Recommendation Letter - sample
Dr. Anna Lopez
Head of Department, Northwind Ltd.
[email protected]
Date: 13/11/2026
The Admissions Committee
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
Subject: Letter of recommendation for John Smith
It is with great pleasure that I write in support of John Smith, who is applying for the position of Project Manager.
How I know John Smith
I have known John Smith for three years, as his manager at Northwind Ltd., from March 2021 to June 2024. During this time John Smith worked as Senior Analyst in the Planning team, and I had the opportunity to observe John Smith's work closely and at length.
Strengths and achievements
John Smith has shown excellent communication, strong analytical skills and leadership. Some examples of this are:
- Led the migration of our reporting to a new platform, finishing two weeks early and 10% under budget
- Mentored four junior analysts, three of whom were promoted
- Presented to the board each quarter with clear, accurate analysis
John Smith is among the top 5% of the people I have worked with. I could always rely on John Smith to deliver good work on time, to take responsibility, to stay calm under pressure and to treat colleagues and clients with respect.
### An area for growth
In the interest of a fair assessment, I should add that Name sometimes takes on too much and I encouraged more delegation, which improved over time.
### My recommendation
Taking all of this together, I recommend John Smith to you without reservation. I am confident that John Smith will make a valuable contribution to your organisation, and I believe that John Smith has the ability to succeed in the position of Project Manager.
I am confident that John Smith will be an asset to your organisation or programme, and that John Smith has the ability, the discipline and the integrity to meet the standards that you expect. Of all the people I have recommended, John Smith is one whom I support without any reservation.
I have written this letter at the request of John Smith, and it is given only for the position of Project Manager. I ask that it be treated in confidence.
If it would help your decision, I am happy to answer any question about John Smith's work, working style, reliability or any particular situation, and I will do so frankly and in confidence. A reference check by telephone or e-mail may be arranged at a time that suits you. I would also be glad to confirm the dates and the role described above from the records of the organisation, if you need that.
This letter is given in good faith and based on my own knowledge. If you would like to discuss John Smith's application, please contact me at [email protected] or on +44 20 7946 0123.
Yours faithfully,
Dr. Anna Lopez
Head of Department, Northwind Ltd.