighing up the pros and cons of going big or small with their outsourcing partners. Larger providers promise scale and resources but can feel impersonal and rigid, while small or boutique ones offer flexibility but may need more breadth of capability for complex needs. This is where mid-sized RPO providers, like Morgan McKinley, strike the perfect balance—offering the best of both worlds.

We’re not too big that we ever lose sight of our clients’ unique needs, nor too small to handle complex, high-volume requirements. Instead, we provide a “just right” solution: agile, tailored, and capable. Below, we explore why organisations increasingly turn to RPO providers that bring this balanced approach and how choosing the right sized partner can make all the difference.

1. A More Personalised and Flexible Approach

Mid-sized RPO providers excel at blending scale with personalisation. Unlike larger firms that often rely on standardised processes, we tailor solutions to meet each client's unique needs. Our size allows us to remain agile and adaptive while offering the resources and expertise to handle large and complex recruitment needs.

2. Speed and Agility in a Changing Market

Midsized RPOs have the edge when it comes to speed and agility. We’re not bogged down by excessive bureaucracy, allowing us to pivot quickly in response to changes in the market or a client’s needs. This adaptability is a key differentiator in today’s fast-paced environment.

3. Direct Access to Senior Leadership

Unlike larger providers, where decision-makers can feel distant, mid-sized RPOs provide clients with direct access to senior leaders. At Morgan McKinley, this means our leadership is hands-on and actively involved in shaping your recruitment strategy, fostering a true partnership that aligns with your goals.

4. Consistent and Long-Term Relationship Management

RPOs work best when the Account Manager deeply understands the client’s company and its culture. This knowledge can only be realised over time as the relationship between the RPO and the customer develops. This consistent approach is less common in larger RPOs, where higher employee turnover or shifting account teams can disrupt service quality.

5. Cost Efficiency Without Sacrificing Quality

Although many larger RPOs have large operations in low-cost countries such as India and the Philippines, they typically have higher costs than mid-sized RPO providers. The reasons for this are complex but may in part be due to bureaucracy and obligations to service-loss-making countries as part of global deals. Meanwhile, Morgan McKinley operates with a lean but capable model, delivering cost-effective solutions without compromising quality or reach.

6. High Client Dedication

For midsized RPOs, every client relationship is integral to success. This heightened focus ensures we consistently go above and beyond to meet our clients’ needs. Our clients aren’t just a number to us—they’re valued partners, and their success is ours.

The “Just Right” Choice for Your RPO Needs

When considering an RPO partnership, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking bigger is better or that smaller means more flexible. However, the reality is more nuanced. A mid-sized RPO provider like Morgan McKinley offers a sweet spot: the personalised service and agility of a smaller provider combined with the capability and reach of a larger one.

If you’re looking for an RPO partner that feels “just right” for your business—balancing scale, flexibility, and dedication—Morgan McKinley is ready to help you achieve your goals.

Ed Bushnell

Ed Bushnell

Global Head of Outreach

in/edbushnell/