Hanover Search & Selection has acquired City-based search firm Napier Scott for an undisclosed sum.

Patrick Field, managing director of Hanover, told Recruiter: “We got into discussions six or seven weeks’ ago. Sean Springer [Napier Scott’s chief executive] was looking for an exit, and we were in the market to purchase a company of that size.”

Field says Springer has “left to pursue other interests”.

Field adds: “This is an excellent strategic deal for us. Napier Scott has a superb reputation within its core market sectors, and we are particularly pleased to be able to add their highly regarded legal search practice to our portfolio.

“In addition, we acquire an international search practice with a strong brand name and market exposure within the MENA [Middle East and North Africa] region, where Hanover already has significant market penetration.  

“We are currently seeing positive signs in the market and increased hiring requirements from both new and existing clients. 2009/2010 is going to be an exciting period for us and we are looking at further acquisitions to expand our market offering.”