Executive Search and C-Suite recruitment

We are an International executive search consultancy firm with 24 years of specialist domain knowledge.

What sets us apart as an executive recruitment agency is our focus on specific areas. Our executive recruiters are consultants with deep knowledge in product managementproduct design and UXmarketing and eCommerce giving our executive recruitment agency a distinct edge when it comes to headhunting and placement of C-suite roles.

Unlike other executive recruitment consultants, we already have a network of candidates for each search, so there’s no need for lengthy discovery processes. This means we can quickly provide high-quality shortlists for C-suite executive search projects without ever compromising on quality.

Our executive recruitment agency is always on the lookout for talented individuals in senior leadership and C-level positions, whether they’re actively searching or not. This makes our search and selection process one of the fastest and most effective in our field. 

Executive Search Recruitment: Why us?

We provide flexible leadership solutions for permanent and interim placements. But there are more reasons why we’re respected by our clients.

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We’ll listen carefully to your needs and using our industry experience and vast network, we’ll connect you to real talent in the market.
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01727 736690.

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Why leaders choose us

Meet our directors

We understand how critical key C-level recruitment projects are for our customers’ staffing needs. Therefore, all of our executive search assignments are led or overseen by one of our management team, with support from our experienced search consultants and researchers, who will often have an industry specialism.

C-Suite Executive Search: roles we recruit for

We specialise in C-suite executive search. These are the senior management and C-level positions we recruit for on a contingency or retained basis.

Find out more about our interim executive recruitment services.

How does Executive Search consultancy work?

Our team of Executive Search consultants collaborate closely with you to enhance your hiring plan, which involves determining potential talent sources, devising attractive offers and implementing strategies to appeal to the most qualified candidates.

At Intelligent People, our Executive Search consultancy division employs a comprehensive and meticulous process to guarantee that all potential candidates are thoroughly assessed during the research phase. Our proactive and multi-faceted approach entails identifying and focusing on both rival firms and parallel industries that may possess the necessary expertise, from senior management to C-level candidates .

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Our Executive Search recruitment method

Intelligent People Recruitment Method

How long does Executive Search consultancy take?

1

Week 1

  • Assignment confirmation
  • Kick-off meeting & confirmation of brief, roadmap, methodology and timescales
  • Market mapping & presentation of suitable target companies
  • Research into target list, identify long list of potential candidates
2

Week 2

  • Initiate campaign to identify active candidate utilising talent system, networks, referrals & market footprint
  • Commence engagement with active candidates & start pitching process
  • Make initial headhunting approaches to suitable candidates from target list (passive candidates)
3

Week 3

  • Continued screening of active and passive candidates
  • Commence interviews of selected candidates
4

Week 4

  • Continue interviews of selected candidates
5

Week 5

  • Complete interviews
  • Present finalised shortlist from all sources

Executive Search FAQs

Q: What is Executive Search?

A: Executive Search is a specialised recruitment process focused on identifying, engaging, and hiring senior-level leaders, such as C-suite executives, directors, and VPs. Unlike traditional recruitment, Executive Search involves proactive headhunting, extensive market mapping, and deep industry insight to find candidates who aren’t actively looking for new roles but are the right strategic fit.

A: “Executive Search” refers to the tailored process of sourcing high-calibre leadership talent for key roles within an organisation. It’s about quality over quantity – targeting the best leaders in the market, not just those actively applying.

A: Executive Search typically covers senior leadership and C-level roles – such as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), Chief Product Officer (CPO), Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Managing Director, or VP-level positions. It’s designed for organisations looking to attract proven leaders with the experience to drive strategy, growth, and transformation.

A: The cost of an Executive Search can vary depending on the complexity of the role, seniority level, and scope of the search. On average, Executive Search fees range between 25% and 35% of the successful candidate’s first-year total compensation. At Intelligent People, our fees reflect the depth of research, market insight and network access required to secure world-class leadership talent.

A: An Executive Search firm works by deeply understanding your organisation’s goals, culture, and leadership needs. The process includes:

  1. Briefing & discovery – defining the ideal candidate profile and success criteria.

  2. Market mapping & headhunting – identifying top talent across your industry.

  3. Assessment & shortlisting – evaluating candidates through interviews and reference checks.

  4. Client presentation & selection – delivering a curated shortlist of leaders who fit.

  5. Offer & onboarding support – managing negotiation and ensuring a smooth transition.

At Intelligent People, our consultants combine sector expertise with long-established networks to deliver exceptional leadership hires quickly and efficiently.

To hire an Executive Search firm:

  1. Identify your leadership needs – clarify the skills, experience, and qualities you require.

  2. Research specialist firms – look for agencies with proven success in your sector.

  3. Evaluate their process – ask about timelines, candidate networks, and approach to confidentiality.

  4. Check track record – client testimonials and placement success rates are key.

  5. Partner collaboratively – share insights about your business and culture for the best results.

Intelligent People makes this simple – with 25+ years of experience in product, marketing, eCommerce, and design leadership recruitment, we’re a trusted Executive Search Recruitment Agency for fast, high-quality placements.

A: The main difference lies in approach and level.

  • Recruitment focuses on filling a wide range of roles, often through advertising and applicant sourcing.

  • Executive Search is a more strategic, research-driven process aimed at attracting senior leaders and niche specialists, often those not actively on the job market.

Executive Search Recruitment Agencies like Intelligent People use deep industry knowledge, discreet headhunting, and relationship-driven sourcing to find exceptional leaders.

There are several well-known global Executive Search firms, including:

  1. Intelligent People – a leading Executive Search Recruitment Agency specialising in product, marketing, eCommerce, and design leadership – but then we are bias.

  2. Korn Ferry

  3. Spencer Stuart

  4. Heidrick & Struggles

  5. Egon Zehnder

  6. Russell Reynolds Associates

Intelligent People stands out for its deep domain expertise, agile approach, and long-term relationships built and nurtured over 25 years.

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