Executive Search and Advisory

Source and develop exceptional permanent and interim C-suite and senior leadership talent, delivering immediate impact and shaping your organisation’s future success.

Discuss executive search

Why organisations choose Hays Executive Search 

 


Choosing the right leader is one of the most pivotal decisions an organisation can make.
Hays Executive Search partners with boards and senior leadership teams to secure leaders who can deliver today and shape the future.

  • Enhance your access to skills and expertise

    Get unrivalled access to a network of future-ready leaders, equipped with the in-demand skills and personal competencies required to drive innovation across your organisation and deliver sustainable results. 

  • Deliver long-term strategic fit

    Use advanced methodologies – including psychometric testing, leadership assessment, and bespoke evaluation frameworks – to ensure senior appointments align with your strategy and stakeholder expectations.

  • Build more diverse senior teams

    Enable equitable hiring outcomes and encourage the formation of diverse boards and leadership teams through a structured, evidence-based assessment process. 

Executive Search in action

 


Explore case studies demonstrating our executive search expertise in complex environments.

  • Operating at global scale

    Several professionals in conversation in a modern office environment, representing collaboration within an international business setting.

    Supporting a world‑leading semiconductor organisation to navigate leadership complexity and establish greater consistency across a global workplace.

    Read the case study

  • Transformation at pace

    Two professionals standing and speaking inside a large, contemporary public building with open seating and wood‑panelled ceilings.

    Working with a major NHS trust to strengthen executive leadership and sustain momentum during a period of regulatory scrutiny and organisational change.

    Read the case study

  • Inclusive executive leadership

    Two professionals seated in discussion in a formal indoor setting, illustrating senior‑level engagement within a public‑sector environment.

    Broadening access to senior leadership and securing a Chief Executive aligned to the complex governance requirements of a historic UK authority.

    Read the case study

Your senior leadership search starts here

Hays Executive Search specialises in connecting organisations with senior professionals who thrive in complex environments and can lead with confidence at board and executive level.

Our specialist consultants bring deep sector and functional expertise, working closely with you to understand your strategic goals, assess leadership needs, and deliver C‑suite and board‑level candidates equipped to perform under pressure.

Beyond appointment, our post‑placement support and leadership development focus help every new leader deliver from day one, continue to grow, and remain ready for what’s next.

Our approach is underpinned by a strong commitment to responsible business practices. As a market leader in ESG and social impact, we integrate environmental, social and governance considerations into every executive search assignment, supporting sustainable leadership and long‑term organisational value.

Discover the leadership insights shaping 2026

The 2026 Hays UK Salary Guide delivers the salary data and market insight senior leaders need to make informed decisions in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Our Executive Search service lines

  • Our executive search services support organisations at every stage of the leadership lifecycle - from appointment and interim cover to assessment, development and succession planning.
     

    • Executive Search (permanent and interim) 
    • Executive Interim Management 
    • Executive Assessment & Development (A&D) 
    • Leadership Development 
    • Executive Career Transition 
    • Pay & Reward Benchmarking 
    • DE&I Advisory 

     

    Find your next leader

Functional expertise

We hire, advise and train across the full spectrum of senior leadership roles and functions. Whether you’re looking to hire an interim CFO, line up your next permanent CIO, or upskill an entire leadership team, you can trust us to deliver.

 

Some of the key functions we specialise in include:

  • Board and chairs
  • Chief executives and C-suite
  • Finance
  • Technology
  • HR
  • Property

Sector expertise

Hays are approved providers across a host of Public Service framework providers including CCS, LGRP, Cirrus, Commercial Services Group, ESPO, SUPC and others.

  • Public Services

    • Local government
    • Central government
    • Health
    • Education

  • Not-for-Profit

    • Charities
    • Membership bodies
    • Housing associations
    • Social enterprise

  • Commerce

    • Technology & AI 
    • Professional services 
    • Financial services 
    • Consumer 
    • Industrial 
    • Real estate 

Executive Search FAQs

An executive search team provides access to a global leadership network, rigorous assessment expertise, and a structured approach to securing senior leaders aligned to your organisation’s strategy and culture.

In today’s volatile and complex environments, effective leaders combine integrity, empathy and sound decision‑making with the ability to adapt, embrace technology and lead through change.

It’s easy to start the search for your next executive hire - simply contact us for a confidential discussion around your requirements.

We’re always looking to improve how we can advise and provide the workforce solutions that deliver on your ambition.

A solution for every workforce challenge

Scale your access to skills 

Circumstances change, priorities shift. Meet every challenge with an agile solution.

Find out how we can help: Talk to Hays

Interested in workforce solutions?

Today's solutions lay the foundation for pursuing tomorrow's opportunities. Aided by technology and automation, we make managing complex talent needs simpler and easier.

Let's talk

Ready to hire? Let's get started

Whether it's short-notice temporary support or long-term employees, we'll find the perfect fit to drive your organisation forward. Partner with us to access the talent you need to succeed.

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Market insights from Hays

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