Executive Search Performance Benchmark Report

Hiring trends have shifted dramatically over the last four years—from pandemic-era freezes to post-pandemic surges, and from massive downsizing to cautious growth.

Amid all those changes, it can be difficult for boutique firms to know what constitutes good or great firm performance within the executive search industry as a whole. That’s why it’s so important to look at industry-wide averages on an ongoing basis, so you can put the peaks and valleys of your firm’s performance into the proper context.

To help you do just that, we’ve analyzed performance data from over 100,000 anonymized retained Executive Search projects conducted between 2020 and 2023, across all industries and specializations.

What you'll learn:

  • How long retained search projects have taken on average and the likelihood they will be successful
  • The key performance metrics that measure effectiveness and efficiency
  • How various drivers like location, industry, or function can affect search projects
  • How both search firms and their clients can use this information to better align expectations and improve their chances of a successful project
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Key features of the 2020 - 2023 report

Executive Search firms and their clients can compare the performance of their search projects to global averages, and create a common understanding of what great search looks like in the current state of the market, based on real data.

Benchmark data

With data collected over 4 years, we have uncovered the leading metrics and charted industry-wide performance.

Wide-ranging results

Our data experts have analyzed performance from over 100,000 anonymized projects to bring you averages that reflect every corner of the industry.

Thought leadership

We have undertaken the world’s largest and leading empirical study of Executive Search firm performance.

Full transparency

The data, analysis, insights, and advice provided in this report are independent and transparent.

Take your firm from good to great.

Beat your competition, win loyal clients, and improve your performance over time with Clockwork.
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