Question 1

What is retained search and how does it differ from contingency recruitment?

Accepted Answer

Retained search is an exclusive engagement in which the client pays a portion of the fee upfront and commits to working with a single agency throughout the search, while contingency recruitment involves multiple agencies competing to fill a role with fees only payable on successful placement, typically used for less senior or more readily available talent.

Question 2

When is retained search the right approach for an organisation?

Accepted Answer

Retained search is appropriate for senior leadership roles including C-suite, board, and divisional head positions, for confidential replacement searches, for roles requiring access to passive candidates in competitive talent markets, and for any hire where a thorough, structured, and dedicated search process is needed to find the best available talent rather than the first available candidate.

Question 3

What does the retained search process typically involve?

Accepted Answer

A retained search engagement involves a detailed briefing and position specification, thorough market mapping of relevant candidates, confidential outreach and engagement, structured competency-based assessment, a managed presentation of a shortlisted slate, interview coordination, referencing, and offer negotiation support through to acceptance and onboarding.

Question 4

How are retained search fees typically structured?

Accepted Answer

Retained search fees are commonly structured in three equal instalments: the first paid on engagement, the second on delivery of a shortlist or agreed milestone, and the final payment on completion of the search, with the total fee typically calculated as a percentage of the placed candidate's first-year total compensation package.

Question 5

What guarantees do retained search firms typically offer on their placements?

Accepted Answer

Most retained search firms offer a replacement guarantee period, typically three to twelve months, during which they will re-conduct the search at no additional professional fee if the placed candidate leaves the role voluntarily or is dismissed for performance-related reasons, reflecting the firm's confidence in the quality of their assessment process.

10Folders

20Twenty Search

Access People

Accretive Talent for Japan (ATJ)

Acuity Consultants

Advisory Group K.K.

Affinity Human Venture

Aidentifi

Alas Legal and Executive Recruitment

Alberto Recruitment

Aligned Recruitment Co.

AMG Human Consulting

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is retained search and how does it differ from contingency recruitment?

When is retained search the right approach for an organisation?

What does the retained search process typically involve?

How are retained search fees typically structured?

What guarantees do retained search firms typically offer on their placements?

Retained Search Agencies for Leadership Roles That Cannot Wait

Explore More Recruitment Agencies

Frequently Asked Questions

What is retained search and how does it differ from contingency recruitment?

When is retained search the right approach for an organisation?

What does the retained search process typically involve?

How are retained search fees typically structured?

What guarantees do retained search firms typically offer on their placements?