Executive Search

Leadership searches handled with discretion and depth

Senior hires shape a business for years. Our executive search service identifies and approaches leaders who are rarely on the job market, and assesses them in depth before they reach your shortlist.

A senior leadership team in discussion around a boardroom table
Service overview

How executive search works with EMPLOYEEQ

The best candidates for senior roles are usually doing well where they are and are not applying for jobs. Reaching them requires research, a credible approach and a clear case for why the opportunity is worth a conversation.

Every search starts with a detailed brief covering the business context, the mandate for the role, the leadership qualities that matter and the reporting relationships involved. We then map the relevant market and build a target list of organisations and individuals.

Candidates are assessed through in-depth interviews covering track record, leadership style and motivation. You receive a shortlist with detailed profiles, and we manage the process through to offer, negotiation and transition.

Key benefits

What you gain

  • Confidential by default

    Searches can be run without revealing your company name until a candidate is seriously engaged.

  • Market insight

    Market mapping shows you who is out there, how your offer compares and what it will take to attract them.

  • Reach beyond applicants

    We approach passive leaders directly, not just people actively looking for a move.

  • Careful offer management

    Senior offers involve complex negotiation and long notice periods. We manage both sides with care.

Who it's for

Is this service right for you?

Executive Search usually suits organisations in one or more of these situations.

  • CXO and leadership team appointments
  • Business unit and regional heads
  • Functional heads in finance, technology, HR and operations
  • Confidential replacements of incumbent leaders
  • Leaders for a new business line or market
  • Board-level and advisory roles
Our process

What happens, step by step

  1. Search brief

    Detailed sessions with stakeholders to define the mandate, profile, compensation and success measures.

  2. Market mapping

    Research into target organisations and individuals, shared with you as the search progresses.

  3. Approach and assess

    Confidential approaches and in-depth interviews covering track record, leadership and motivation.

  4. Shortlist presentation

    Detailed candidate profiles with our assessment and recommendations.

  5. Offer and transition

    Referencing, offer negotiation, resignation support and contact through the notice period.

FAQ

Questions about executive search

How is executive search different from permanent recruitment?

Executive search is research-led and relies on direct approaches to people who are not actively looking. It involves deeper assessment and usually runs on a retained basis with defined stages.

Can the search stay confidential?

Yes. We can run the search without naming your organisation until a candidate has shown serious interest and agreed to confidentiality.

How long does an executive search take?

Senior searches typically take longer than other hires because of research, assessment and notice periods. We agree a timeline with clear milestones at the start.

Enquire

Talk to us about executive search

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