In a landmark move, the International Executive Search Federation (IESF) has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to standardize executive search processes across its global network. This comes after an intensive collaborative effort culminating in a unanimous agreement among partners during the 2023 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Singapore. The newly adopted unified global quality search process is a testament to IESF’s commitment to excellence, consistency, and the highest ethical standards in executive search. The International Executive Search Federation (IESF) proudly announces a groundbreaking stride in executive search excellence with the establishment of a unified global quality search process. This strategic move, agreed upon by all IESF partners, ensures a harmonized approach to executive search across the globe, setting new standards in service delivery and operational efficiency.
A closer look at the unified process
The agreed-upon process delineates a structured approach to executive search, encompassing four key stages:
- Preparation and Initial Consultation
- The process begins with a thorough agreement on the IESF search proposal, ensuring a retained and exclusive approach.
- Partners engage in in-depth discussions with clients to understand their unique needs, objectives, and requirements for the role, facilitating a well-defined search strategy.
- Market research and consultations with stakeholders are conducted to develop a comprehensive position specification document and compensation package.
- Search Process
- A detailed job description is prepared, and a wide-reaching search for both passive and active candidates is initiated.
- Through extensive research and local sourcing methodologies, potential candidates are identified and rigorously evaluated. This evaluation includes resume reviews, professional accomplishments assessments, in-depth interviews, and comprehensive reference and background checks.
- Introduction to the Client
- A shortlist of qualified candidates, accompanied by comprehensive evaluation reports, is presented to the client.
- The client conducts interviews to further assess the candidates’ compatibility and potential contributions.
- IESF partners facilitate the interview process, providing support and coordination as needed.
- Completion of the Assignment
- The negotiation of the compensation package and terms of employment is mediated by IESF partners.
- Ongoing support, including reference checking and due diligence, is provided to ensure a smooth integration of the selected candidate.
Throughout each stage, IESF firms adhere to quality standards that emphasize care, respect, and proactive communication with candidates. This includes substantiated and carefully communicated decisions, personal confirmations at various stages, and continuous engagement with both candidates and clients.
Implications and benefits
Gertjan van de Groep, President of IESF: “The decision to standardize the search process underscores IESF’s dedication to fostering best practices and ethical standards within the executive search industry. It not only streamlines operations across our global network but also reinforces IESF’s position as a leader in executive search, dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of businesses and talent worldwide. For our clients, this means access to a seamless, high-caliber executive search experience, no matter where in the world they are located. For our candidates, it ensures a thoughtful, respectful, and effective journey towards their next career milestone. And for our partners, it represents a commitment to excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.”
Looking ahead
As IESF continues to navigate the complexities of global executive search, this unified quality search process stands as a beacon of the federation’s dedication to leadership, innovation, and ethical practice. It is a bold step forward in IESF’s mission to connect organizations with visionary leaders, shaping the future of work across industries and borders.
Stay tuned to IESF.com and our LinkedIn page for further insights into how this enhanced approach is transforming executive search practices worldwide.
