Executive search FAQs
How a retained search with Talent Search Haus works, from who runs your search to how we assess candidates.
What is retained executive search, and how does it differ from contingent recruitment?
Retained executive search, sometimes called headhunting, follows a defined strategy. We map competitors and other organisations likely to hold the right talent, then speak with market participants to test views on targeted and potential candidates that desk research can miss. Fees are invoiced in stages across the project. Contingent recruitment is less rigorous and is invoiced only once the candidate starts the role.
Who will run my search?
A Partner who leads the relevant industry sector or function runs every discussion with market participants and candidates. Our support team handles desk research.
What guarantee do you offer?
We back the rigour of our search and assessment methodology with a 12-month guarantee on all projects.
How long does a search usually take?
Most searches take six to eight weeks. A search can be shorter, depending on the availability of the people we target.
Which sectors and roles do you cover?
We focus on boards, the C-suite, and executives one level below the C-suite. Our sectors are financial services, energy transition, and defence and critical industries.
Do you handle board and non-executive director appointments?
Yes. We work with Chairs to support the appointment of non-executive directors.
How do you assess candidates?
We use our proprietary 5D Talent Due Diligence framework on every search. It is also available on its own, for individual or team evaluations, or for investors assessing human capital. When more data is needed, we partner with providers such as Hogan and SHL.
Where are you based, and can you search internationally?
We are based in Sydney and Melbourne. On every search, we track and map Australian and New Zealand talent working offshore. As preferred executive search partner to Global Australians, we can also reach a network of 70,000 Australians overseas.
How are fees structured?
We work on a retained basis. Fees are agreed for each search and invoiced in stages across the project.
How is Talent Search Haus different from larger search firms?
As a boutique, we are partner-led and more agile. We take on a limited number of clients per sector, so we are less conflicted. Every search must deliver people who make a difference. We use a proprietary assessment tool, built for new ways of working, for existing executives and new appointments. We are preferred executive search partner to Global Australians, and every project carries a 12-month guarantee.
Do you use AI to assess candidates?
We do not use AI to filter or assess candidates. AI only highlights areas for further discussion and interviewing.