In the world of executive search, the five largest companies that dominate globally are: Spencer Stuart, Heidrick & Struggles, Russell Reynolds, Egon Zehnder, and Korn Ferry, commonly referred to as the "SHREK" firms. All these companies are based in the United States, except for Egon Zehnder (Switzerland). The boards of directors of the largest global companies (Fortune 500) instinctively turn to these organizations when recruiting senior executives. On the other hand, the executive search field also includes several boutique firms that are part of an international network, such as CFR Global Executive Search. While the SHREK firms have a competitive advantage in terms of size, boutique firms stand out in various ways: specialized sector or functional expertise, close client relationships, use of artificial intelligence, or advanced technologies to improve efficiency and speed, among others. So, which approach, or organization will suit you best?
Heidrick & Struggles was founded in 1953 and is headquartered in the US in Chicago, IL. The firm has established itself as a key player in the executive search industry, known for its innovation and leadership advisory services. With 30 offices worldwide, including Heidrick and Struggles Canada, the firm serves a wide range of corporate clients.
In this article, we will take a look at Heidrick and Struggles' approach to executive search, the pros and cons of working with them, and compare them to a more localized firm such as PIXCELL.
Heidrick & Struggles operates through a vast network of offices across the Americas, Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East. Heidrick and Struggles Canada has offices in Toronto, Montreal, and Calgary. Beyond traditional executive search, Heidrick and Struggles also offer a variety of services, including:
Working with an executive search firm is an investment, and you need to work with a partner that understands your business and your unique needs. If you are considering Heidrick and Struggles, you should know the pros and cons of how the firm operates.
Taking the pros and cons into consideration, you may want to consider an executive search firm like PIXCELL, a boutique executive recruitment firm that focuses intensely on your needs.
Heidrick and Struggles specializes in large-scale, enterprise-level executive recruitment and organizational consulting, an executive search firm like PIXCELL offers more adaptable solutions that are more flexible and personalized.
With PIXCELL, you get a customized executive search, tailored to your exact needs. Your search is handled by the firm’s top recruiters and you get direct access to company leadership. This produces a more high-touch approach for greater transparency. As your needs evolve, PIXCELL can adapt its approach to ensure you get the top-tier candidates that align with your goals and culture with experienced recruiters for diverse markets, including:
With offices in Montreal, Toronto, and Quebec, PIXCELL has deep experience in Canadian markets. This local market expertise fosters a more in-depth understanding of the unique needs of Canadian companies and cultures.
However, PIXCELL also has global reach through its partnership with CFR Global Executive Search, a network of leading, independent executive search firms. This provides access to global talent from recruitment professionals with deep roots in their markets.
Heidrick and Struggles can be a good choice for multinational companies that are looking for broad-scale executive talent. However, organizations operating primarily in Canadian markets, particularly in Montreal, Toronto, and Quebec, may find PIXCELL's localized expertise and personalized approach more beneficial.
PIXCELL combines the benefits of global reach with the agility and personal touch of a boutique firm. This unique positioning enables PIXCELL to deliver comprehensive executive search solutions and market-specific expertise for a more tailored approach to executive recruitment.
Our talent search specialists are not only leaders in their field but also well versed in industry-specific business concerns. Over the years, our executive recruitment firm has developed a vast network of Canadian and international partners to provide you with fast, privileged access to the best candidates in your industry.
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