Detailed Performance Reference Letter Template (UK 2026)

[On company letterhead, or personal letterhead if writing in personal capacity]

[Date]

Dear [Specific addressee, or 'To whom it may concern'],

I am writing in support of [Candidate name]'s application for [target role/programme]. I had the pleasure of working with [Candidate name] from [start date] to [end date — or 'present'], during which time they reported directly to me as [Job title] at [Company name].

In their role, [Candidate name] was responsible for [detailed scope — team size, budget, P&L if relevant, key responsibilities — 3-4 sentences].

Over our working relationship, [Candidate name] consistently demonstrated [primary strength], which was particularly evident in [specific situation/project — 3-4 sentences with concrete outcome].

Some specific examples of their impact include:

1. [Project/achievement with detail — situation, action, result, 3-4 sentences]
2. [Project/achievement with detail — situation, action, result, 3-4 sentences]
3. [Project/achievement with detail — situation, action, result, 3-4 sentences]

Beyond their direct work, [Candidate name] has [behavioural quality 1 — with brief example]. They are someone who [behavioural observation that gives the reader a sense of working style]. [Their] approach to [specific aspect — feedback, collaboration, conflict, etc.] has been particularly notable.

For [target role/programme], I would highlight [specific match between candidate strengths and the target opportunity — 2-3 sentences]. I have confidence they will perform at the level required.

I recommend [Candidate name] without hesitation and would be happy to discuss any aspect of this reference in more detail. Please feel free to contact me directly.

Yours faithfully,
[Your name]
[Your role]
[Company name]
[Email] · [Phone]