About the CEO

Duchesse Kala-Kala

“Building with purpose, always”

I began my recruitment career in 2012, leading global hiring campaigns for pharma, biotech, and CRO clients across the life sciences sector. Those early years shaped my values of perseverance, authenticity, and purpose—especially as a Black woman building an independent agency in a competitive industry.

In 2020, I founded Duchesse Recruitment to deliver inclusive, high-impact recruitment solutions across life sciences and technology. With a 90% retention rate and partnerships spanning EMEA, North America, and APAC, we’ve proven that expertise and integrity can outperform scale.

In addition to leading Duchesse Recruitment, I actively mentor people of colour—particularly Black women—supporting them in career growth, leadership development, and building sustainable businesses.

In 2025, I launched Legacy Women Capital, an investment fund supporting Black-owned businesses in the UK—continuing my commitment to representation, access, and lasting change.

Grateful to be recognised by industry leaders

Testimonials

Trusted by companies, valued by candidates

I have been working with Duchesse Kala-Kala for a few months now and have found her to be highly engaged and dedicated. She ensures a quick turnaround on invoicing, is easy to reach, and communicates clearly. She is a pleasure to work with and always open to discussion and feedback.

CARDIALYSIS

Director Clinical Operations

Duchesse Kala-Kala has supported Cardialysis for three years in identifying and coordinating clinical research professionals. She consistently connects us with dedicated, talented colleagues, and her goal-oriented, pragmatic approach has helped us maintain and grow a strong network of effective collaborators. We look forward to working together on many more projects in the future.

CARDIALYSIS

CEO

Working with Duchesse Recruitment over the past years has been fantastic. I’ve always found the team highly responsive and supportive. The contractors they provide to Elligo are talented, engaged, and contribute meaningfully to our projects. They are quick to hire even under tight timelines and always provide support when needed. I look forward to continuing our partnership for years to come.

ELLIGO HEALTH RESEARCH

Senior Clinical Project Manager

Duchesse was always helpful in identifying the right clinical research experts we needed. She listens, understands, and delivers.

ORACLE Life Sciences

Global Head Project Manager

I had the privilege of partnering with Duchesse Recruitment for our hiring needs. Their expertise led to successful placements that have been invaluable to our team. Their professional and personalised approach truly sets them apart. Highly recommended for any company seeking top talent and a seamless recruitment process.

PATSNAP

Talent Acquisition Manager

I had the pleasure of having Duchesse as my recruiter for my current role at Patsnap and at the time of this recommendation I'm 4 years into the company! She was great to work with, organised, and ensured I had the best experience during the hiring process.

PATSNAP

Sales Account Executive

Your support helped me a lot in my career journey. The interview process and
feedback gave me more confidence and a better understanding of what companies
look for in clinical research roles. Even though I was not selected for the first
position, you kept my details and later connected me to a company where I am now
working as a Clinical Trial Associate.

CLINICAL RESEARCH

Clinical Trail Associate

+44(0)2039 838 327

+44(0)2039 838 327

Duchesse Kala-Kala

“Building with purpose, always”

In addition to leading Duchesse Recruitment, I actively mentor people of colour—particularly Black women—supporting them in career growth, leadership development, and building sustainable businesses.

Grateful to be recognised by industry leaders

Testimonials

Trusted by companies, valued by candidates

I have been working with Duchesse Kala-Kala for a few months now and have found her to be highly engaged and dedicated. She ensures a quick turnaround on invoicing, is easy to reach, and communicates clearly. She is a pleasure to work with and always open to discussion and feedback.

CARDIALYSIS

CARDIALYSIS

ELLIGO HEALTH RESEARCH

Duchesse was always helpful in identifying the right clinical research experts we needed. She listens, understands, and delivers.

ORACLE Life Sciences

PATSNAP

I had the pleasure of having Duchesse as my recruiter for my current role at Patsnap and at the time of this recommendation I'm 4 years into the company! She was great to work with, organised, and ensured I had the best experience during the hiring process.

PATSNAP

CLINICAL RESEARCH

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