Executive Search
When it comes to filling C-level, executive, or other mission-critical leadership roles, resumes and "hard facts" aren't the only things that matter. Crucial factors are experience, trust, timing – and the intuition needed to truly match people and organizations. This is precisely where executive search comes in: discreet, structured, with a clear process, and simultaneously with an eye for the essential, unspoken meaning.
fortalent supports you in the DACH region (Vienna, Munich, Zurich) as a boutique partner for strategic recruiting – from A to Z, from defining the job profile to securing the offer. You receive not only a comprehensive market overview and a vetted shortlist, but also project management, communication, and consulting services from a single source. Because especially when the role is critical to the overall success of the company and many candidates meet basic criteria such as education, experience, and industry knowledge, the wheat is separated from the chaff: leadership maturity, shared values, decisiveness, cultural fit, and a proven track record of success become the differentiating factors.
How we understand Executive Search
We combine senior-led, end-to-end advisory with a modern, pragmatic approach. No standard routines, no HR jargon—instead: clear decisions, reliable processes, and a search strategy that consistently taps into the hidden job market.
You benefit from:
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Role and context clarity: We translate strategy, organizational reality, and stakeholder expectations into a robust role profile (including must-haves, no-gos, and success criteria).
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Market & talent intelligence: Target company/target function mapping, realistic availability assessments, salary/compensation package benchmarks, and insights into what truly works in the market.
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Discreet direct outreach: Professional, respectful executive-level outreach—backed by thorough pre-qualification and a clear candidate journey.
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Quality-assured selection process: Structured interviews, competency and fit checks, references (where appropriate), and rigorous decision documentation.
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Clear project management: Timeline, status updates, stakeholder alignment, interview coordination, candidate communication, and offer management—everything from one source.
Our approach: structured, fast, reliable
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Kick-off & role profile
Joint briefing, success criteria, stakeholder map, search strategy and communication lines (including level of discretion).
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Search Strategy & Market Mapping
Target company/target function mapping, candidate hypotheses, active sourcing/direct search, ongoing market insights.
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Direct approach & pre-qualification
Discreet contact, reasons for motivation and change, professional and leadership fit, availability, framework conditions.
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Shortlist & Selection
A vetted shortlist with clear recommendations, structured interview processes, optional in-depth assessments/case elements, and references.
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Acceptance & Onboarding Support
Offer management, closing, start timing, support during the transition phase – to ensure the decision actually reaches its goal.
fortalent stands for discretion, seniority, and a focus on outcomes. You work with a single point of contact who manages the project end-to-end – and who, if needed, acts as a sparring partner for management or owners. We use modern tools (including AI) where they deliver real efficiency – for example, in research, talent intelligence, and administration. However, the evaluation and decision-making always remain with the senior consultant: human, responsible, and transparent.
If you are looking to fill a leadership role that “really matters”: Let us clarify in a brief initial consultation what the market looks like, which search strategy is realistic, and how we can cleanly combine timing, stakeholders, and quality.