UK Recruitment Glossary
CPD (Continuing Professional Development)
In recruiter context
Each profession has its own CPD framework — ACA requires 40 hours/year, CIMA 36 hours/year, ICE has chartered engineer requirements, GMC has appraisal-tied CPD for doctors, GTC for teachers. Most CPD requirements include a mix of structured (courses, conferences) and unstructured (reading, on-the-job learning) hours. Failure to log CPD can result in suspension of qualification. For job seekers, CPD is a credibility signal — recent CPD logs on a CV signal active engagement; gaps signal disengagement. Many UK employers fund CPD as part of professional development budgets.
Related terms
Contingent Search
The recruitment model where the agency only earns a fee if their candidate is successfully placed.
Career Break
A formal pause in employment, typically 6 months to 2 years, agreed with your employer or taken betw…
Hiring Manager
The person who has the open headcount and will be your future direct boss if you get the role.
Recruiter (in-house vs agency)
A person who finds, screens, and shortlists candidates for hiring managers.