For the hires that define your success
We lead your executive search using The Predictive Index® and our Recruitment Optimisation Framework
When a hire matters more than most
In executive search, every decision carries weight. The vacancy is visible across the organisation. The longer it remains open, the greater the strain on delivery, investors, and teams waiting for direction.
Leaders feel it first. Deadlines slip. Projects pause. Progress slows while attention shifts from strategy to damage control. The absence of one critical hire starts to affect everything that depends on them.
Expectations differ between stakeholders, priorities shift, and messages to the market lose focus. Recruiters chase speed, not substance. Strong candidates see uncertainty and step away.
When the role is this visible, every delay costs more than time. It tests credibility, influence, and the ability to lead with control.
Why more leaders are turning to retained search
Retained search is a partnership built on ownership and accountability. We lead the search as an extension of your leadership team and take responsibility for the outcome. Every project follows our Recruitment Optimisation Framework with The Predictive Index®. This aligns each stage to your business goals and keeps decision-makers working to the same definition of success.
You gain a single point of accountability, fewer distractions, and steady progress from the first brief to onboarding. The appointment supports delivery, protects time, and strengthens your standing across the organisation.
When retained search is the right choice
Retained search is used when a role demands focus, reach, and accountability. It suits situations where the appointment affects performance, delivery, or reputation.
Critical roles
When a position is central to strategy or delivery, retained search provides the depth and control needed to secure the right leader.
challenging markets
When qualified candidates are scarce or already employed, retained search maps the market and engages people who are not active in it.
Confidential appointments
When a hire requires discretion. Whether replacing a senior leader or entering a new market, retained search manages the process with control and care.
Stalled searches
When advertising or contingency recruitment has failed, retained search rebuilds the brief, the message, and the reach to deliver results.
Recruiters who work on a retained basis fill over 90% of the roles they take on.
Contingent recruiters typically fill less than 1 in 5.
That’s the difference a committed partnership makes.
How our retained search works
Retained search gives leaders full ownership of the hiring process. Every project is led personally and guided by our Recruitment Optimisation Framework, supported by The Predictive Index®. Together they connect recruitment decisions to business goals and ensure every hire delivers measurable results.
Each search follows a defined methodology that combines structured analysis with targeted market engagement. It gives you visibility at every stage and protects the outcome from the risks of rushed or reactive hiring.
1. Align
We start by understanding what success looks like in the role and how it supports your strategy. This includes reviewing goals, team structure, and leadership expectations. We use The Predictive Index® Job Assessment to define behavioural and cognitive benchmarks, creating the standard every candidate is measured against.
2. Attract
We build a targeted search strategy based on market insight and behavioural data. This includes detailed research, competitor mapping, and direct engagement with individuals who align with the success profile. Every conversation represents your organisation professionally.
3. Assess
Each candidate is evaluated against the agreed profile using The Predictive Index® Behavioural and Cognitive Assessments, supported by structured interviews and reference validation. This ensures decisions are based on data and performance potential, not first impressions.
4. Advance
Once the preferred candidate is appointed, we support integration and onboarding. The Predictive Index® Relationship and Team tools guide early collaboration and help managers adapt their approach, ensuring a faster impact and stronger retention.
We Have Worked With
Our retained partnership
We help leaders make recruitment decisions they can stand behind. We apply The Predictive Index® through strategic recruitment support to solve the real business challenges behind hiring. Whether you’re defining a role, assessing candidates, or improving how your team hires, we make sure every decision supports performance, culture, and growth.
Employer branding
We build your brand story and take it to market and attract the best talent.
Full market reach
We map the market, research target lists, and approach high performers who are not applying. You see a complete shortlist without repeat name
Evidence based selection
We set a job target and evaluate candidates with The Predictive Index® and structured interviews. Decisions rest on evidence that links the person to the work to be done.
Ready to recruit?
1. Schedule an appointment
Book a meeting with our Founder, Dave Crumby
2. Talent Discovery session
We sit down virtually with you to better understand your unique business needs, culture, and vision for the future.
3. Talent strategy agreement
You receive a clear plan, with the right tools and support to make it work.
Hear from those making better hiring decisions
Attracting the right talent when you are building a business from scratch and setting a new subsidiary in a very competitive environment looks like a mission impossible! Dave supported us very actively and quickly and the result has been “bang on” really ! A true professional!
GM France & Belgium
Exeltis
Dave is a sound professional and commits fully and openly to our requirements across Europe. I approached him with a challenging role and was impressed with his understanding of the market. I highly recommend Dave.
Talent Acquisition Manager
Shire
Working with Dave was a great experience. His professional approach to the job search challenge was exceptional. It was clear that Dave fully understands our exact needs in terms of competency and cultural fit. Very highly recommended!
Brand Director
DIA
Working together
Every retained search starts with a conversation. We discuss the role, the challenges behind it, and what success needs to look like.
Once we agree on scope, we outline the timeline, milestones, and responsibilities. You know what will happen, when, and how progress will be reported.
Throughout the search, you work directly with our founder, not account managers. Communication is open, reporting is structured, and decisions are made with evidence, not opinion.
Our involvement continues beyond appointment to support onboarding and ensure the hire delivers lasting impact.
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