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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 management, product design and UX, marketing 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. 

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London Executive Search Agencies

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.

years established in executive search
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executive placement
success
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of clients return to us within a year
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stars from over 100+ Google Reviews
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01727 736690.

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Why leaders choose us

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4.9Google Star 1Google Star 2Google Star 3Google Star 4Google Star 5
Excellent
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Thomas Finnane
30 September 2026
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Intelligent People are a breath of fresh air in the recruiting world. I primarily worked with Jaanani to secure a new role but also received great support from Doug and Chris. They constantly kept me updated throughout the process, did regular check ins and just were overall great to work with. Highly recommended!
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deepthi ausekar
28 August 2026
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Jaanani and Doug were absolutely fantastic to work with throughout the entire journey. Their constant support and incredible communication kept every stakeholder aligned and made the process seamless. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable, dedicated team!
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eal 2018
28 March 2026
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I recently worked with Marnie and she was fantastic throughout the entire recruitment process. She provided consistent support with regular calls and emails, along with helpful hints and tips that really prepared me for my interview. What stood out most was her personal approach — something I feel many other recruitment agencies could learn from. Marnie truly brings a human touch to the process, which made a significant difference to my experience.
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Amrit
18 February 2026
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I have worked with some good recruiters in my 15 year career but do think Intelligent people have taken the crown. Marnie has been exceptional from day one. She constantly kept me informed during a 3-stage interview process which spanned a couple of weeks, and even when there was no new information, she still gave me the reassurance I needed as a candidate, often daily, so I was never left wondering what was going on. In this day and age where being ghosted by recruiters is the norm, Marnie is clearly a cut above the rest and is refreshing to see recruiters with standards and integrity still exist!
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Raj Iyengar
16 December 2025
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I was able to secure my next permanent role via Intelligent People. The team were excellent throughout the process - they have good insights and inputs and helped with some of the interview rounds. Very professional and thorough. Many thanks to Ayesha and Chris. All the best!
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Samuel Ogunware
21 November 2025
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I had an amazing experience with Intelligent People. James Austin is one of the best recruiters I’ve worked with. His communication was always quick and clear, and his interview preparation guidance genuinely helped me secure a great role. I’d strongly recommend James if you want someone who is professional, supportive and genuinely interested in seeing you succeed.
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Jordan Dixon
14 October 2025
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Fantastic experience working with Chris Mason and the team at Intelligent People. Chris made an effort to keep me updated throughout the recruitment process and was always available to answer any queries that I had - five stars and highly recommended!
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Greg Balogh
7 October 2025
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My experience with Intelligent People was positive and handled with professionalism. Communication from Ayesha was clear and timely throughout the process, and feedback was shared constructively. Although the role itself wasn’t the right fit in the end, I appreciated the transparent approach and courteous interaction. I’d be happy to recommend Intelligent People as a professional and reliable recruitment partner. Greg Balogh
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Tom Henderson
7 October 2025
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**Exceptional Service from Chris Mason and the Team** I recently worked with Intelligent People to secure a fixed-term product management contract - I can say they are one of the best recruitment agencies I've encountered in my career. Communication was excellent throughout the process—I received regular updates and always knew where things stood. They clearly know the market too. The interview preparation guidance Chris provided was particularly valuable. His insights helped me strike the right tone with the interviewer and ensured I connected with them on what they were genuinely looking for in a candidate. I'm confident that preparation made a meaningful difference in securing the role. I wouldn't hesitate to work with them again.
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Siobhan Kane
9 September 2025
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I worked with Marnie Torrance on a role she was recruiting. Throughout the process, she was very supportive and informative. Would highly recommend.

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 .

Read our guide:
Equity 2026

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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