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Retained Executive Search

The gold standard for C-suite and board mandates — exclusive, dedicated, and comprehensive.

What is Retained Search?

Retained executive search is the appropriate engagement model when the leadership appointment carries significant strategic consequence — typically CEO, CFO, COO, CMO, CTO, CHRO, EVP, or board director roles where failure to identify the right person creates material organizational risk.

In a retained engagement, CYPHERIX SYSTEMS LLC is engaged exclusively by the client, with an agreed-upon professional fee structure that is not contingent solely on placement. This structure is not arbitrary — it creates the right incentives for the depth of work required, the dedicated consultant attention the mandate deserves, and the willingness to spend the time necessary to find the right person rather than simply the fastest.

Every retained search client receives weekly progress briefings, a detailed candidate report for each individual presented for formal interview, and full reference and background documentation before any offer is extended.

What's Included in Every Retained Search

Dedicated senior consultant assigned exclusively to your mandate
Comprehensive organizational and role diagnostic — typically 2-3 days on-site or via structured interviews
Full target organization and candidate market mapping
Structured competency interviews with all actively pursued candidates
Psychometric leadership profiling on shortlisted candidates
360-degree reference verification from direct supervisors, direct reports, and peers
Offer facilitation and compensation market benchmarking
Onboarding support and 12-month placement guarantee

Ideal For

  • CEO / President
  • CFO / Chief Financial Officer
  • COO / Chief Operating Officer
  • CHRO / Chief HR Officer
  • CMO / CTO / CIO
  • EVP / SVP Leadership Roles
  • Independent Board Directors
  • Confidential / Sensitive Mandates

Key Metrics

Avg. Time to Shortlist6–8 weeks
Avg. Time to Placement60–90 days
24-Month Retention94%
Replacement Guarantee12 months
Initiate a Retained Search
Start with a confidential conversation