Global white collar recruiter Michael Page International has posted a healthy increase in its 2005 pre-tax profits.

The recruitment consultancy’s full year revenue was estimated at £267.5m for 2005 compared to £210.6m in 2004.

Continental Europe remained the major player reporting £24.7m in fourth quarter revenues for 2005 - a 40.8% increase compared to 2004.

France grabbed the lion’s share with a full year revenue of £86.1m, an increase of 40% on 2004.

The Americas, the fastest growing sector with fourth quarter revenues 63.8% up on 2004, also opened an office in Philadelphia.

“In the fourth quarter we achieved strong growth in Group revenue exceeding £70m in one quarter for the group’s history.

“2005 has been a very successful year for the Group and we are well positioned for further growth in 2006 and beyond,” said departing chief executive Terry Benson.