Data from the Association of Executive Search Consultants (AESC) has indicated growth within the worldwide executive search industry in the second quarter of the year by almost 10 per cent on the previous quarter. The figures also show a year on year growth of 11 per cent. The number of search assignments have also increased – by four per cent both year on year and quarter on quarter – representing a reversal in the recent trend of fewer assignments albeit of greater value.

Sector trends highlighted particular growth in the number of new searches started within the Industrial sector, up 15.2 per cent quarterly from Q1 2014 to Q2 2014 and 5.9 per cent yearly from Q2 2013 to Q2 2014.  Life Sciences/Healthcare also saw positive quarterly (5.3 per cent) and yearly growth (one per cent) in new executive searches.

“It is very encouraging to see continued improved demand for senior executives both on a regional and sector basis,” said AESC President Peter Felix. “This positive trend is indicative of economic recovery in the major economies of North America and Europe and the desire by Boards of Directors and top management to more actively engage in the search for the best talent to achieve growth and strategic development. We expect this positive trend to continue as the emerging markets of the world enjoy faster economic growth, and competition for the best executives gathers pace.”

The EMEA, Asia Pacific and North American regions all recorded strong annual and quarterly growth, while the Central and South American region recorded a drop in quarterly activity of 1.6 per cent.

Source: The Global Recruiter