Choosing between retained search and contingency recruiting fundamentally shapes the quality of your candidate pool, executive alignment, and long-term retention. Here is an objective breakdown of how each model works and when to use them.
The upfront retainer funds exhaustive market research, discreet headhunting of employed professionals, and deep multi-stage vetting. It guarantees that experienced search principals dedicate intensive daily focus to your role rather than juggling dozens of contingent job orders.
While possible, contingency recruiters are incentivized by placement probability rather than search thoroughness. If an executive role is difficult or niche, a contingency agency often abandons the search in favor of easier, faster placements.
Placement Ridge operates on a selective, capacity-capped retained search model. Each partner manages a maximum of 4 active searches concurrently, backed by a standard 180-day replacement guarantee.
Speak with a Placement Ridge partner for transparent advice on whether a retained search aligns with your hiring objectives.