Frequently Asked Questions
Female Executive Search — FAQ
What is Female Executive Search?
Female Executive Search (FES) is a specialist executive recruitment firm focused on placing senior female leaders into C-level, board, and other top management roles. We connect organizations with highly qualified women executives across a wide range of industries and geographies, helping companies build more diverse and effective leadership teams. You can explore our hiring services to see how we support each search.
How does Female Executive Search find senior women leaders?
We maintain an extensive global network of vetted female executives and use a rigorous, research-led search process. Each assignment combines targeted headhunting, in-depth candidate assessment, and reference validation to ensure that every shortlisted leader matches the role's requirements, the company culture, and the strategic goals of the hiring organization. Hiring companies can search our database of vetted executives directly.
What types of roles does Female Executive Search recruit for?
We recruit for senior leadership positions including CEO, CFO, COO, CMO, CHRO, and other C-suite roles, as well as non-executive director and board appointments. We also place senior vice presidents, managing directors, and country managers for organizations seeking experienced female leaders at the top of their structure. You can meet our women executives to view profiles across these roles.
Which industries does Female Executive Search cover?
Our reach spans technology, finance, healthcare, consumer goods, industrial and manufacturing, professional services, energy, and many other sectors. Because our network is global and cross-industry, we can support both specialized searches within a single field and broader leadership mandates. We also run dedicated searches in verticals such as IT, software development, and the consumer packaged goods industry.
Why focus specifically on recruiting female executives?
Research consistently links gender-diverse leadership with stronger financial performance, better governance, and improved decision-making. Many organizations want to broaden their leadership pipeline but lack access to a deep pool of senior female talent. Female Executive Search closes that gap by specializing exclusively in identifying and placing accomplished women leaders. Learn more about why companies choose Female Executive Search and our approach to diversity recruitment.
How long does an executive search typically take?
Timelines vary with the seniority and complexity of the role, but most senior searches produce a qualified shortlist within a few weeks of launch. We prioritize speed without compromising quality, keeping clients closely informed at each stage so that hiring decisions can move forward with confidence.
Does Female Executive Search operate internationally?
Yes. We conduct searches on a global scale and have access to female executive talent across Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. This international footprint allows us to support multinational organizations as well as companies seeking leaders with specific regional experience, including in France, the USA, the UK, Germany, and India.
How are candidates assessed before being shortlisted?
Every candidate undergoes a structured evaluation that examines leadership track record, functional expertise, cultural fit, and strategic capability. We combine in-depth interviews with careful reference checks and an assessment of each candidate's alignment with the client's objectives, ensuring that only the strongest matches reach the shortlist. You can read testimonials from our women executives about the process.
How does Female Executive Search relate to CEO Worldwide?
Female Executive Search is the sister brand of CEO Worldwide, a global executive recruitment firm established in 2001 that operates across more than 180 countries. FES applies the same proven search methodology and international network while focusing specifically on senior female leadership appointments.
How can a company start an executive search with Female Executive Search?
Companies can begin by contacting our team to discuss the role, the required leadership profile, and the strategic context of the hire. The fastest way to start is to submit a search mandate, and we will define a tailored search brief and present the most suitable female executive candidates for the position.
Can experienced female executives join the Female Executive Search network?
Yes. Senior women leaders interested in new executive, board, or advisory opportunities are welcome to join our network. Experienced female executives can register to join Female Executive Search or browse current job opportunities for female executives to be considered for relevant mandates as they arise.