Methodology

What you are actually paying us to do.

Twelve stages, each with a defined output and a named owner. Clients receive written coverage evidence throughout, not a progress call.

  1. 01

    Mandate Definition

    We agree scope, terms, decision-makers, timetable and the business context driving the appointment.

  2. 02

    Leadership Profile

    A written profile covering the future role, success measures, capabilities, and the non-negotiables.

  3. 03

    Market Mapping

    Original research across target organisations to define the accessible leadership population.

  4. 04

    Target Identification

    A longlist agreed with the client, with rationale and coverage evidence for each name.

  5. 05

    Executive Approach

    Discreet, partner-led approaches to executives who are not in the market.

  6. 06

    Assessment & Calibration

    Structured interviews against the agreed profile, calibrated with the client before shortlist.

  7. 07

    Shortlist Presentation

    Written reports on each shortlisted executive with evidence, risks and comparison.

  8. 08

    Client Interviews

    We manage the process, prepare both sides, and capture structured feedback at each stage.

  9. 09

    References & Due Diligence

    Formal referencing, qualification checks and, where required, background verification.

  10. 10

    Offer & Negotiation

    We handle compensation structure, notice, counter-offer risk and expectations on both sides.

  11. 11

    Appointment

    Announcement planning, internal communication and stakeholder sequencing.

  12. 12

    Transition & Onboarding

    First-hundred-days support and a formal review at six months.

Candidate assessment

How executives are evaluated.

Every candidate is assessed against the same twelve-point framework, agreed with the client at mandate definition and evidenced in a written report before shortlist.

Executive track record
Functional expertise
Scale and complexity
P&L responsibility
Transformation experience
International exposure
Board interaction
Cultural alignment
Strategic capability
Leadership style
Motivation
Compensation alignment

Why retained search

Two different products.

Retained Search
Contingent Recruitment
Exclusive mandate
Multiple recruiters
Dedicated research
Database driven
Systematic market mapping
Vacancy response
Passive candidate engagement
Active applicants
Structured executive assessment
CV screening
Strategic advisory
Transactional placement
Partner-led
Recruiter-led
Long-term leadership fit
Speed and volume
Discuss a mandate