Executive search

the process

The essential method of operation of an executive search assignment follows a well-defined pattern. This is designed to produce efficient and cost-effective results and it allows the client to be involved in and critically aware of the assignment's progress.

Once a position specification is approved and the search areas are defined by the client, it is the production of the Search Plan which will prove to be the key to the assignment's successful completion.


	We work only within the framework of a pre-agreed assignment and, before submitting details of candidates, we will have conducted in-depth interviews and compiled a comprehensive report which will answer such questions as: "is it their intellect, drive, business acumen, technical skills, sound commercial judgment... or just good fortune which has led to their current position?"

THE SEARCH PLAN This Plan, incorporating specifically researched and (to a lesser extent) existing computer data, represents the individual contacts which will be made during the search process. By approaching specific executives the consultancy will determine, directly and by recommendation, who is interested in a particular position and how they will match the client's requirements. It is the responsibility of the consultancy to make potentially suitable executives aware that the particular position exists and to represent the client's interests in a confidential manner.

PRELIMINARY INTERVIEWS Once the executive's interest, qualifications and suitability have been determined, the consultant responsible for the assignment will meet the executive. At such meetings it is our responsibility to examine the executive's background and personality in relation to the client's needs. Simultaneously, the consultant seeks to brief the executive, as fully as confidentiality will allow, as to the position and the client's organisation, style and culture. It is important to remember that we are acting as the client's representative and it is our responsibility to be positively informative about our clients and the positions they are seeking to fill. Equally, it is essential to create candidate confidence in relation to the search process.

PRESENTATION TO THE CLIENT After conducting a series of preliminary interviews, the consultant will determine which of the executives most closely match the overall needs of the client. These individuals will be presented to the client in fully documented form covering educational and career background experience, together with an analysis and appraisal of the executive's achievements, ability and suitability in relation to the position. Frequently, it is necessary to review the presented candidates with the client.