"Finding leadership
takes more than a
database search"
Partner hires are the most consequential decisions a practice makes
Whether you're bringing in a founding partner for a new service line, succession planning for a retiring principal, or building out leadership ahead of a growth phase, the margin for error is zero
At Accountable Talent, our retained partner search model is built around that reality
We operate on a retained basis for partner level mandates That means exclusivity, commitment and a structured process
"Not a scattergun approach to a shared shortlist"
Discovery
We begin with a thorough briefing, not just the job spec, but the culture, the politics, the opportunity, and what failure looks like. Partner hiring lives or dies on fit. We need to understand your firm at a level most recruiters never bother to reach.
Mapping
We identify the full universe of credible candidates across the market, active and passive. We're not limited to who happens to be registered with an agency. We'll approach individuals directly, discreetly, and professionally.
Assessment
We qualify rigorously before anything reaches your desk. Commercials, motivations, technical credibility, cultural alignment screened and summarised so your time is spent on real conversations, not wasted on speculative CVs.
Presentation
You'll receive a structured shortlist with our honest assessment of each candidate, including any concerns. We don't hide weaknesses to close a fee. If someone isn't right, we'll tell you.
Process Management
We handle logistics, communication, and candidate management throughout. Partner candidates expect a professional experience. We make sure they get one which reflects directly on your firm.
Offer & Onboarding
We manage the offer stage, support negotiation, and stay close through notice period and into onboarding. A placed candidate who resigns in month two is a failure, regardless of the paperwork.
Why Retained?
A retained model means we're fully committed to your search, not running it in parallel with thirty others on the off chance of a fee. We can approach passive candidates credibly, knowing the mandate is real.
You get transparency, accountability, and a genuine partnership rather than a transaction.
"Contingency works for volume. It doesn't work for partners"
"Stop giving two thirds of your search fee away to firms who haven't filled the role, and have nothing to show for it if they don't."
Our fee is one third on instruction, two thirds on completion. No hidden stages, no ambiguity.
We commit to your search from day one and we don't stop until it's done
Built on relationships
Proven by results
Rowan Lindsay
Partner
I've known Adam for a number of years and he's always shown himself to be reliable and transparent, two very important categories in talent acquisition. There's no spin or time wasting, just good solutions for my requirements, which mean I'm always happy to take his call. I continue to work with Adam and I highly recommend him.
John Black
Partner
I had a great experience working with Adam. He communicated clearly and promptly, provided straightforward and honest information, and made the process feel professional and personal. Unlike many recruiters, he focused on building a genuine relationship rather than just making a placement, which made a real difference.
Katherine Rose
Partner
Adam is an extremely well informed recruiter and was a supportive guide through such a significant life decision. Thank you Adam for all your time and effort. I highly recommend Adam for anyone looking for a down to earth and honest recruiter.