Retained Executive Search Ireland: Exclusive Search & Leadership Advisory
Azon is a retained executive search firm in Ireland, operating exclusively on a retained model. We partner closely with clients to define the role, map the market, and secure the highest-calibre leadership appointment at C-suite, board, and senior director level.
Our retained search services cover organisations across Ireland and Dublin - from Irish-headquartered companies and private equity firms to family businesses and professional services. Every assignment is exclusive, confidential, and managed by a senior search consultant from briefing through to appointment.
We work with private equity firms, family businesses, professional services firms and corporates seeking high-impact leadership appointments.
Retained Executive Search Services: How We Deliver Leadership Hiring
Our retained executive search services include:
Benefits of Retained Executive Search Services
Access to the full executive talent market, active and passive candidates
We engage passive candidates not actively on the market
Higher quality leadership hires - structured process focused on long-term impact
Focused, structured process designed for long-term success
Full market coverage - retained search means no strong candidate is missed
Talent mapping ensures no relevant candidates are missed
Confidential and controlled process - ideal for sensitive or strategic leadership roles
Ideal for sensitive or strategic leadership hires
A single dedicated retained search partner managing the full process
Exclusive relationship with full accountability
Who Uses Retained Executive Search?
What is Retained Executive Search?
Retained executive search is a structured hiring model in which an organisation appoints a search firm on an exclusive, committed basis to manage a senior leadership appointment. Unlike contingency recruitment - where agencies compete and are paid only on placement - a retained search firm is engaged from the outset, investing fully in understanding the business, mapping the full talent market, and managing a confidential, structured process to completion.
This model is used for critical leadership hires where quality and precision are essential.
Why Choose Azon as Your Retained Search Firm
30+ years delivering retained executive search in Ireland
Deep network of C-suite and board talent across Ireland and globally
Proven track record in retained C-suite and board appointments
Trusted retained search advisor to CEOs, CHROs, and boards
Specialist in retained, exclusive executive search - no contingency work
Retained Search Firm vs Contingency Recruitment
Azon operates as a retained search firm, not a contingency recruitment agency.
Retained Executive Search
Contingency Recruitment
For senior executive hiring, retained search consistently delivers stronger outcomes.
Exclusive Executive Search for High-Impact Hiring
Retained executive search is designed for organisations that require:
Azon delivers exclusive executive search services that align with long-term business goals.
Our Domestic & Global Reach
We deliver retained executive search assignments across Dublin and Ireland, supporting organisations hiring critical leadership roles.
Our approach combines local market expertise with global reach to identify and secure high-calibre leadership talent.
Retained Executive Search FAQ
What is retained executive search?
Retained executive search is a structured hiring model where an organisation appoints a search firm on an exclusive, committed basis to manage a senior leadership appointment. The search firm is engaged from the start - not paid on contingency - and takes full responsibility for mapping the talent market, confidential candidate engagement, assessment, and appointment.
How does a retainer fee work?
A retainer is the upfront fee paid to a retained executive search firm to begin and manage a search. It confirms the exclusive engagement between client and search firm and aligns both parties to the outcome. At Azon, retained fees are structured across the search process - from briefing and talent mapping through to shortlist and appointment. There are no success-only fees; the retained model means the search is given the full resource it requires.
How long does a retained search take?
Retained executive searches are typically concluded within eight to twelve weeks, depending on the seniority of the role, sector complexity, and the availability of the appointing committee. Our retained process includes market mapping, confidential outreach, candidate assessment, presentation, and final appointment support. Timelines are agreed at briefing stage.
What is the difference between a retained search firm and a headhunter?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but a retained search firm operates on an exclusive, structured basis - engaged upfront and accountable for the full process. A "headhunter" can refer to any recruiter who approaches candidates directly. At Azon, we operate exclusively as a retained search firm - every search is exclusive, structured, and managed by a senior consultant.
Do you work on contingency searches?
No. Azon operates exclusively on a retained basis. We do not work on contingency. This model ensures every search receives the full investment of time, resource, and market coverage it requires. If you are considering a retained search for a C-suite or board appointment in Ireland, we would welcome a conversation.