Executive Search & Advisory – Frequently Asked Questions
What is Macbeth International?
Macbeth International is a boutique executive search and leadership advisory firm headquartered in Geneva, operating across Switzerland, France, Italy, the UK, and wider Europe.
We partner with boards, founders, and C-level leaders to identify, attract, and integrate exceptional executives who bring strategic intelligence, cultural fit, and human depth.
Our work goes far beyond recruitment: we act as strategic advisors on leadership composition, succession, and governance, ensuring every appointment supports long-term organisational success.
How is executive search different from recruitment?
Executive search is a strategic and confidential process that focuses on leadership excellence, not volume.
Unlike traditional recruiting, it involves:
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In-depth analysis of corporate culture and leadership needs.
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Discreet headhunting of high-performing executives who are not actively looking.
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Rigorous assessment of leadership impact and values alignment.
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Partner-level advisory throughout offer, transition, and integration.
At Macbeth International, we view each mandate as a trusted partnership, not a transactional placement.
Which roles and levels do you cover?
We specialise in:
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Board & Chair appointments
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C-suite leaders (CEO, CFO, COO, CHRO, CMO, CTO etc.)
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Senior functional leaders in Finance, HR, Legal, Operations, Technology, Strategy, and Commercial roles
Our clients range from international groups and family offices to private-equity ventures and owner-led enterprises.
What is your executive search process?
Each mandate follows a structured and transparent methodology:
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Briefing & Diagnostic – Understanding culture, leadership style, and success criteria.
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Market Mapping – Identifying target companies and benchmark talent.
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Confidential Outreach – Engaging discreetly with senior candidates.
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Evaluation & Shortlist – Assessing alignment, motivation, and potential.
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Selection & Offer Management – Supporting decision-making and negotiation.
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Onboarding & Integration – Ensuring a smooth transition and long-term success.
How long does a search take?
Most assignments are completed within 8 to 16 weeks, depending on role complexity and geography.
We prioritise quality and cultural precision over speed — ensuring each placement endures.
What are your fees and terms?
We work on a retained-search model.
Fees are structured in three stages (engagement, shortlist, completion) and include regular progress updates and full transparency.
All searches include a replacement guarantee, reflecting our commitment to sustainable results.
How do you ensure confidentiality?
Confidentiality is at the heart of our work.
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We protect client and candidate identities until mutual consent is granted.
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We comply with Swiss and EU data-protection standards.
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We adhere to strict ethical guidelines across every project.
Which industries do you serve?
Our network spans:
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Luxury, consumer & lifestyle brands
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Financial services & family offices
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Technology & digital transformation
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Industrial & manufacturing
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Life sciences & healthcare
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Professional & non-profit leadership
We leverage cross-industry insight to introduce leaders who bring innovation and diversity of thought.
What is leadership and board advisory?
Our advisory work covers:
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Leadership team design – Optimising team chemistry and structure.
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Succession planning – Identifying and preparing future leaders.
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Board composition & governance – Refreshing or building effective boards.
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Leadership diagnostics – Evaluating team dynamics and transformation readiness.
We act as independent sparring partners for boards, CEOs, and owners navigating change.
How can companies prepare for a search?
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Define the strategic purpose of the role.
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Align stakeholders on key criteria and decision process.
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Share openly about culture, vision, and challenges.
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Clarify integration expectations early.
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Engage collaboratively — partnership drives better outcomes.
What defines success for Macbeth International?
We measure impact through:
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Quality and relevance of candidate pipeline.
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Retention and performance of placed leaders.
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Cultural fit and leadership contribution after 12 months.
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Enduring client partnerships based on trust and results.
How does Macbeth International complement Macbeth Matchmaking?
Macbeth International focuses on professional leadership excellence.
Macbeth Matchmaking focuses on personal relationship harmony.
Together, they express a single philosophy: that meaningful human connection — whether in business or in life — is the foundation of lasting success.
