Built Search

Built Search Group is a recruitment and headhunting firm specialising exclusively in the construction and real estate development industry across North America. Founded in 2014 by Executive Director John Gilfillan, the company focuses on securing the industry's top 1% of talent, including experienced leaders, high-performing professionals, and rising stars who deliver complex projects and drive long-term company growth. Built Search Group works directly with decision-makers at leading and high-growth construction and real estate development companies, with over 90% of positions filled never being advertised publicly. The firm distinguishes itself through senior specialists with genuine hands-on experience from within construction and real estate development companies, ensuring deep understanding of project challenges, team dynamics, and career decisions that matter most.

Built Search Group specialises in three core service areas: construction and real estate development recruitment for critical roles across the entire industry lifecycle, executive and leadership search for confidential headhunting of Vice Presidents, Directors, and C-Suite leaders, and project-critical and specialist search targeting hardest-to-reach professionals in the passive talent market. The company supports hiring at every stage of the development and construction lifecycle, including roles such as Project Manager, Superintendent, Estimator, Development Manager, Preconstruction Manager, Design Manager, Construction Manager, Quantity Surveyor, and executive positions including Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer. Many placements involve confidential leadership hires and strategic team upgrades, with relationships often spanning more than a decade.

Built Search Group operates across North America with physical offices in Halifax, Toronto, and Vancouver, serving leading construction firms, general contractors, developers, infrastructure builders, architecture and engineering firms, and property management organisations. Clients choose Built Search Group for its industry-specific expertise, proven track record in construction and real estate development recruitment, and commitment to confidential, hands-on service led by senior specialists rather than junior recruiters or generalists. The company's approach is grounded in real industry knowledge and practical experience, with every search personally led by specialists who understand the realities of project delivery and the professionals who excel within the construction and development sectors.