Executive Search Services
Executive search places senior consumer goods leaders through a retained, research-led process, from C-suite to niche functions. Advocate Group secures board and specialist talent across consumer goods, combining deep market mapping with DE&I best practice and a 96% first-year retention rate.
Key Takeaways
Advocate Group runs retained executive search for C-suite, board and specialist leaders across consumer goods, with a 96% first-year retention rate.
Retained search uses an upfront fee, a dedicated consultant and deep market mapping to reach passive leaders, unlike contingency hiring.
Most searches complete in around 28 days, with confidentiality protected by anonymised mapping and NDA-backed briefs.
Executive search for consumer goods leadership
What is executive search?
A retained, research-led process to identify, assess and place senior leaders in specialist consumer goods roles, such as a commercial director. It reaches passive candidates through market mapping and discreet approaches, and covers FMCG alongside food, drinks, beauty and CPG.
How does retained search differ from contingency?
Retained search runs on an upfront fee with guaranteed deliverables and a dedicated consultant; contingency only pays on placement. The upfront commitment funds full mapping, assessment and discreet outreach, which is why retained search suits senior or business-critical roles where a mis-hire carries real cost.
How to choose an executive search firm
Step 1. Check the track record. Ask for recent C-suite and board placements in consumer goods, with retention data, not just a client logo wall.
Step 2. Review the search method. Confirm structured market mapping and discreet passive approaches, and read how the process works and what it costs before you commit.
Step 3. Clarify fees and deliverables. Compare retained and contingency terms, and get fee schedules, milestones and guarantees in writing.
Step 4. Test confidentiality. Ask how they protect sitting executives and your brief, including anonymised approaches and NDA cover.
Why Advocate Group for executive recruitment
What levels does Advocate Group place?
From C-suite and board to niche senior specialists across consumer goods. We embed inclusive practices from sourcing through selection, so shortlists reflect diverse perspectives. A 96% first-year retention rate reflects the depth of assessment behind each placement.
FAQs
How long does an executive search take?
Most executive searches complete in around 28 days, though board and niche roles can run longer. The timeline reflects a staged process of research, mapping, approach, assessment and offer, so senior candidates are engaged carefully rather than rushed. Market scarcity and confidentiality requirements are the main factors that extend it.
How much does executive search cost?
Pricing depends on the model, the seniority of the role and research scope. Retained search carries an upfront fee with guaranteed deliverables, ideal for senior appointments; contingency ties payment to hire, better suiting mid-level roles. Advocate Group provides clear fee schedules and milestones before any search begins.
Which sectors do you cover?
Advocate Group covers consumer goods leadership across food, drinks, beauty, fashion, CPG, health & wellbeing, homeware and toys & games. Each search is run by consultants with sector-specific networks, so shortlists reach passive leaders who rarely appear on job boards. A 96% first-year retention rate reflects that specialist depth.
How do you ensure confidentiality?
Confidential searches use anonymised market mapping, coded role briefs and secure communications, so competitors and current employers never see the approach. Candidates are only named to you once they've agreed to proceed, which protects sitting executives exploring a move. Every engagement can run under NDA where the brief is sensitive.
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Planning a board or C-suite hire? Book a confidential search consultation.