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Summary

Filling key positions is among the most demanding decisions a company can make. In addition to professional qualifications, market knowledge, discretion, process clarity, and above all long-term fit play a central role.

 

The following questions and answers provide a structured insight into executive search and demonstrate how Wirz & Partners designs and manages the search and decision-making process.

 1. What exactly is executive search –
    and how does it differ from traditional recruiting?  

Wirz & Partners provides access to leadership talent that is not reachable through traditional channels – and ensures that decisions are based on a well-founded view of the relevant market.

 

Executive Search involves the targeted identification and direct approach of individuals who are not actively seeking new opportunities. Unlike traditional recruiting, the process does not rely on incoming applications but on a structured market approach and a systematic selection process.

 

 2. When is it truly worthwhile to engage an executive search firm?  

Wirz & Partners enables objective, well-founded decisions for key leadership positions – particularly where internal or traditional approaches reach their limits.

 

The use of executive search is especially valuable for strategically critical roles, succession planning, transformation situations, or confidential searches. A structured market comparison ensures that not only available candidates, but the most suitable individuals are considered.

 

3. What does an executive search process look like in practice? 

Through our methodology, we guide the entire search process in a structured way, creating clarity at every stage – from role definition to final decision.

 

Based on a precise understanding of the position, the relevant market is systematically analysed. Candidates are approached in a discreet and tailored manner. In the assessment, we consider not only experience, but also leadership style, values, and overall impact within the specific organisational context.

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4. What costs are associated with executive search? 

We create transparency and ensure that the investment in a key leadership appointment delivers sustainable value.

 

Fees typically align with the total compensation of the position and are often in the range of approximately 30–35% of the total compensation package, based on a minimum base salary of around CHF 200,000.

 

What matters most, however, is the value created: a structured process reduces the risk of mis-hires and provides a well-founded basis for decision-making.

5. How is confidentiality ensured throughout the process? 

Wirz & Partners safeguards the reputation of all parties through a discreetly managed and carefully controlled process.

 

Candidates are approached in a targeted and context-sensitive manner, and information is shared deliberately and in a structured way. This ensures that the entire search process remains fully confidential for both clients and candidates at all times.

6. How long does it take to fill a top-level position? 

Wirz & Partners fills key leadership positions through a clearly structured and efficient process—without compromising the level of care required.

 

A typical mandate takes around four months. This timeframe ensures sufficient market transparency, a thoughtful approach to candidate engagement, and well-founded decision-making.

 

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7. How is it ensured that candidates are truly the right fit (cultural fit)? 

We ensure that not only competence, but true alignment with the organisation is at the centre of the decision.

 

In addition to professional qualifications, we assess leadership approach, values, motivation, and overall impact within the specific business context. At senior levels, success depends not only on capability, but on how well an individual fits with the organisation, its governing bodies, and its culture.

 

 

8. What happens if a placement does not work out? 

Wirz & Partners reduces the risk of mis-hires and provides additional security through a structured guarantee.

 

Even with a thorough and careful selection process, an appointment may in individual cases prove not to be sustainable. In such situations, a clearly structured process allows for a well-founded assessment of the circumstances.

 

As part of the mandate, Wirz & Partners offers a guarantee and supports a renewed search in a structured and efficient manner.

 

 

9. How are candidates identified and approached?  

Identification is driven by structured in-house research conducted by a dedicated team of ten, complemented by continuously developed networks and deep market insight.

 

A comprehensive view of the relevant market is essential to enable well-founded comparisons and informed decisions.

 

Candidates are approached in a discreet, tailored, and respectful manner—always in the context of the specific role and situation.

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10. What impact does executive search have on employer branding? 

Every search process shapes how a company is perceived in the market.

 

A large number of professionals come into contact with the organisation over the course of a mandate—regardless of whether they progress in the process. The way these interactions are managed plays a key role in how the company is experienced.

 

Respectful, professional, and consistent communication ensures a positive experience for all involved. This creates a candidate experience that directly contributes to strengthening the employer brand.