For companies with a leadership role
Finding a leader – discreet and targeted
A leadership position needs filling? With leaders, fit, speed and confidentiality matter. Here's how to approach the search.
Typical occasions
Succession
A leader retires or moves on – the successor should be in place before everyone knows.
Growth
A new business unit, location or market needs an experienced lead.
Restructuring
A role is redefined or replaced – nobody internally should know yet.
Key role vacant
Without the leader, decisions stall and the team carries the load.
How the search works
- 1
Role profile
Define tasks, responsibility, team size, experience and salary range.
- 2
Plan confidentiality
Who knows internally, and whether company name and role may be named openly.
- 3
Choose the channel
Your own network, search consultants with direct approach, or an anonymous posting.
- 4
Multi-stage selection
Interviews with decision-makers, a case study or presentation, and references.
- 5
Contract and start
Notice periods for leaders are often long – plan the start early.
What does executive search cost?
Search consultants for leaders usually charge 25 to 35% of the target annual income, often in instalments from the start of the assignment. Recruiters often work on a success basis only.
Checklist for the leadership search
These points decide whether the search succeeds quickly and confidentially.
Clear profile
Few must-haves, clear expectations for the first 12 months.
Competitive package
Compare base salary, bonus and benefits with the market.
Confidentiality
A confidentiality agreement with consultants and clear rules on who learns what.
Check references
Talk to former managers or colleagues – with the candidate's consent.
Timeline
Fixed dates for interviews and the decision – good candidates have alternatives.
Post a leadership role anonymously
On SilentHire you post the position without your company name. Verified recruiters and headhunters propose anonymous candidate profiles, each with their fee. Only those you release contact to learn your name – team and competitors notice nothing.
The platform is free for companies. Costs only arise if you hire through a recruiter – at the fee they state up front.
Frequently asked questions: finding a leader
How do I find the right leader?
With a clear role profile, a competitive package and the right channel. Good leaders rarely search actively; they are usually approached directly.
How long does a leadership search take?
From search to offer often two to four months. On top comes the notice period, which for leaders is often three to six months.
What does a headhunter for leaders cost?
Usually 25 to 35% of the target annual income. In executive search the fee is often due in instalments, partly from the start of the assignment.
Can I fill a leadership role anonymously?
Yes. On SilentHire you post without your company name. Recruiters see the role and framework, but only learn your name once you release contact for a proposal.
How do I keep the search confidential from the team?
By involving only a few people, having consultants sign a confidentiality agreement and posting the role without your company name.
Last reviewed: 7 November 2026