French recruitment market shifts toward expert profiles and longer processes

The French recruitment market is experiencing a period of adaptation characterized by longer decision-making processes and increased selectivity. According to Alexandre Tamagnaud, President of FED Group, while hiring volumes have decreased, there remains a persistent demand for expert and strategic profiles, particularly in finance and human resources.

In the Finistère region, the economic landscape—spanning maritime, digital, and defense sectors—requires specialized recruitment expertise. Local firms such as Happy to meet you and C. H Recrutement are addressing the needs of SMEs and mid-sized companies by focusing on technical and digital roles. Additionally, recruitment agencies in the region must now navigate new regulatory requirements, such as the European AI Act, which classifies AI-assisted recruitment as a high-risk practice as of 2025.