Executive search questions, answered.

Retained executive search is an exclusive, mandate-based approach to senior recruitment. Unlike contingency recruitment — where multiple agencies race to fill a role — a retained search firm works on an exclusive basis with a dedicated team, rigorous methodology, and full market coverage. You pay a retainer fee in stages, and the firm commits its resources entirely to your search. This model is standard for C-suite, VP, and Director-level positions where confidentiality, quality, and thoroughness matter most.

A typical retained executive search takes 8 to 12 weeks from briefing to accepted offer. The first 2-3 weeks focus on market mapping and candidate identification. Weeks 3-6 involve candidate approach and assessment. Weeks 6-10 cover shortlist presentation and interviews. The final phase includes offer negotiation and onboarding support. Timelines can vary depending on role complexity, market scarcity, and client decision-making speed. At Audacity Talent, we present an initial shortlist within 38 days on average.

Retained executive search fees are typically calculated as 25-33% of the placed candidate's first-year total compensation (base salary plus bonus). The fee is usually paid in three instalments: one-third at launch, one-third at shortlist presentation, and one-third on successful placement. This structure aligns the firm's incentives with yours and ensures dedicated resources throughout the process. For a confidential discussion about fees for your specific search, please contact us directly.

We specialise in six core sectors: Finance (CFO, Finance Director, Head of Audit, Tax Director), Legal (General Counsel, Legal Director, Head of Compliance), HR (CHRO, HR Director, Head of Talent Acquisition), Corporate Functions (COO, Chief of Staff, Head of Strategy), Media and Advertising (Managing Director, Head of Strategy, Creative Director), and Consulting (Partner, Director, Principal). We also recruit for Executive Functions (CEO, Managing Director) and Non-Executive Director roles across all sectors.

Three things set us apart. First, we are a boutique firm — every search is led personally by the founding partner, not delegated to junior researchers. Second, we operate on a 100% retained basis, which means full commitment and no conflicts of interest. Third, our 96% completion rate speaks to our methodology: rigorous market mapping, deep candidate assessment, and transparent communication throughout. We combine the reach of a large firm with the personal attention of a specialist partner.

Yes. While we are based in Paris and deeply embedded in the French market, we regularly conduct searches across Europe. Our network spans the UK, Germany, Switzerland, Benelux, the Nordics, and Southern Europe. For senior roles that require international profiles or cross-border experience, our European reach is a significant advantage. We also support French companies recruiting abroad and international companies entering the French market.

We focus exclusively on senior leadership positions: C-suite executives (CEO, CFO, CHRO, General Counsel), Vice Presidents, Directors, and other senior management roles. We also handle Non-Executive Director and board-level appointments. Our methodology is designed for positions where the impact of a hiring decision is strategic and the cost of a wrong choice is significant. We do not handle mid-level or volume recruitment.

Confidentiality is fundamental to our work. All searches are conducted under strict discretion. We never disclose a client's identity to candidates without prior approval. We never share candidate information without their explicit consent. Non-disclosure agreements are available and routinely used for sensitive mandates. Our retained model eliminates the risk of your vacancy being broadcast to the market, which is particularly important for replacement searches, strategic hires, and board-level appointments.