How to work with Steering Point for executive roles in 2026
Steering Point is an Irish executive search firm specializing in leadership placements across consulting, business services, healthcare, and education. They focus on senior-level roles and leadership development. The most important thing to know is that they operate on a retained basis, meaning they proactively hunt for candidates rather than managing open applications.
Who pays Steering Point
Retained by the employer, not by you.
Steering Point 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.
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Source: JobMentis Agency Directory, 29,247 agencies across 102 markets, 2026.
Their side
What sectors and roles does Steering Point focus on?
Steering Point concentrates on senior leadership and executive-level appointments within the consulting, business services, healthcare, and education sectors. They specialize in identifying high-impact leaders capable of driving organizational strategy and operational excellence. Beyond recruitment, they provide assessment and leadership development services to ensure long-term success for both the individual and the hiring organization.
Where you meet
How does the executive search process work for a candidate?
The process begins when Steering Point identifies you as a potential fit for a specific mandate, often through their existing network or targeted research. If you are contacted, you will undergo a series of in-depth discussions to evaluate your leadership style, track record, and alignment with the client's specific needs. If you proceed, they act as your primary advocate, managing the interview stages and negotiating terms on your behalf.
What should I expect once I engage with the firm?
Once you are in an active search process, communication is typically high-touch and focused on the specific role at hand. Steering Point manages the timeline, providing feedback after interviews and preparing you for subsequent rounds. It is important to note that their primary obligation is to the client organization, so transparency regarding your career goals and constraints is essential for a successful partnership.
Your side
How can I get on Steering Point's radar?
Because they work on a retained basis, the most effective way to get noticed is to maintain a high-visibility professional profile that highlights your achievements in consulting or your target sector. Ensure your LinkedIn profile is updated with specific metrics and leadership outcomes rather than just job titles. Networking with peers in the Irish executive space can also lead to referrals, which are highly valued by search consultants.
Is Steering Point the right fit for my career search?
Steering Point is an ideal partner if you are an experienced leader looking for a strategic career move within their core sectors of healthcare, education, or business services. However, if you are seeking entry-level roles or a high-volume application process, this firm will not be the right fit. They are best suited for candidates who value a discreet, consultative approach to executive career transitions.
How to work with Steering Point: candidate playbook
- Update your LinkedIn profile with specific leadership achievements and sector-specific keywords.
- Focus on building relationships with consultants rather than just sending unsolicited CVs.
- Be transparent about your salary expectations and career motivations during the first call.
- Prepare for competency-based interviews by mapping your experience to strategic business outcomes.
- Maintain confidentiality throughout the search process to protect your current professional standing.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays the recruitment fee for an executive search placement?
The hiring organization pays the fee for the search services provided by Steering Point. Candidates never pay for representation or placement services, as the agency is retained by the employer to find the best talent.
What happens to my CV and personal data after I submit it?
Your information is stored in their secure database to be considered for future mandates that match your profile. They are bound by data protection regulations in Ireland and will not share your details with a client without your explicit permission.
Should I apply for roles directly if I am already in contact with Steering Point?
If Steering Point is representing you for a specific role, you should not apply directly to that same company for the same position. Doing so can create administrative confusion and may disqualify you from the agency's representation.
How should I follow up if I have not heard back after an initial conversation?
It is appropriate to send a brief, professional follow-up email after two weeks if you have not received an update. Keep in mind that executive search timelines are often dictated by the client's internal processes, which can sometimes be lengthy.
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