Transatlantic recruiting: Executive search
Executive Search Process at a Glance
A professional executive search process begins with a deeper understanding of transatlantic HR requirements, which is anchored in a clearly structured strategic recruiting process. Our executive search HR process is specifically designed to identify executives for German-speaking companies in the transatlantic region (USA, Mexico, and Canada) in a targeted and sustainable manner.
In the next step, we will show you how executive search is structured in recruiting:
Step 1: Analysis & candidate pool development
Every search begins with an in-depth analysis of the target markets, the relevant industry structures, and the strategic objectives of the US subsidiary. As part of our executive search approach to recruiting, we create:
- A tailor-made requirements and candidate profile that convinces clients and candidates alike.
- A list of potential target companies where suitable candidates are currently employed.
- An assessment of the location and organizational structure – in North America as well as in the DACH home market.
Our database, our research team and our well-maintained network give us access to several hundred qualified executives per project as part of our executive search HR approach. In extreme cases, we even identify and evaluate over 2,000 potential candidates to ensure the best possible fit.
Step 2: Direct approach & pre-selection by experienced consultants
As part of our recruiting approach, experienced consultants take on the We personally contact suitable candidates and carry out a careful pre-selection process. (including two to three structured interviews by different consultants to ensure a multidimensional assessment). Our recruiters have German-American backgrounds and possess intercultural expertise as well as a deep understanding of the industry. This enables us to target specific candidates and convince them to take up a position in a non-American company.
- Discreet direct approach within the existing employment relationship
- Multi-stage interviews (telephone, video, in person)
- Background and reference checks
- Optional: psychometric analyses
- Assessment of cultural fit in the transatlantic context
A true mark of quality in our executive search process is that only about 0,2-0,6 % of the identified candidates reach the presentation phase. This result demonstrates the care and precision we invest in our pre-selection process. In addition, we successfully complete 90% of our search mandates by placing a candidate from the initial shortlist. This underscores our accuracy.
Step 3: Interviews & moderation by TH Bender
As our executive search process progresses, our clients often get to know the candidates first in a virtual meeting before we usually present three to six finalists in a joint meeting on site in the USA. These meetings are accompanied by an experienced senior partner from TH Bender, who structures the process and ensures comparability.
Our role in the process includes:
- Moderating discussions to ensure fair and transparent evaluation
- Structured feedback on both sides for informed decisions
- Clear trends after the first round, accelerating the selection process
- Further interviews, which will take place at the parent company in the DACH region if necessary
Our moderation sums up the core values of our executive search approach: clarity, transparency, and efficiency.
Step 4: Due diligence, contract negotiations, and placement
This phase of the executive search process encompasses the final steps leading up to successful recruitment. The aim is to minimize business risk, accelerate processes, and ensure a sustainable decision. As part of our executive search HR approach, we can carry out background checks and obtain and evaluate references to verify the suitability and integrity of candidates. We also provide support in coordinating key contract parameters such as compensation, bonuses, and general conditions before international travel takes place.
Typical content of this phase:
- Negotiations in the American market are usually conducted through executive search consultants.
- Advice on standard remuneration models, bonus structures, and fringe benefits
- Legal review and coordination with specialized local labor lawyers
- Conducting final reference interviews and background checks
- Support in drafting and negotiating the employment contract (tailored to the state and role)
Placement guarantee: We stand by our executive search HR process and offer a guarantee of up to 12 months on every successful placement, underscoring the quality and sustainability of our work.
Step 5: Integration & Follow-Up
Our involvement in the executive search process does not end once the contract has been signed. We actively support candidates and clients throughout the entire integration phase in a structured, transparent, and systematically documented manner. Our standardized integration process is fully integrated into our applicant tracking system and includes regular follow-ups during the first twelve months to ensure successful integration and identify potential challenges at an early stage.
Our services in this phase:
- Optional intercultural coaching for candidates
- Onboarding support upon request
- Regular coordination meetings with candidates and clients during the first few months
- Early identification and resolution of potential integration issues
Our clients appreciate the continuous contact and our willingness to take on responsibility beyond the recruitment process itself. This is an essential part of our understanding of sustainable executive search.
Are you ready to take your first step in executive search HR?
TH Bender & Partner stands for excellent transatlantic executive search. Our team of professionals relies on a structured, transparent, and proven approach. Executive Search Process.
As leading niche experts in filling executive positions in the US, Canada, and Mexico, we support German-speaking companies with our deep market understanding, intercultural expertise, and strong network.
Whether you are establishing your first US branch or looking to strategically strengthen your existing organization, our executive search recruiting team is here to assist you personally.
Get in touch with us Start your customized executive search process with TH Bender now.
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