Press Release
Members-only report and public white paper offer new insights from AESC’s 2025 Global Benchmark Survey
NEW YORK, March 24, 2026 — The Association of Executive Search and Leadership Consultants (AESC) today announced the release of The Human Era in Executive Search, a new members-only-access report offering exclusive client-based research on the forces shaping the executive search profession.
Drawing on insights from AESC’s 2025 Three-Year Global Benchmark Survey, the report examines how client expectations are evolving amid market volatility, leadership complexity, and the growing influence of artificial intelligence. It explores what clients value most from executive search and leadership advisory partners, how firms are being evaluated, and which capabilities matter most in today’s market.
The Human Era in Executive Search highlights several key themes, including:
- Where client expectations are shifting fastest
- How firms are being evaluated and selected
- What differentiates high-value advisory relationships
- Where AI is influencing process, perception, and performance
- Which capabilities matter most in today’s market
The report is designed to help AESC members better understand the changing market, strengthen client conversations, sharpen positioning, and inform strategic planning.
The Human Era in Executive Search is available exclusively to AESC Members as part of AESC’s commitment to delivering research, insight, and resources that advance the profession and support Member firms globally.
AESC Members can log in to access the report: The Human Era in Executive Search
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.
