Frequently asked questions

Employers

What does the executive search process entail?

Executive search, also commonly known as head hunting, is a bespoke recruitment service that seeks to attract and secure the most highly skilled leadership talent for a company. Conducted discreetly, this service is often implemented by an external executive search consultant or agency, acting on behalf of their client. The process involves a thorough and precise method to identify potential candidates, primarily focusing on those in senior roles or esteemed leaders within the industry. This may involve extensive industry research, competitor analysis, and substantial networking.

Could you define a retained search?

A retained search is an exceptionally specialised recruitment technique, whereby a recruiter is contracted exclusively to find the most fitting talent for a particular role. This strategy is predominantly directed towards the passive candidate market, those professionals who are not actively pursuing a new role but may be interested in exceptional opportunities. A list of targeted competitors is mutually agreed upon between the recruiter and the client, and confidential approaches are made by the recruiter to evoke interest in the role. The fee is typically divided into three parts: a retainer to initiate the project, a working fee upon presentation of a short-list, and a final appointment fee when a candidate accepts the role. Adderleys operates exclusively on a retained basis for leadership assignments.

What is contingency recruitment?

Contingency recruitment operates on a "no success, no fee" model. A recruiter sources potential candidates from advertising and databases for potential employers to consider. This model focuses primarily on active job seekers and is typically used for entry level roles up to mid-range salaries. Contingency recruiters dedicate a comparatively minimal amount of time in assessing each application, given the large number of applications often involved.

Why do companies utilise retained executive search?

Companies opt for retained search primarily for board level and senior leadership roles. It allows companies to source and recruit high-level talent, reduce staff turnover, enhance diversity in the C-suite and board, improve the quality of candidates, and fill leadership positions swiftly and discreetly. The confidentiality and focus provided by a retained search approach ensures a comprehensive and targeted search for the most suitable individuals for the role, often leading to successful long-term appointments.

Candidates

What becomes of my personal details if I apply for a role?

We pledge to provide absolute confidentiality for all our clients and candidates. We only share your personal details with our clients once we've obtained your explicit prior consent. We do not, under any circumstance, send your CV to other businesses speculatively or without your permission.

What transpires after I submit an application?

At Adderleys, we support candidates throughout the entire recruitment process. This involves assistance with the preparation of your documentation and completion of any questionnaires. We also arrange interviews and provide you with feedback from the client. Our goal is to ensure a seamless and informed application process, ensuring you feel well-prepared at every stage.

Will my application be considered for other roles?

Should your initial application not result in an immediate position, we retain your details on file for a period of up to 12 months. During this period, we will keep you informed about the latest leadership opportunities that correspond with your skills and career aspirations. Rest assured, your personal details will always be treated with the utmost confidentiality.

Are there any costs incurred by candidates?

At Adderleys, we do not charge candidates for our services. As a candidate, you would be responsible for your own incidental expenses, such as those incurred in travelling to interviews, whether they take place at our offices or those of our clients. We believe in an open and accessible recruitment process, making our services free to candidates and charging only our corporate clients.