Your Three-Step Path to Certification

The AESC Certificate in Executive Research is structured into three required parts, offering a flexible, self-paced learning experience that fits your schedule while delivering maximum impact.

Part 1: On-Demand Learning

Build a strong foundation with self-paced online modules before joining the live forum. (prerequisite)

Part 2: Virtual Expert Forum

Engage in a live, expert-led forum. Multiple sessions available for a global audience. (2 hours/day, 3 days, multiple dates)

Part 3: Interactive Assessment

Validate your expertise with a comprehensive exam and personalized feedback.

 All components must be completed to earn the certificate.

Invest in the AESC Certificate in Executive Research

Gain the skills, strategies, and best practices to excel in executive research. Learn advanced sourcing techniques to identify top talent, gather market intelligence to shape search strategies, and build strong relationships with senior executives.

  • Stand Out with a Recognized Certificate – Earn an industry-respected credential that enhances your credibility and career prospects.
  • Gain In-Demand Executive Research Skills – Learn cutting-edge techniques to identify, assess, and engage top executive talent.
  • Apply Real-World Strategies – Use proven methodologies to gather market intelligence, optimize search strategies, and build strong candidate relationships.
  • Join a Global Network – Connect with industry peers who share similar goals and objectives in a collaborative, noncompetitive environment.
  • Advance Your Career – Elevate your expertise, deliver greater value to clients, and drive business success.

Expert Forum Schedule

The Certificate in Executive Research Expert Forum, a key component of the program, is a 2-hour session held over 3 consecutive days and is scheduled throughout the year to accommodate a global audience. Certificate participants only need to attend one Expert Forum. They must complete the on-demand portion prior to attending the Forum. Find the Forum dates and times that work best for your schedule:

Certificate in Executive Research Expert Forums

  • Forum 1
    September 9, 2025 - September 11, 2025
    10:00 AM ET (New York) / 3:00 PM BST (London) / 7:30 PM IST (New Delhi)
    REGISTRATION IS CLOSED
  • Forum 2
    November 4, 2025 - November 6, 2025
    10:00 AM ET (New York) / 3:00 PM BST (London) / 7:30 PM IST (New Delhi)
    REGISTER NOW

Who Should Enroll?

The AESC Certificate in Executive Research is designed for professionals of all levels ranging from executive search newcomers to those who have over 10 years in the field.

Black woman in office leadership meeting smiling and holding tablet

Individuals

Researchers, coordinators, associates, analysts, in-house recruiters, talent acquisition managers, or any individuals overseeing research mandates.

Smiling African female speaker talking to audience during a business conference in office

Teams

Empower your team with industry-specific skills, level-set their expertise, and establish shared best practices to drive consistent success across your organization.

Meet the Facilitators

Stephanie Franklin

Managing Partner, Franklin Associates

Kerryn Wilson

Kerryn Wilson

Founder, Wilson Research

Success Stories and Insights

Real-World Impact

Past Participant Organizations

Discover how the AESC Certificate in Executive Research has transformed careers and enhanced research strategies.

Join 150+ leading companies who trust AESC Learning & Development to elevate their research practices.

What Graduates Say

“Completing the AESC Executive Search Certification has been an enriching experience, even as an experienced research associate and consultant. The program…enhanced my skills and broadened my perspective in the dynamic field of executive search.”

Jesse Jacobson

Richardson Executive Search

“Engaging with subject matter experts from various parts of the world provided me with valuable insights and perspectives that broadened my horizons. This experience not only deepened my understanding of the industry but also strengthened my skills as a research specialist.”

Ali Sahin

MPB Recruitment/ AltoPartners

Frequently Asked Questions

The Foundation Course is self-paced and available year-round. The Expert Forum is a 2-hour session held over 3 consecutive days and is scheduled throughout the year to accommodate a global audience. View the Schedule.

Upon completion of the Foundation Course and Expert Forum, participants are able to schedule the Final Exam at their convenience.

No prerequisites. The program is open to all levels of experience, particularly those new to executive research.

The program takes approximately 15 hours:

  • Foundation Course: 5-8 hours (self-paced)
  • Expert Forum: 6 hours (virtual, live sessions)
  • Final Exam: 30 minutes (plus prep)

If you do not pass the final exam on your initial attempt, you may re-sit the examination once for a $150 USD fee. Failure to pass the re-examination will result in the inability to earn a certificate. Refer to the AESC Learning & Development program policies for more details.

You have one year from your registration date to complete the Foundation Course and Expert Forum and sit for your final exam. You must complete the Foundation Course and the Expert Forum before you are able to sit for the Final Exam. Refer to the AESC Learning & Development program policies for more details.

Yes, AESC offers dedicated sessions for groups of 12+ and can schedule them at a convenient time. Group rates available for 4+ participants. Contact learndev@aesc.org for more details.

After passing the final exam, you’ll receive a detailed grading report, a certificate, and a LinkedIn badge to showcase your achievement.

Ready to Advance Your Executive Research Skills?

Take the next step in your career with the AESC Certificate in Executive Research and gain the knowledge, skills, and credential you need to excel in executive talent acquisition.

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Contact Us

Questions about the AESC Certificate in Executive Research? Email learndev@aesc.org.