Source: Cluen – “2025 Top Trends in Executive Search” (www.cluen.com)
As we move toward 2026, the executive search industry is entering a new phase of digital maturity. According to Cluen’s 2025 White Paper, technology is no longer a support tool—it has become the foundation on which leading firms are building new business models. Artificial Intelligence, automation, and integrated data systems are reshaping how executive search firms deliver speed, accuracy, and value to clients worldwide.
The Rise of Generative AI: From Experiment to Infrastructure
In 2025, 91% of executive search firms report using at least one major Large Language Model (LLM) such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, or Google Gemini—up from 78% the previous year. The industry has shifted from “experimenting with AI” to integrating it into every step of the search process.
Key AI applications include:
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Candidate write-ups (73%)
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Role description writing (69%)
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Business development research (55%)
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Interview prep and progress reporting (34%+)
This adoption reflects a growing understanding that AI can enhance—not replace—human expertise. It’s now seen as essential infrastructure for delivering personalized outreach, data-driven insights, and faster results.
Automation and Efficiency at Scale
The survey highlights a clear focus on workflow automation to reduce administrative workload and improve accuracy. Tasks like online research, reporting, and interview scheduling are increasingly automated. Integration tools such as LinkedIn’s NIXZ plug-in, SourceWhale, and Noon.ai are helping firms synchronize outreach, sourcing, and candidate data in one platform—transforming the search process into a centralized, efficient ecosystem.
Balancing Technology with Ethics and Governance
While enthusiasm for AI grows, 73% of firms still report ethical or practical concerns, particularly around data privacy, bias, and overreliance on AI summaries. Encouragingly, more than half of firms now have an AI policy in place or under development. The report notes that with the introduction of the EU AI Act, recruiters must build both technical and ethical literacy to ensure compliance and maintain client trust. IESF already worked together with all the global partners to align on our IESF AI Act statement, which demonstrates how our partners align with this legislation and are fully transparent about parts of the process that include the use of AI. Our IESF AI Act will be published next week.
Smarter Business Development
Another key shift: 70% of firms now manage their business development (BD) directly within their search platforms, compared to less than 20% using generic CRMs or spreadsheets. Centralizing BD within the executive search database gives firms real-time insights into relationships, opportunities, and revenue forecasting—turning data into strategic advantage.
Client Reporting Goes Digital
Automation is also transforming client communication. Many firms now use web-based reporting portals that offer secure, real-time access to progress data. This approach eliminates the need for manual report generation, enhances transparency, and strengthens client engagement.
What This Means for the Industry
Cluen’s findings reveal an industry in transition—from adopting technology to mastering it. Firms that leverage AI and automation responsibly are not just keeping pace; they are setting new standards in responsiveness, insight, and client value.
For international networks like IESF, these insights confirm what our partners are already experiencing: the next phase of executive search will depend on the balance between intelligent technology and human judgment. Those who combine both will lead the way.