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Executive Search

Big plans need the right people: the ones who spark ideas, lift teams and drive things forward. The game-changers and the steady hands. The visionaries who see what’s next and know how to get there.

What you can expect

Finding the right leader in an ever-competitive marketplace can be tough. Our specialist executive search team has over 30 years’ combined experience, and an in-depth understanding of management structures and market trends, that enable us to identify exceptional leaders.

Oyster consultants will collaborate with you to create and execute a comprehensive hiring strategy, to identify the very best candidates in the market. This gives you an insight into the challenges of the market, and advice on the leadership skills your organisation needs.

Executive search can be a time consuming and intensive process, but Oyster manages the entire process, so you can continue with business as usual. Our searches have a 98% success rate, and take eight weeks on average to complete.

Data is at the heart of everything we do. From the initial client briefing to the final placement, we gather, analyse and interpret market insight to drive the search: uncovering trends, identifying emerging talent and making sure every decision is credible.

Our process

  1. 01PreparationWe take time to thoroughly understand your business and team: researching staff profiles, meeting leadership and junior staff to capture the culture and goals, and writing inclusive job briefs. We identify what sets you apart, create a candidate brochure and, where needed, agree a marketing campaign across written, audio and video. We agree timeframes and interview schedules, and benchmark salary and reward structures.
  2. 02Market mappingWe research competitors and map relevant firms to build a comprehensive talent pool. Using LinkedIn, our curated database and referrals, we target potential candidates, including untapped talent. Our existing network is our strongest asset, and we give you access to it.
  3. 03Engagement and assessmentWe use marketing, headhunting and the candidate brochure to engage candidates, then assess skills, qualifications and commitment through interviews, off the record references and pre-screening assessments. Every candidate goes through a rigorous vetting process.
  4. 04PresentationDetailed candidate packs with CVs, experience matrices and suitability letters, with anonymised shortlists if you prefer. We meet to present the finalised shortlist, with a market report on the search and its findings.
  5. 05SuccessWe manage the interview, offer and resignation process for a smooth appointment on all sides. A lengthy guarantee period lets you assess the appointment, with our guidance at every stage.

Testimonials


Oyster genuinely understands the nuances of the social housing sector, which means their recruitment approach is aligned to what organisations in this space actually need.
Andrew MeyerCEO, Solo Housing
Oyster takes the time to understand what your whole organisation is trying to achieve and how your culture operates, and they do this consistently, not just when there’s a role to fill.
Linda WallaceCEO, PHA Homes
When I’ve been hiring, the Oyster team has consistently delivered high-quality candidates. When I was considering my own next move, they presented relevant opportunities and had open, honest conversations with me, enabling me to make a genuinely informed decision.
Andy ChequersHead of Housing (Interim), Housing for Women
We were given access to the best candidates the market offered, clear communication was provided throughout, and a full analysis of the hiring round was given.
Ben ChislettChief Operating Officer

Let’s get you there

Looking for the leader to move your organisation forward, or a leadership role that matches your ambition? Let’s talk.