I am Don Doobay, Managing Director and Founder of Human Capital Associates — a UK-headquartered, globally active retained executive search and advisory firm.

I work with ambitious organisations in financial services, technology and regulated markets to secure the leadership and specialist talent that can materially accelerate growth, transformation and resilience. Our work spans Risk, Compliance, Financial Crime, Cybersecurity, Data & AI, Digital Transformation and executive leadership.

Human Capital Associates is built for assignments where the appointment truly matters: where discretion is essential, the market is competitive, and conventional recruitment will not reach the people capable of making the difference. We combine rigorous market intelligence, targeted engagement of high-calibre passive talent and senior-level advisory support to deliver a highly curated shortlist — not a pile of CVs.

For three decades, I have partnered with global enterprises, consultancies, scale-ups and specialist firms on mission-critical appointments across the UK, Europe, North America, Asia and beyond.

If you are building a leadership team, entering a period of change, or need access to exceptional talent that is not actively on the market, I would welcome a confidential conversation.

What makes Human Capital Associates different?
Human Capital Associates is a retained, intelligence-led search partner rather than a transactional recruitment supplier. We work selectively, immerse ourselves in the client’s commercial context and map the market thoroughly before engaging the individuals most capable of delivering the mandate. The result is a focused, credible shortlist and a process designed to reduce risk at every stage.

Why retained search rather than contingency recruitment?
Retained search creates genuine commitment on both sides. It gives the assignment priority, enables deeper research and candidate engagement, and allows us to represent the opportunity with authority and discretion. It is particularly valuable for senior, specialist, confidential or business-critical appointments where the right hire matters far more than speed alone.

What types of organisations do you work with?
We work with global enterprises, leading consultancies, financial institutions, technology businesses, scale-ups and specialist firms. Our clients range from major international brands and Big Four advisory organisations to high-growth businesses building capability in complex or regulated markets.

What areas do you specialise in?
Our core areas include executive leadership, Risk & Compliance, Financial Crime, Cybersecurity, Data & Analytics, AI, Digital Transformation, FinTech and technology-enabled change.

How do you assess candidates?
We assess beyond the CV. Every serious candidate is evaluated against the commercial mandate, technical capability, leadership style, cultural environment, motivation, track record and ability to deliver measurable impact. We are looking for genuine fit, not simply availability.

How can I engage Human Capital Associates?
You can request a confidential introductory conversation directly through this page. I personally review every enquiry and will establish quickly whether we can add value to your hiring challenge, leadership agenda or growth plans.

Beyond work

I love Travel and understanding different Cultures, Photography, Property Investing,Technology,Recording Music and Exploring new ideas ….I read a lot !