Working with Advice & Executive Search: A 2026 Career Guide
Advice & Executive Search (AES) is a Belgium-based executive search firm specializing in high-level placements within the consulting and business services sectors. They act as a strategic partner for senior professionals, focusing on matching specific leadership talent with organizational needs. Candidates should prioritize building a long-term relationship with their consultants to access unadvertised executive opportunities.
Who pays Advice & Executive Search - (AES - A&ES)
Retained by the employer, not by you.
Advice & Executive Search - (AES - A&ES) is paid by the hiring company, often on retainer before anyone is placed. They are working one specific mandate for that company, not managing your search.
What that means for you
Being wrong for this mandate is not a verdict on you. Stay reachable for the next one, and be straight about salary and timing so you are not shortlisted for a brief you would turn down.
2
Sectors we track
Global
Presence
Source: JobMentis Agency Directory, 29,247 agencies across 102 markets, 2026.
Their side
Sectors
What sectors and roles does Advice & Executive Search focus on?
AES concentrates exclusively on the consulting and business services industries. They specialize in identifying and placing senior-level talent, including management consultants, operational leaders, and specialized business service experts. Their focus is on roles that require deep industry knowledge and a proven track record of delivering value within professional services environments.
Where you meet
How does the executive search process work for candidates?
The process begins with a confidential assessment of your career trajectory and professional goals. If your profile aligns with an active mandate, a consultant will conduct an in-depth interview to evaluate your fit for the specific client requirements. Throughout the process, AES acts as a bridge, managing the communication flow, salary negotiations, and interview scheduling between you and the hiring organization.
What should I expect once I engage with the agency?
Engagement with an executive search firm is typically high-touch but selective, meaning communication occurs primarily when there is a relevant opportunity. You should expect a professional cadence that respects your current employment status and maintains strict confidentiality. Remember that the hiring company pays the agency fee, so there is never a cost to you as a candidate.
Your side
How can I get on the radar of AES consultants?
To capture the attention of AES, ensure your CV highlights specific project outcomes and measurable impact within consulting or business services. Use industry-standard terminology that reflects your expertise in these sectors. Proactively reaching out to their consultants with a brief, tailored message about your career transition goals is more effective than submitting a generic application through a portal.
Is Advice & Executive Search the right fit for my job search?
AES is an excellent partner if you are a senior professional or consultant looking for a career move within the Belgian business services market. However, if you are seeking entry-level roles or positions outside of consulting and business services, you may find more success with generalist recruitment agencies. Their model is built for long-term career management rather than rapid, high-volume job placement.
How to work with Advice & Executive Search - (AES - A&ES): candidate playbook
- Tailor your CV to emphasize specific consulting project results.
- Connect with AES consultants on LinkedIn with a personalized note.
- Maintain a clear record of which roles they have presented to you.
- Be transparent about your notice period and current compensation expectations.
- Request a brief introductory call to discuss your long-term career goals.
Frequently asked questions
Should I apply for a role directly if I am also working with AES?
It is generally best to coordinate with your AES consultant first. If you apply directly to a company they are representing, it can create administrative conflicts that may complicate your candidacy.
What happens to my personal data once I submit my CV?
Your data is stored in their secure internal database for consideration against current and future mandates. AES is bound by GDPR regulations, meaning they cannot share your profile with a potential employer without your explicit consent for each specific role.
How should I follow up if I have not heard back after an interview?
Wait at least one week before sending a concise, professional follow-up email to your primary contact. Executive search timelines are often longer than standard recruitment, so a single polite inquiry is sufficient to demonstrate continued interest.
Can I register with multiple executive search firms simultaneously?
Yes, it is common practice for senior professionals to maintain relationships with several specialized firms. Just ensure you keep track of which agency has submitted your profile to which company to avoid duplicate representations.
Applying through Advice & Executive Search - (AES - A&ES)?
Track the role, tailor your CV to the real employer, and prep for the interview with JobMentis.
Start freeRecruiting agencies in Belgium
Keep going
General guidance for candidates. JobMentis is not affiliated with the agencies listed.