Executive Search · Technology

People that
move companies
forward.

We identify and connect the leaders who transform technology companies. With rigour, discretion and a long-term view.

94%
2-year retention rate
+120
Executives placed
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Who we are

Beyond
recruitment.

Assen is not a recruitment agency. We are a strategic partner in building the teams that will define the future of your company. Founded by a psychologist with deep HR expertise, Assen brings a unique combination of human insight, psychometric rigour and recruitment strategy to every search.

Confidentiality

Every search is handled with the utmost discretion, protecting both client and candidate at every stage.

Judgement

We don't present volume. We present the profiles that truly fit your company's vision and culture.

Human approach

We build long-term relationships with both clients and candidates, grounded in trust and transparency.

Guarantee

Onboarding support during the integration period and an extended replacement guarantee.

The person behind Assen

Karla Assen

Founder · Barcelona

Psychologist trained in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) by the Albert Ellis Institute, New York

Certified ACTP Coach · International Coaching Federation

Certified in psychometric testing tools for competency-based assessment

I'm an HR expert with deep experience across Fintech, Banking, Retail and Insurance. I help companies scale by connecting them with top talent in both tech and non-tech areas, across middle and senior management.

What sets my approach apart is the combination of psychology and recruitment strategy. I don't just evaluate CVs — I assess behaviour, motivations and cultural fit using validated psychometric tools. That means better decisions, less risk and longer-lasting hires.

I'm passionate about connecting human talent with organisations and contributing to business growth through a close, personalised approach. My professional relationships go beyond the technical — I seek to build long-term, trusting partnerships with both clients and candidates.

View LinkedIn profile

What we do

For companies

01

Executive Search

We allow our clients to focus on the core of their business by delegating talent search to a multidisciplinary team of specialists. We identify and attract highly qualified professionals with the experience and competencies your organisation truly needs.

02

Market Mapping

Through in-depth market research and a thorough analysis of companies and sectors of interest, we identify key areas and specific profiles to bring in the right talent. An ideal solution for growing companies, restructuring processes and startups.

03

Competency Assessment

For both new hires and internal evaluations, we use psychometric testing platforms to identify strengths, areas for improvement and cultural fit. Objective data to support better people decisions.

For individuals & companies

04

Professional Outplacement

Whether you are a professional navigating a career transition or a company supporting departing talent, we offer a personalised outplacement programme including one-to-one coaching, personal brand positioning, interview preparation and active network introduction to land the right next step with confidence.

Psychometric Assessment

Every outplacement process includes validated psychometric tools to help professionals gain deep self-awareness, identifying strengths, working style, and the environments where they truly thrive. This clarity becomes the foundation for a focused and confident job search.

AI-Powered Career Strategy

At Assen, we integrate cutting-edge artificial intelligence tools into our outplacement methodology, from market mapping and opportunity analysis to CV optimisation and interview preparation. While most firms still rely on traditional approaches, we combine human expertise with AI precision to give our candidates a real competitive edge.

Science-backed process. AI-enhanced execution. Human at the core.

How we work

A structured process that ensures long-term cultural and professional fit.

01

Brief & Context

We gain a deep understanding of your company, culture, strategic moment and the exact profile you need.

02

Active search

We identify candidates who are not actively looking. Access to talent that doesn't appear on any job board.

03

Rigorous assessment

In-depth interviews, competency assessment and references verified directly from primary sources.

04

Integration & follow-up

We support the onboarding process during the first 6 months to ensure a successful and lasting placement.

Industries

Who we work with

Our approach

Any industry.
The right talent.

Every sector has its own dynamics, culture and talent market. We adapt our methodology to each context, bringing the same rigour and discretion regardless of the industry or the size of the organisation.

Clients

What they say

"I had the pleasure of working with Karla, and she was instrumental in helping me consistently attract and hire some of the best talent for my team. What truly sets her apart is her ability to deeply understand both the role requirements and the team dynamics. She goes beyond simply matching skills on paper — she has a great eye for identifying candidates who are not only well-prepared, but also a strong cultural fit."

JM

Juliana Machado

Head of Risk & Compliance · Fintech Company

"I had the opportunity to work with Karla and my experience was extremely positive. Her commitment and follow-through in selection processes is outstanding. She led my onboarding process and ensured clear, constant communication throughout — providing continuous feedback and keeping me informed at every stage. Her persistence and relationship-building skills generate trust and create lasting connections, which is key in recruitment."

VB

Valeria Bravo

Head of Finance & Accounting · Fintech Company

"What I appreciate most about Karla is not only her sharp strategic mindset when it comes to Executive Search, but also the genuine care she brings to every interaction. She has a unique ability to understand both the business needs and the human side of hiring. During the time we worked together, I was consistently impressed by her ability to navigate complex searches with calm, focus, and integrity. She doesn't just fill roles — she builds long-term value."

MJ

María José Naya

Head of Communications & Public Relations · Fintech Company

Looking for your next
key hire?

Let's talk. The best searches start with an honest conversation about what you truly need.

Start a conversation

Let's talk

We work with a limited number of clients each year to ensure the level of service they deserve. If you think your search could be right for Assen, we would love to hear from you.