Recruiting Agency

Heidrick & Struggles Executive Search for Senior Leaders

Staffing agency Global · 30Australia heidrick.com

Heidrick & Struggles is a global executive search and leadership advisory firm. They specialize in placing senior executives and board members across various industries in the USA. The most crucial thing for candidates to know is that they primarily work on retained searches for specific, high-level roles.

Who pays Heidrick & Struggles

Paid by the employer, not by you.

Heidrick & Struggles earns a fee from the company that hires you, usually a share of your first-year salary or a margin on your contract rate. Their client is that company.

What that means for you

Expect roles that fit their open vacancies before roles that fit your plan. Ask which company a role is for before your CV goes anywhere, and apply direct where you can.

Sectors we track

Markets we track

Source: JobMentis Agency Directory, 29,247 agencies across 102 markets, 2026.

What kind of roles does Heidrick & Struggles fill?

Heidrick & Struggles focuses exclusively on executive and board-level appointments. This means they recruit for C-suite positions, senior leadership roles, and independent board directors. Their expertise spans across diverse sectors, but the common thread is the seniority and strategic impact of the positions they handle.

Where you meet

How does Heidrick & Struggles's search process work for candidates?

As an executive search firm, Heidrick & Struggles is typically engaged by companies to find specific candidates for open roles. Their process usually begins when a consultant identifies a potential candidate for a search. If you are identified, you will be contacted directly by a consultant to discuss the opportunity and your background. They assess candidates against the specific requirements of the role and the client's needs.

What should I expect once Heidrick & Struggles engages with me?

If Heidrick & Struggles contacts you about a specific role, expect a thorough discussion about your experience, career aspirations, and suitability for the position. Communication will be focused on the particular search they are conducting. They represent the client company, and their goal is to find the best fit for that role. You can expect updates on the search progress as appropriate for the specific assignment.

Your side

How can I get Heidrick & Struggles to consider me?

The most effective way to be considered is to have your profile align with an active search. Ensure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and highlights executive-level experience and leadership achievements. Networking within industries where Heidrick & Struggles is active can also be beneficial, as referrals are often valued. While direct applications are less common for their retained searches, maintaining a strong professional presence is key.

Is Heidrick & Struggles the right agency for my job search?

Heidrick & Struggles is ideal if you are targeting C-suite, board-level, or senior executive positions in the USA. Candidates seeking mid-level or individual contributor roles may not find them to be the best fit. If you are actively exploring senior leadership opportunities and your profile matches their executive search focus, engaging with them can be highly beneficial.

How to work with Heidrick & Struggles: candidate playbook

Ensure your LinkedIn profile reflects executive leadership experience.
Highlight strategic impact and quantifiable achievements.
Network within industries where Heidrick & Struggles is active.
Be prepared for in-depth discussions about your career.
Understand they represent the hiring company, not the candidate.

Frequently asked questions

Does Heidrick & Struggles recruit for board positions?

Yes, Heidrick & Struggles specializes in board appointments. They work with companies to identify and recruit qualified individuals for independent director roles and other board-level positions.

Is Heidrick & Struggles suitable for senior executive candidates?

Absolutely. Heidrick & Struggles's core focus is on executive search, placing candidates in C-suite and senior leadership roles. If you are an experienced executive, your profile may align with their searches.

How long does Heidrick & Struggles's typical search process take?

The duration of an executive search can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the role and client needs. Searches for senior executive and board positions often take several months from initiation to placement.

Do I need to pay Heidrick & Struggles to find me a job?

No, candidates never pay for the services of executive search firms like Heidrick & Struggles. Their fees are paid by the client companies who engage them to fill specific positions.

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