A Methodology Built on Precision
Our four-phase process has been refined over 15 years and 12,500+ placements. Every step is designed to eliminate risk, accelerate timelines, and ensure a lasting match.
Our four-phase process has been refined over 15 years and 12,500+ placements. Every step is designed to eliminate risk, accelerate timelines, and ensure a lasting match.
15+
Our methodology has been continuously improved across thousands of engagements in 16 industries worldwide.
21
Average time to present a qualified shortlist — half the industry standard — without compromising on quality.
98%
First-year retention that speaks to the rigor of our assessment and the depth of our cultural matching.
Phase One
Every successful placement begins with deep understanding. We invest significant time upfront to understand not just the role, but your culture, strategy, competitive landscape, and the intangible qualities that make someone successful in your organization.
Phase Two
Our research team builds a comprehensive map of the talent landscape — identifying target companies, specific individuals, and competitive dynamics. We combine proprietary databases, industry networks, and discreet headhunting to reach both active and passive candidates.
Phase Three
Every candidate on our shortlist has been through a multi-stage evaluation that goes far beyond reviewing CVs. We assess competency, leadership style, cultural alignment, and motivation — ensuring only genuinely qualified candidates reach your interview room.
Phase Four
Our involvement doesn't end at offer acceptance. We manage the entire closing process — from negotiation through resignation, notice period, and onboarding — and maintain a structured follow-up program for 12 months post-placement to ensure lasting success.
Typical Timeline
A week-by-week view of a typical executive search engagement, from kickoff to placement.
Week 1
Immersive discovery sessions with key stakeholders. Finalize role specification, success profile, and search strategy. Begin market mapping.
Milestone: Search Strategy ApprovedWeeks 2 – 3
Comprehensive talent landscape research. Identify and approach 60-100 target candidates through confidential, multi-channel outreach.
Milestone: Longlist DeliveredWeeks 3 – 4
In-depth screening interviews with interested candidates. Psychometric assessments, competency evaluation, and initial reference checks on top performers.
Milestone: Shortlist PresentedWeeks 5 – 7
Structured interview process with your team. We prepare candidates, gather feedback, facilitate assessments, and manage scheduling logistics.
Milestone: Finalist SelectedWeeks 7 – 8
Comprehensive reference checks on the finalist. Compensation negotiation, offer management, resignation support, and counter-offer strategy.
Milestone: Offer AcceptedWeeks 9 – 12+
Structured onboarding support, 30/60/90-day check-ins, and ongoing engagement through our 12-month post-placement program.
Milestone: 12-Month Review CompleteAssessment Framework
Our proprietary six-pillar assessment framework ensures every candidate is evaluated holistically — not just on what they've done, but on how they'll perform in your specific context.
Deep evaluation of functional expertise, industry knowledge, and the specific technical skills required for success in the role.
Assessment of leadership style, team-building ability, decision-making under pressure, and track record of developing others.
Evaluation of values, working style, communication preferences, and alignment with your organization's unique culture and norms.
Verification of claimed achievements through detailed reference checks, quantified impact analysis, and career progression patterns.
Understanding what drives the candidate, their long-term ambitions, and genuine commitment to the opportunity — not just the compensation.
Background verification, credential validation, conflict-of-interest screening, and assessment of potential flight risks or red flags.
Our Commitment
We stand behind every placement with concrete commitments — not vague promises.
12
months
Free replacement search if a placed candidate departs within 12 months.
21
days
Qualified shortlist delivered within 21 business days of search kickoff.
98
%
Candidates still in role 12 months post-placement across all engagements.
100
%
Weekly updates, honest market feedback, and full visibility throughout the process.
Questions
Common questions about how we work, from first conversation to final placement.
The discovery phase requires 3-4 hours of stakeholder time for interviews and alignment sessions. After that, we handle the heavy lifting. You'll receive weekly written updates and need approximately 1-2 hours per week for candidate review and interview feedback during the active interview phase.
If the shortlist doesn't meet expectations, we conduct a detailed feedback session to understand the gap, then recalibrate our search parameters at no additional cost. Our 98% satisfaction rate means this is rare, but we have a clear process for it. We don't stop until you're confident in the candidates presented.
Yes — many of our engagements are confidential. We have robust protocols for replacement searches, succession planning, and market-sensitive roles. Your company name is never disclosed to candidates until you approve, and all communications are handled through our secure channels.
Three things: First, our consultants have worked in the industries they recruit for — they understand the roles from the inside. Second, we use a proprietary six-pillar framework that evaluates technical skill, leadership, culture, performance, motivation, and risk holistically. Third, we conduct 3-5 structured references per finalist, not the standard 2.
We prepare for counter-offers from the very first conversation. During our assessment, we deeply understand each candidate's motivations and commitment level. We also provide resignation coaching and maintain close communication during the notice period. Our counter-offer acceptance rate is under 3%.
Structured check-ins at 30, 60, and 90 days with both the placed candidate and the hiring manager. A formal 6-month performance and integration review. And a 12-month retention confirmation. If any issues arise during this period, we provide mediation support and, if needed, activate our replacement guarantee.