When failure is not an option, ICX Group’s Retained Search provides the exhaustive rigor, market intelligence, and executive discretion required to secure the top 1% of leadership talent
What is a Retained Executive Search?
Retained search is a strategic, exclusive partnership designed to secure top-tier leadership through exhaustive market mapping and active engagement.
Our most experienced recruiters use a combination of active and passive methods to identify “off-market” talent, providing the flexibility to be creative and persistent where traditional methods fall short. By maintaining a direct line of communication and adhering to strict ethical standards, we ensure every search is compliant, discreet, and aligned with your long-term ROI.
Traditional recruitment relies on who is looking; our Retained Search identifies who is leading. By combining exhaustive market intelligence with a dedicated consultant model, we provide the specialized infrastructure required to secure transformative C-Suite talent and ensure long-term organizational alignment.
Great leadership is rarely found on a job board. We conduct a deep-dive analysis to locate the "off-market" leaders currently driving success at top-tier organizations. We open doors to elite talent that standard recruitment methods cannot reach.
Beyond technical skills, we assess for cultural alignment, EQ, and strategic vision. You receive a curated shortlist of candidates who have been deeply scrutinized before the first interview.
We are so confident in our methodology that we offer a replacement guarantee. We aren't just filling a seat; we are securing your long-term ROI.
A rigorous, data-driven approach to de-risking your most important leadership transitions.
01
Aligning on the strategic objectives, culture, and the ‘DNA’ of the ideal leader.
02
Exhaustive mapping of the competitor landscape and passive talent pools.
03
Deep behavioral interviews and preliminary reference checks to ensure fit.
04
Presentation of the top 3–5 ‘Gold Standard’ candidates with detailed dossiers.
05
Strategic offer navigation and post-placement support to ensure a seamless transition.
“Retained search is more than a hire; it is a strategic investment in the stability and future leadership of your organization.”
We move beyond standard recruitment to act as a seamless extension of your executive team.
We value long-term partnerships over short-term gains. While under a retained agreement, we provide a total ‘Off-Limits’ guarantee—we will never headhunt from your organization, protecting your internal talent while we build your leadership team.
Replacing an incumbent or entering a new market requires absolute discretion. We are experts in ‘stealth’ searches, managing highly confidential outreach and vetting processes without alerting the market or your competitors.
Partner with our Retained Search experts to identify and land top-tier executive talent. We combine deep industry intelligence with a rigorous methodology to ensure a perfect fit for your culture and long-term vision.
We align our search intensity with the strategic importance of your hire.
| Search Level | Contingent | Contained | Retained |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engagement | Non-Exclusive | Exclusive Priority | Total Partnership |
| Fee Structure | 100% Success-Based | Performance-Weighted | Structured Retainer |
| Deliverables | Resume Submissions | Verified Shortlist | Comprehensive Dossiers |
| Market Reach | Network-Driven | Targeted Sourcing | Exhaustive Market Mapping |
| Typical Roles | Staffing to Mid-Level | Manager to Director | VP to C-Suite |
|
Executive Tier
For mission-critical leadership mandates. |
|||
Why choose Retained Search? For mission-critical leadership transitions, the Retained model provides the highest level of commitment and market transparency. This dedicated mandate ensures your organization receives priority access to every corner of the talent market, supported by a rigorous vetting process and a comprehensive search strategy that guarantees a successful leadership hire.
The difference between a “filled role” and a “transformed organization” is the quality of the search. Let’s discuss how our retained methodology
de-risks your leadership transitions.
Confidentiality guaranteed. Total Off-Limits protection applies to all retained partnerships.
Our clients understand that hiring the best and brightest results in a competitive advantage. Leveraging our Big 4 heritage, we identify candidates whose core values align perfectly with your organizational intricacies.
