The Future of Executive Search: Key Hiring Trends

Key findings

AI and Automation elevate, not replace, the human touch in executive search

While AI-driven tools enhance efficiency, precision and data-driven decision-making, Kestria maintains that executive search remains an inherently human process. In fact, 62% of respondents affirm that AI and automation have significantly enhanced efficiency, particularly in candidate sourcing and market intelligence. Our AI Ambassadors Group ensures we leverage the most advanced technologies while keeping deep personal engagement at the core of leadership placements. AI automates tasks like document creation, note summarisation and industry analysis, enabling consultants to focus more on strategic advisory and relationship-building. While AI speeds up processes and boosts accuracy, the human element remains critical to successful executive placements. Kestria leads this evolution, continually integrating the latest AI advancements to stay ahead, while ensuring a personalised, high-touch approach to search.

Sandro Eggimann

Partner, Kestria Switzerland

‘AI-powered tools enhance efficiency in executive search by automating tasks like document creation, note summarization and market, industry and company analysis. These gains allocate more time for personal interactions with clients, stakeholders and candidate communities - an essential element in securing the right leadership placements. At Kestria, we don’t just observe trends – we strategically integrate them into our daily work. The ongoing exchange within our global network, regular group discussions and our digital platform enable us to provide clients with the latest market intelligence. At the same time, they benefit from our extensive network, which not only offers industry insights but also creates platforms where leaders can engage in discussions about the challenges and opportunities of artificial intelligence. AI cannot replace human connections, but it can enhance executive search by making it more precise and strategic. Through data-driven insights and AI-powered matching, recruiters can identify candidates faster and assess their suitability more effectively. However, the final decision remains human - only personal interaction can determine cultural and strategic alignment. Recruiters who leverage AI will outpace those who don’t, which is why at Kestria, we combine cutting-edge technology with human expertise to deliver a more efficient, precise, and value-driven executive search process.’

Strategic leadership requires a strong DEI and cultural fit focus

Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and cultural alignment are no longer optional; they are business imperatives for sustainable leadership. At Kestria, we don’t just support DEI initiatives, we proactively integrate them into every search, leveraging inclusive talent mapping and structured diversity strategies to help clients build leadership teams that reflect their evolving business landscapes. DEI has become a fundamental pillar of executive search, shaping how firms identify and assess leadership talent. Beyond meeting quotas, firms embed DEI through inclusive sourcing, blind resume screening, and diverse shortlists to ensure placements are both diverse and culturally aligned. Cultural fit is now as important as technical expertise, with organisations seeking leaders who align with their values and vision. We ensure diversity is a strategic advantage in securing the best leadership talent.

Raj Kumar Paramanathan

Founding Partner, Kestria Malaysia

‘Incorporating our clients’ DEI priorities begins with a deep understanding of their business strategies, goals and challenges. We assess hiring needs not just through the lens of technical competencies but also by identifying leadership traits essential for achieving their ambitions. Our focus is on attitude and approach, recognizing that cognitive diversity drives business success. While merit remains central, we expand our candidate research to uncover talent beyond conventional sources. Our longlist intentionally reflects diverse candidates and if a specific diversity dimension is underrepresented in the shortlist, we proactively report this in our progress updates, ensuring transparency and accountability.‘

Attracting and engaging passive candidates is an art & science

In a market where top leaders are not actively seeking new roles, the challenge is not just finding talent but winning it over. Kestria’s global reach, deep industry expertise and consultative storytelling approach turn passive candidates into engaged leadership prospects, ensuring organisations secure the best talent before competitors do. Attracting top executives who aren’t actively seeking new opportunities requires more than traditional recruitment methods. Kestria leverages market intelligence, compelling storytelling and personalised engagement to connect with high-calibre talent, particularly in emerging sectors like digital health and cybersecurity, where demand for specialised leadership is growing rapidly. Through deep industry insights and a consultative approach, we ensure clients secure leaders who are not only highly skilled but also aligned with their strategic goals.

Carlos Eduardo Staut

CEO, Kestria Brazil

‘Executive search today isn’t just about identifying leaders – it’s about winning them over in an era where top talent isn’t actively looking. For global leaders, this mirrors a familiar challenge: securing buy-in from stakeholders for critical decisions. Just as they navigate complex global organizations, we navigate international talent markets – leveraging deep local expertise, cultural intelligence, and advanced sourcing strategies to engage and persuade high-caliber executives. At Kestria, we don’t just present candidates; we orchestrate career-defining moves, ensuring our clients secure leaders who drive business impact.’

Executive search is no longer local, it’s global & cross-industry

The increasing globalization of talent pools and the movement of leaders across industries are reshaping executive hiring. With presence in over 40 countries, Kestria enables organisations to think beyond traditional talent pools by tapping into cross-sector leadership expertise, supported by real-time market intelligence. This trend reflects the growing demand for leaders who can drive innovation and manage complex, diverse teams across borders. As industries evolve, so too does the search for executives with versatile skills and global experience. Kestria’s network and market insight allow organisations to stay ahead by identifying and securing top talent that can navigate the ever-changing landscape of business.

The future of executive search

As AI and globalisation continue to reshape executive search, the industry must strike a balance between technological advancement and human expertise. While AI-driven tools enhance efficiency, precision and market intelligence, the ability to assess cultural fit, build relationships and provide strategic advisory remains irreplaceable. Firms that successfully integrate technology while maintaining a high-touch, consultative approach will set the standard for the industry.

Kestria, the world’s largest owner-led executive search alliance, is leading this transformation, combining cutting-edge tools with global collaboration and deep market knowledge. By blending innovation with personalised, high-value engagement, Kestria is shaping the future of executive search, ensuring organisations secure the right leaders to navigate an increasingly complex and dynamic business landscape.

The future of executive search and the trends shaping leadership hiring