Press Release
AESC Award of Excellence in Executive Research Honors Carey Alun Maeder for Raising the Bar in the Profession
The Association of Executive Search and Leadership Consultants (AESC), the global association representing the + billion executive search and leadership consulting industry, has awarded Carey Alun Maeder, Associate at Andrews Partnership, with the AESC Award of Excellence in Executive Research.
“Carey’s work embodies the integrity, professionalism, and forward-thinking that define AESC’s standards,” said James Edmund Datri, President & CEO of AESC. “He represents the kind of talent that elevates our entire profession, and we are proud to recognize him with the AESC Award of Excellence in Executive Research.”
Carey’s contributions have consistently exceeded expectations and delivered strategic value far beyond task execution. One standout example was his work on a regional Corporate Affairs Executive search across APAC, where he built a market map of over 200 qualified candidates across five countries in under three weeks. This effort led to the appointment of a high-performing leader who would not have been uncovered through traditional channels. She hit the ground running and within six months was already improving business performance metrics.
Innovation is at the core of Carey’s approach. He has pioneered the use of AI at Andrews Partnership, for example by creating tailored briefing backs to support candidates in navigating complex career transitions. Through this, Carey ensures they are better prepared, more confident, and are positioned for success, especially key for candidates moving between sectors. His AI-driven process also identifies unconventional candidates, expanding client talent pools by up to 25% and delivering results that redefine what best-in-class research can achieve.
Carey’s impact extends beyond client delivery. He has reshaped internal processes, and his structured approach has reduced time-to-shortlist by 30% and enhanced the diversity and depth of talent identified, particularly in hard-to-reach sectors. He has also led internal training on advanced sourcing, market intelligence, and ethical research practices, improving researcher upskilling rates by 45% and earning consistent positive feedback from clients.
Colleagues describe Carey as a trusted partner whose commitment lifts the entire team:
“In his role as Associate, Carey is an ‘originator’ who consistently goes above and beyond, bringing sharp thinking, creativity, and a deep commitment to quality that sets him apart,” said Katrina Andrews, Managing Partner, Andrews Partnership. “Carey really exemplifies what excellence looks like in executive search. He’s not just doing the job—he goes way beyond that, every day.”
Carey’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and collaboration exemplifies the very best of the executive research profession.
About the AESC Award of Excellence in Executive Research
Established in 2004, the AESC Award of Excellence in Executive Research honors an AESC Member (Researcher or Associate) who has demonstrated the highest standards in executive research and has represented themselves and their firm with exceptional professionalism and ethics. Recipients of this award have made a lasting impact through innovation, leadership, and their commitment to advancing the executive research profession globally.
