Principal - Executive Search

• Support Partners on searches; lead end-to-end delivery of some Level 2/3 searches.
• Translate discovery insights into a clear search strategy, accurately defining the client’s CFO requirements (“decoding the CFO need”). 
• Ability to pivot search strategy based on client and market feedback. search strategies.
• Build and manage realistic search timelines, providing accurate forecasting and delivering to agreed milestone
• Accurately assess a candidate’s capability and fit against set criteria. 
• Run calibration calls and present candidates with clear guidance and recommendations.
• Manage candidate pipelines, ensuring timely, high-quality execution.
• Provide market intelligence that drives client decision-making.
• Report on progress, timelines, risks, and mitigation plans.
• Lead the research effort and approach to ensure effective search execution.
• Collaborate with team members to ensure candidates progress through the process in a timely manner.
• Mentor and train junior team members to build overall team capability.
• Qualify and approve fund mapping completed by Analysts
• Lead on relevant CFO -1 outreach for CFOs who they know well/searches they have led
• Support Growth and Partners with pitch materials, as well as overseeing and approving output from Associates
• Leverage CFO network to generate BD leads for CFO-1 retainers

The role is measured by: Search delivery pace and quality, quality of candidate assessment and screening, search strategy input, and pipeline health across mandates.

Technical Skills: 

• Strong command of search processes from calibration to close.
• Skilled in candidate engagement and negotiation.
• Ability to generate and communicate clear market insights.
• Commercial literacy in reporting and forecasting.
• Strong ecosystem knowledge (CFO archetypes, VC/PE, high-growth tech).

Human Skills: 

• Clear communicator, confident in client and candidate interactions.
• Highly proactive, works at pace with strong ownership of deliverables. 
• Effective at project managing multiple searches, priorities and deadlines.
• Skilled stakeholder manager, able to balance internal and external relationships with sound judgement.
• Collaborative, supportive mentor and adaptable team player.
• Adaptable and resilient, able to pivot strategies based on feedback.
• Values-driven, linking personal contribution to Altima’s mission.