Explore the field of executive search

Operating in Africa and the Middle East for 12 years, Fed Africa is a recruitment firm specialized in executive search for Top & Middle Management profiles. It is sometimes difficult for candidates to find companies that meet their expectations and correspond to their values. Entrusting your job search to Fed Africa allows you to benefit from a network of experts and personalized support throughout your recruitment process. Fed Africa provides you with the human and technical resources needed to give you optimum access to the job market that interests you. Find out more about candidates’ most frequently asked questions about the executive search function.

What is executive search? 

Executive search, also known as headhunting, is a highly specialized recruitment practice focused on finding high-caliber candidates for executive positions. This approach aims to identify and attract highly qualified and experienced professionals, often from very specific sectors. 

Why should you approach an executive search firm as a candidate?

Access to high-level opportunities: 

Recruitment firms specializing in executive search have access to executive positions and strategic opportunities with prestigious companies. By sending them your resume, you increase your chances of discovering high-quality jobs that match your expertise and career aspirations. 

Confidentiality:

When you are looking for a high-level position, confidentiality is essential. Recruitment firms are used to handling applications discreetly, allowing you to pursue your career without publicly disclosing your job search. 

Sector expertise: 

Recruitment firms specializing in executive search have in-depth knowledge of the industries and markets specific to the region in which they operate. Their consultants understand market trends, company needs and in-demand skills, which can help you to better target your search and stand out as a candidate. 

Extensive network: 

These firms often have an extensive network of contacts within local and international companies, which means they can present your profile to potential employers you would  have difficulties to reach on your own. This can broaden your professional horizons and enable you to make useful contacts in your field. You can be contacted at any time if your profile matches a company’s search: this is known as passive recruitment. 

Personalized support: 

Recruitment firms offer personalized support throughout the recruitment process, from preparing your application to negotiating the terms of your contract. Their advice and expertise can help you maximize your chances of success. 

Skills assessment:

Recruitment firms are equipped to assess your skills, aptitudes and cultural fit with the client company. They can help you understand your strengths and weaknesses as a candidate, enabling you to be better prepared for interviews.

Time-saving:

Searching for high-level professional opportunities can be time-consuming. By delegating this task to a recruitment agency, you can save time and devote yourself to other tasks. 

Who uses executive search?

Fed Africa offers its services to all types of businesses: local companies, pan-African enterprises, multinationals, start-ups, seeking executive profiles for their operations. 

How does the selection phase work?

Identifying the opportunity:

As a candidate, you may be contacted by a consultant who presents you with an executive job opportunity. They will explain the details of the position, the responsibilities, the company and the expectations.

Interview / Discovery phase:

If you are interested in the opportunity, you will go through an interview with the headhunter. The purpose of this interview is to gain a better understanding of your experience, skills and potential suitability for the position.

In-depth assessment:

If the interview is successful, you will undergo a more in-depth assessment. This includes longer, more detailed interviews, skills tests, personality assessments, and reference checks.

Presentation to the client company:

If your profile corresponds to the client company’s criteria, the consultant in charge of your application will introduce you to them. This involves further interviews with company representatives, including members of management.

Interviews with the client company: 

You will take part in interviews with the client company to present your application and discuss the position, company and corporate culture in detail. This also an opportunity for you to assess whether the company correspond to your own career goals and values.

Negotiating the offer:

If the client company is interested in hiring you, the consultant will facilitate negotiations concerning compensation, benefits and other conditions of employment. You will have the opportunity to discuss these elements and make an informed decision.

Acceptance of the offer:

If the negotiations are successful, you will have the opportunity to accept the job offer. Once you have accepted, the process continues with your integration into the company.

Integration:

Once the offer has been accepted, it is important to discuss your future integration, in order to ease the transition to your new role. This can include meetings with the management team, and planning your first tasks and responsibilities.

How long does the process take? 

The length of the process varies according to the company and the position to be filled. You also need to take into account any administrative formalities involved in an international executive search (obtaining a work visa, etc.). 

What are recruiters looking for? 

Companies turn to recruitment firm specializing in executive search to find high-caliber candidates who process the expertise, leadership skills and cultural ability to succeed in executive or senior management positions on the African continent and in the Middle East.

They are also looking for firms renowned for their reliability, extensive network and understanding of the specificities of the African and Middle Eastern markets. 

Should I have several versions of my CV to suit more positions? 

It can be useful to have several resumes at your disposal, depending on the elements you wish to highlight. Some process will require you to highlight a specific business expertise and/or skills, while others will favor your development in a particular sector of activity. These elements are discussed with one of our executive search consultants when they contact you. 

What does it mean to be “represented” or “introduced” to a client by a recruitment firm? 

If a recruiter tells you that they intend to “represent” you to a client, this means that they will share your candidate information with the client and recommend you as a potential candidate.

Executive search is more than just a search for candidates: it is an opportunity for you to showcase your experience, skills and ambitions to companies of all sectors and sizes. Our dedicated team is committed to helping you find positions that correspond to your career aspirations.

If you are a candidate looking for new professional opportunities in Africa and the Middle East, or if you have any further questions and would like to discuss your career goals, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to provide you with personalized advice and support throughout your recruitment process. Find out what vacancies are available on our website and on our LinkedIn page. You can also send us your unsolicited application: a consultant will contact you as soon as your profile matches one of our customers’ vacancies.