About Gowlink

A relationship-led search partner to private equity.

Our Story

We founded Gowlink, as brothers - Michael and John - to bring a more relationship-led approach to buy-side hiring. Combining Michael's background in executive search with John's experience as a former banker, we are uniquely positioned to speak the language of the funds we serve and the candidates they want to hire.

Every search we take on is led by both of us; personally, and together. We work side by side, bringing our two distinct perspectives to every brief, every shortlist and every conversation. It’s why we deliberately keep our caseload small, and why our clients see the same two faces from first call to final placement.

That approach has earned us the trust of some of the most respected names in private equity, from established mid-market funds to global platforms, across investment roles from Analyst through to Partner, as well as the operating talent leading their portfolio companies.

Our Edge

Our specialist focus on private equity gives us unique insight into the challenges our clients face in hiring talent. Combined with our thorough approach to candidate diligence, people-first ethos, and deep network, it's what allows us to consistently deliver for our clients.

  • Guided by Intelligence

    Where possible, we take a data-led approach. Rather than relying on gut feel alone, our assessment framework helps us zero in on the few candidates suitable for the role.

  • Selective by Design

    Our aim isn't to be the biggest, but the best at what we do. As a founder-led firm, our reputation rests on accuracy, so the people we put forward are people we'd stake our names to.

  • Trusted Partner

    Stronger relationships lead to better hires. We work as an extension of your team: moving at pace, staying close throughout, and as invested in the outcome as you are.

  • Deep Network

    Built over years of close engagement with the PE community, our network gives clients access to top talent, often before it reaches the market. We don't just know who's available; we know who's quietly regarded as the best in the room.

  • Judgement of Character

    A strong CV may get someone into the room, but character is often the differentiator. We’ve developed the pattern recognition and know the questions to ask to understand the person behind the CV.

  • Two Perspectives

    Every mandate benefits from two distinct perspectives and is run by both of us from start to finish. Nothing is passed down to a junior team. The people you meet are the people doing the work.

Beyond the CV

For junior hires, we go a step further. Working with clients, we've developed an interactive, interview-style assessment conducted by an AI agent, that tests not just technical ability, but the commercial judgement and communication skills that separate a good Associate from an exceptional one.

Learn more

Trusted By

Team

Michael and John Gow talking over coffee
Michael and John Gow
Michael Gow

Michael Gow

Founder

I trained in architecture before spending much of my early career across financial services, real estate and advisory work in London and Dubai. After returning to London, I moved into private equity recruitment and went on to found the business that became Gowlink. Since then, I've built a network across the UK, Europe and the US, working with investors and operators at every stage of their careers.

I'm a proud Scouser, married with two young daughters and a big Liverpool FC fan. Outside work, you'll usually find me out walking our dog Ringo on the Heath with a podcast on, watching the match, cycling, or talking about getting back into hiking without finding the time to actually do it.

[email protected]LinkedIn
John Gow

John Gow

Co-Founder

I was a banker for close to a decade, working in structured lending across BNP Paribas, Greensill Capital, and Lloyds Bank. I’d spent my career working closely with sponsors, so when I decided to leave banking and build something of my own, partnering with my brother, who was already working in buy-side search, felt like a natural fit. Private equity is fundamentally a talent business, and the chance to shape who makes the investment decisions, and who goes on to lead the portfolio companies, was compelling.

Away from the desk I'm drawn to the arts, from music and fashion to football (yes, it's an art), and I'll always find an excuse for a festival or a trip somewhere new. Ideally somewhere close to the sea, with decent surf.

[email protected]LinkedIn

Ready to talk?

Whether you’re hiring or considering your next move, we’d love to hear from you.

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