The value of executive search in higher education: a wider perspective

In the ever-evolving landscape of UK higher education, universities are grappling with numerous challenges, financial constraints, regulatory changes, and heightened expectations from students and staff.

At the core of navigating these complexities lies effective leadership.

Appointing permanent senior leaders is not merely about filling a role; it is about shaping strategy, culture, and long-term success. This is where executive search plays a pivotal role, providing immense value for institutions, candidates and the sector as a whole.

For universities – access and assurance

The most exceptional leaders are often not found through traditional job advertisements. Executive search transcends conventional recruitment methods, enabling universities to tap into a hidden talent pool. By employing market mapping and targeted engagement, executive search firms can identify outstanding leaders from within the sector and adjacent fields, ensuring that institutions have access to the very best candidates.

In addition, senior appointments carry inherent risks. A poorly chosen leader can destabilise an institution and damage its reputation. Executive search services provide a structured and impartial process, encompassing clear role definition, benchmarking, and robust candidate assessment. This meticulous approach ensures that universities can proceed with confidence, knowing that the selected candidate possesses the requisite experience and leadership qualities, as well as cultural fit with the institution’s values and goals.

For candidates – opportunity and advocacy

The value of executive search extends beyond universities; it significantly benefits candidates as well. Many sector leaders appreciate the discreet nature of executive search, which allows them to explore new opportunities without jeopardising their current roles.

This approach fosters a safe environment for candidates to assess potential career moves. Search partners serve as trusted advisors, offering candid feedback, market insights, and support throughout the recruitment process. They champion candidates’ strengths, ensuring fair representation and facilitating open dialogue between candidates and institutions. This advocacy helps candidates navigate the complexities of the hiring process, ultimately leading to better job matches.

For the sector – building leadership for the future

The impact of permanent leadership appointments goes far beyond addressing immediate vacancies. They are instrumental in shaping institutional culture, fostering innovation, and setting the strategic direction for years to come. The executive search process emphasises diversity and inclusion, actively sourcing leaders from underrepresented backgrounds and expanding the leadership profile within institutions.

This commitment reflects the diverse communities that universities serve and enhances their overall effectiveness. In the face of significant change, it is crucial for universities and their leaders to benefit from a search process that is both rigorous and human-centric.

By widening the talent pool, providing support for candidates, and ensuring informed decision-making, executive search strengthens leadership throughout the sector.

Ultimately, the value of executive search lies in its ability to reduce risk, expand choice, and facilitate successful leadership transitions. As universities face an increasingly challenging environment, the right leaders can define their future, making executive search an indispensable partner in higher education leadership.

The changing landscape of executive recruitment in higher education

With a diverse 30-year career, Kiersten has held senior positions across multi-national private, public and voluntary sector organisations, including higher education, where she managed portfolios in marketing, student recruitment, program development, and international engagement, at Faculty level. Her extensive experience gives her unique insights into the challenges facing higher education institutions and their leadership.

Kiersten joined the Anderson Quigley team in 2022, bringing over five years of experience and a strong track record in senior academic and professional service roles. Known for winning work through recommendations, she specialises in supporting her clients with complex institutional recruitment campaigns, and she excels at managing multi-role placements. She has successfully and carefully placed numerous senior candidates, in the last eight years, and her support for both clients and candidates is recognised as sector-leading.

You can email her at kiersten.avery@andersonquigley.com or connect with her on LinkedIn.