A year defined by talent demand
2023 marked a period of extraordinary growth across many of the markets H&P Executive Search specialises in – particularly banking and legal.
As investment increased and firms expanded their teams, the demand for high-performing talent intensified.
“We saw a huge acceleration in hiring across our core markets,” explained Jack Hayes, CEO of H&P. “That surge in demand created even more competition for the best candidates and pushed the market firmly into candidate-driven territory.”
What this meant for clients
With candidates fielding multiple offers, the power balance shifted.
Employers who wanted to secure the top one per cent of talent needed to act fast and think holistically about their proposition.
Flexibility around salary, benefits, and working conditions became decisive factors. Those who led with transparency and agility were able to differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive hiring landscape.
“Clients who considered flexibility early in their offer process were the ones consistently winning top profiles,” Hayes noted.
How candidates approached the market
For candidates, a candidate-short market offered rare leverage – the chance to evaluate multiple opportunities side by side.
H&P’s consultants supported senior professionals in navigating that choice, helping them benchmark remuneration, progression, and long-term value.
“At H&P, we work across a defined set of specialisms,” said Hayes. “That gives candidates confidence that, by the end of a process, they’re seeing the best opportunities available in the market at any given time.”
A proactive approach to executive search
Behind the scenes, 2023 also reinforced the importance of proactivity and specialisation in executive search.
H&P’s consultants remained focused on niche markets, building relationships that allowed them to move quickly when demand spiked.
“Our consultants are trained to be proactive,” Hayes added. “That focus enables us to deliver for clients efficiently and maintain high standards across every brief.”
Looking back
While market dynamics continue to evolve, 2023 highlighted the importance of adaptability – for clients, candidates, and recruiters alike.
Periods of rapid hiring demand test the strength of relationships, reward clarity, and reinforce the value of trusted search partners.