Press Release
New York, NY — May 26, 2026— AESC Learning & Development today announced the launch of Networking Events by AESC L&D, a new series of curated sessions designed to help executive search and leadership advisory professionals explore timely industry topics through expert insight and meaningful peer exchange.
Created for professionals who value both practical learning and impactful networking, each session will open with a concise briefing from a recognized expert, followed by facilitated small-group discussions that encourage candid dialogue, shared experiences, and actionable takeaways.
“Executive search professionals are navigating rapid change across talent integration, AI, client expectations, and firm performance,” said Rebecca Ditchey, AESC Senior Program Manager – Learning & Development. “These networking events are designed to create space for focused learning and high-quality peer exchange, helping participants leave with new ideas, stronger connections, and practical approaches they can bring back to their firms.”
The series will begin with sessions focused on two pressing topics for today’s executive search leaders:
From Hire to Impact: A Candid Discussion on Evaluating, Integrating, and Retaining Senior Executive Search Talent
There’s no formula for guaranteeing senior hire will succeed, but there are plenty of ways firms can improve the odds, both before and after the offer is made. This session brings together perspectives from across the hiring journey, exploring how pre-hire decisions shape long-term outcomes and how thoughtful integration strategies can accelerate contribution, strengthen retention, and build momentum early.
The Strategic Executive Researcher: How Top Researchers Influence Search Decisions and Earn Credibility
The strongest researchers do far more than deliver information, they shape how clients think, evaluate talent, and ultimately make decisions. This interactive networking session will explore how top-performing research professionals build credibility with clients, communicate insights strategically, and influence outcomes without overstepping their role.
The networking events are designed for executive researchers, associates, coordinators, specialists, executive recruiters, senior-level professionals, and teams seeking consistent engagement and alignment across roles. Special group rates are available for four or more participants.
AESC Members will receive preferred pricing for all Networking Events by AESC L&D, reflecting AESC’s commitment to delivering high-value professional development and peer engagement opportunities to its global membership. Non-Member professionals are also welcome to participate at the standard rate, providing broader access to timely industry insight while maintaining a special member benefit for AESC firms and their teams.
AESC L&D’s fee structure reflects the curated nature of each event, including expert-led perspectives, professionally facilitated peer discussions, and paid moderators who help ensure each session remains focused, inclusive, and valuable for all participants.
Registration is now open at www.aesc.org/learning-development/networking-events.
About AESC
AESC Member firms place and advise the world’s board directors and C-suite leaders. Founded in 1959, AESC represents the global gold standard in executive search and leadership consulting, bringing together over 16,000 professionals in more than 80 countries. AESC Members are rigorously vetted to meet the highest standards in the profession, with only the top tier accepted into Membership.
To serve and promote its Members, AESC holds exclusive multi-day events and summits across the globe; provides in-person and online educational seminars and courses; operates the BlueSteps platform connecting candidates with AESC Member firms; publishes extensive industry research, as well as Executive Talent magazine; and provides access to exclusive Insight Exchanges and partnerships to assist Members with virtually every part of their business operations.
