Executive Search – C-level leaders and key executives
We conduct Executive Search and Direct Search processes for companies in Poland and Europe, recruiting leaders responsible for key areas of the business—from operations and finance to sales, technology, and organizational transformation.
We have particular expertise in the manufacturing, industrial, technology, and logistics sectors, though we also carry out projects for organizations in other industries.
What Is Executive Search?
For over 20 years, we have been helping companies in Poland and Europe recruit leaders who can guide their organizations through growth, restructuring, international expansion, transformation, and CAPEX investment projects.
In our executive search processes, we do not limit ourselves to analyzing a candidate’s professional experience. We also assess the candidate’s fit with the business context, organizational culture, and the results for which they will be responsible.
When does Executive Search make the most sense?
Executive Search is particularly effective in situations such as:
Are you looking for a leader responsible for specific business results—EBITDA, P&L, OEE, or operational efficiency —but standard job postings attract candidates without real-world experience in the relevant environment (e.g., managing a production facility, a logistics network, or a service organization)?
You need to replace a member of the board of directors or a plant manager, but the process must remain completely confidentialto the organization and the market.
If a position needs to be filled immediately, the organization can utilize support in the form of Interim Management.
The best managers rarely actively look for a job. We reach passive candidates who are willing to consider a change only in the context of a specific business project.
You need a leader capable of building a team, launching new production lines or stabilizing operations in a growing plant.
Failure to recruit at the director level can mean months of investment delays, decreased production efficiency and destabilization of the team.
That is why in Executive Search processes we present 3-6 carefully selected candidates, instead of a large number of random resumes.
Your company is undergoing a succession process, a change in ownership, or the preparation of a successor for a key management position. You need a leader who can seamlessly take on the responsibility while maintaining the organization’s stability and the team’s trust.
Why Stalwart Manacus?
Executive Search vs. Direct Search—How Do They Differ?
Executive Search
A method for directly recruiting C-level executives, management personnel, and key experts who are of strategic importance to the organization.
The process includes in-depth market research, directly reaching out to candidates, candidate selection, and assisting the client in finalizing the process.
Process time:
first profiles of candidates usually within 7-14 business days.
Direct Search
A method of actively reaching professionals and middle managers outside the open labor market.
It works especially well for:
- rare technical competence
- high confidentiality of the process
- limited time for recruitment
Process time:
first profiles of candidates usually within 5-7 business days.
Sectors in which we have particular expertise
Most frequently cast roles
Plant Manager
Operations Director
Production Director
Quality Director
Maintenance Manager
Supply Chain Director
Procurement Manager
Logistics Director
Finance
CFO
Finance Director
Controlling Manager
HR Director
HR Business Partner
Board of Directors
CEO
COO
CFO
What does the executive search process look like?
- business context analysis,
- Definition of KPIs and responsibilities,
- Defining a strategy for reaching the market.
- Identifying candidates in competitive organizations,
- Direct contact with passive candidates,
- An overview of our candidate base and networking activities.
- In-depth interviews with candidates,
- verification of operational experience,
- assessing fit with the organization.
For projects of particular importance to the organization, we include an additional stage Assessment Center, which allows us to evaluate how well a candidate’s management style aligns with the role’s business challenges, the organizational culture, and the team.
- Presentation of 3–6 candidates
- negotiation support
- coordination of the start of work
How much does a recruitment error cost at the director level?
- Decline in OperationalEfficiency An ineffective leader can lead to a decline in production efficiency and an increase in production costs.
- CAPEX Investment Delays A wrong hiring decision can result in months of investment delays.
- Loss of Key Employees A change in management style often leads to the departure of experienced managers and specialists.
- The Cost of Hiring Replacements An organization often loses 6–12 months of operational stability.
FAQ
What is Executive Search?
Executive Search is a method of directly recruiting executives and key leaders, based on market analysis, the identification of suitable candidates, and confidential, direct contact. This method also makes it possible to reach managers who are not actively looking for a new job.
How does Executive Search differ from standard recruitment?
In standard recruitment, a significant portion of candidates are sourced through job postings and applications. Executive search relies primarily on actively reaching out to carefully selected candidates, many of whom are not currently on the open job market. The process also involves market mapping and an in-depth assessment of how well a candidate fits a specific business context.
How does Executive Search differ from Direct Search?
Both methods involve reaching out directly to candidates. Executive Search focuses primarily on C-level positions and key executive roles, while we also use Direct Search to recruit specialists and mid-level managers with hard-to-find skills.
How long does the Executive Search process take?
We usually present the first profiles of candidates within 7-14 working days, and the whole process usually takes 6-10 weeks.
Is the process confidential?
Yes. Executive Search projects are conducted under a model of full confidentiality.
How many candidates do you present in the process?
Usually 3-6 carefully selected candidates.
Do you implement international projects?
Yes, we recruit in the CEE, DACH and EMEA regions.
Do you offer a guarantee for your executive search services?
Yes. For Executive Search engagements, we offer a 6–12-month guarantee, depending on the position level and project terms.
Not sure where to start?
During a brief conversation, we’ll get to know your situation and work together to determine the best solution for your business.
