ESA recommends retained searches for: Senior level positions where both clients and candidates expect the process to be managed by a professional retained search firm. A new business initiative where confidentiality is important. Where market perception affect the clients ability to attract the right talent. Sensitive high-level searches where the position involves the replacement of an individual. Where the client is working to a specific timescale Process   Prepare Brief: Working with our client, we put together a full job description, person specification and look at wider factors such as company culture, team dynamics, company vision and values. Source-list: ESA put together a list of suitable companies within an appropriate geographical area and skill set. With input from our client we finalise a comprehensive list of companies, which should have the required expertise. Identification: The ESA research team identify individuals at the appropriate level. To ensure we get a correct picture, the team chart people at the given level but also above and below as different companies have different corporate structures. Contact: The ESA team are trained in approaching potential candidates, showing them an opportunity whilst maintaining confidentiality, gaining the confidence of potential candidates and assessing their level of interest and suitability. Interview: An interview schedule is drawn up, usually with some input from the client. Candidates will undergo a structured interview process geared towards the criteria of the post. Psychometric tests can be carried out to support the process and identify questions for the next stage. Shortlist: The most suitable candidates are presented to our client with full interview reports and our recommendations. ESA follow the process through package negotiations, offer, acceptance and start. The client receives complete exclusivity regarding candidate introductions until they reject any potential candidate from the search process.