Executive Search
Executive Search
Secure the right leaders for your organisation with our tailored executive search service in New Zealand. Our industry-leading recruiters connect you with professionals who share your vision and are ready to drive your business forward.
Connecting like-minded leaders and employers through executive search
Exceptional leadership transforms organisations. The right executive drives performance, shapes culture, and delivers lasting impact from the boardroom to the bottom line.
For 40 years, we have mastered the art of identifying top-tier leaders and matching them with organisations where they can thrive. Employers and executives trust us to align vision, expertise, and leadership with the right opportunities, both in New Zealand and globally.
Let’s talk
Our executive search service connects the best organisations with the brightest leaders. Contact us to find out more.
Why choose Robert Walters to handle your executive search needs?
Receive a tailored service. With 40 years in operation, we have gained a proven record as an executive search firm that delivers a professional service that is crafted to meet your business needs.
Partner with industry experts. Many of our executive recruiters come from the industries they serve, meaning they have built hyper-specialist knowledge of the industry you operate in.
Acquire data driven insights. Our executive search strategy is highly targeted, defined by the insights from our market intelligence function.
Take advantage of our global reach. Our International Candidate Management teams have access to the top talent pools from across the globe.
Share our expertise. Giving you access to our specialist knowledge and in-depth experience though a broad range of insights, advice and thought leadership.
Executive hiring in New Zealand: Our specialist recruitment approach
We connect you with expert executive search recruiters specialising across multiple disciplines. Our refined process delivers a tailored shortlist, perfectly aligned with your recruitment brief.
As executive search specialists, we conduct comprehensive research, multi-channel sourcing, and detailed market mapping to create a bespoke talent pool.
This sophisticated search approach provides access to active and passive executives beyond traditional channels, delivering a tailored shortlist to help you find your next leader.
Executive coaching and leadership development programmes
Tailormade coaching programmes designed to meet the needs of leaders at any stage of their career journey. We invest time in understanding the role of the individual and the organisational strategy to provide bespoke coaching services that enable professionals to fulfil their unique potential.
Our approach empowers leaders to engage in self-discovery and define learning goals, giving leaders the tools to improve their professional performance. Our learning programmes are delivered by industry leading coaches and include executive coaching, transition coaching, leadership development and candidate assessment.
Speak to our executive search team
Neil Munro
Executive Search Business Director, New Zealand
With 20+ years in workforce solutions, Neil has held senior roles with global recruitment leaders and has extensive Executive Search experience in New Zealand. His 10 years in Business Advisory deepened his understanding of business dynamics, allowing him to place senior leaders across diverse sectors with a strategic approach.
Passionate about helping people, Neil thrives on connecting candidates with the right opportunities while ensuring businesses secure top talent. His expertise enables him to deliver tailored, cost-effective solutions that drive long-term success.
Sarah Mowbray
Executive Search Business Director, New Zealand
Sarah is a Business Director in our Executive Search team, specialising in senior leadership appointments across New Zealand. With over 14 years of local and international experience, she brings deep expertise in executive search, talent strategy, and leadership hiring.
Before rejoining Robert Walters in 2020, she led recruitment for a high-growth consultancy in London, gaining strong commercial acumen and insight into fast-paced environments.
Known for her end-to-end search capability and long-term client relationships, Sarah is passionate about connecting organisations with transformative talent.
Stuart Nash
Commercial Director, New Zealand
With a distinguished career: including as a senior Government Cabinet Minister and leadership roles in public and private sector organisations, Stuart brings a unique skill set and vast experience to his role as Commercial Director at Robert Walters. He is committed to driving sustainable success for organisations to thrive in today's dynamic talent landscape.
Stuart also brings a strategic and consultative lens to talent solutions and growth strategies. With expertise in organisational development and strategic planning, his approach is collaborative, data-driven, and results-oriented.
Oli Sanford-Scutt
Senior Director, Auckland
Oli Sanford-Scutt, Senior Director of Robert Walters Auckland, has 16+ years of leadership and specialist accountancy and executive recruitment experience. Specialising in executive-level roles across a wide range of industries, he provides an unparalleled level of service to both clients and candidates.
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Chrissy Orman
Executive Search Researcher, New Zealand
Chrissy is a Researcher in our national Executive Search team, specialising in identifying top-tier talent. She ensures a diverse, high-calibre candidate pool that aligns with clients' strategic needs and goals. Known for her proactive, personal approach, Chrissy builds trust-based relationships, combining market insights with a meticulous search process to connect the right people with the right opportunities. Passionate about executive search, she helps individuals advance their careers and supports businesses in securing exceptional leadership.
Partnerships & testimonials
Yule Alexander partnership
Utilisation of networks, skillsets and, most importantly, strategy can allow organisations to reach their unique potential. The exclusive partnership between Robert Walters & Yule Alexander is designed to enhance today's demand for finding the right Chief Executive for local government.
Robert Walters currently holds the largest market share of government related positions and Yule Alexander are local government experts with vast local government experience across New Zealand. This partnership ensures that local governments engage with the most competent, knowledgeable, and experienced team for executive search talent acquisition within New Zealand's local government sector.
Testimonials
Executive Search success stories
Real success stories from businesses and executives who found the right fit through Robert Walters Executive Search.
The team at Robert Walters were great, I had a number of roles to secure from varying parts of the business and in a relatively short time including our CEO. Robert Walters did a fantastic job of understanding who we are, what we are about and conveying this to candidates.
Having that central understanding made it easy to work across various roles and different specialist. The biggest challenge was picking from the shortlist of high calibre candidates that came through.
Investment
Iwi Investment & Consulting
The Robert Walters team worked very closely with us and our project team, providing support every step of the way including assisting with salary benchmarking, position description development and market analysis as well as traditional recruitment services. We value our relationship with Robert Walters, and I have no hesitation recommending them to any company.
Transport & Logistics
Rail Infrastructure
Robert Walters was engaged to manage the executive search for the new CEO of our company. The requirements for the role were challenging, as we are a NFP runs both community sports, elite competitive sports and two major facilities. Robert Walters was able to put together a high-quality shortlist of candidates. The successful candidate brought international sports administration experience and has been a good cultural fit for the organisation. We would recommend Robert Walters without qualification.
Sports & Recreation
Sporting Association
I wish to express my sincere gratitude for the exceptional recruiting services provided by the team at Robert Walters. Their professional and personalised approach played a pivotal role in my successful placement as a Chief Information and Digital Officer (CIDO).
The team's proactive communication, transparent feedback, and commitment to aligning my career goals with the CIDO role were truly impressive. Their efforts not only ensured a smooth onboarding process but also facilitated my seamless integration into the company.
I extend my thanks to the entire Robert Walters team for their vital support. Please convey this appreciation to the team as a testament to their commitment to excellence.
Transport & Logistics
Rail Transport
The team at Robert Walters were instrumental in the search, selection and shortlisting of candidates for board and subcommittee positions. Their extensive networks yielded perfect matches as well as non-traditional options which supported the diversity targets.
Sports & Recreation
National Sporting Association
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Our track record
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43,000
Executive professionals we help start their next chapter
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11,000
Organisations who we help acquire executive talent
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85%
Of professionals refer us to a friend
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90%
Of organisations recruit more than one role through us
Executive Search Capability Document
Contact us to discuss your executive recruitment needs
An award-winning service
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What are the benefits of partnering with an executive search firm?
Access to top talent: Partnering with an executive search firm provides access to exclusive networks and highly qualified candidates who aren't actively job hunting.
Industry expertise: Executive search companies offer deep industry insights and expert assessments, ensuring candidates are a perfect fit for your company culture.
Streamlined recruitment: These firms handle candidate screening, interviews, and assessments, significantly saving your organisation time and resources.
Strategic advantage: Utilising an executive hiring firm gives your company a competitive edge by quickly securing top executive talent ahead of your competitors.
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What industries in New Zealand do you specialise in for executive recruitment?
In New Zealand we specialise in executive search across a range of professional industries. Our expertise includes:
Finance: Recruiting top-tier finance executives such as CFOs, controllers, and treasurers to drive financial strategy and growth.
Corporate Leadership: Placing CEOs, COOs, and other senior executives who can lead and inspire across diverse sectors.
Technology: Identifying leaders like CTOs and IT directors to keep your organisation ahead in the tech landscape.
Healthcare: Sourcing administrators, chief medical officers, and healthcare CFOs to manage and grow healthcare organisations.
Manufacturing and Engineering: Placing executives like procurement managers, VPs of operations, and engineering directors to optimise efficiency and innovation.
Marketing and Sales: Finding dynamic CMOs, sales directors, and other leaders to boost business development and market presence.
Human Resources: Recruiting HR executives, including CHROs and HR directors, to foster organisational culture and drive HR strategies.
Public Sector: Sourcing Chief Executives and 2nd tier leaders across Central Government and Local Government throughout NZ.
Governance: Non-Exec Director appointments across a broad range of sectors
We operate in multiple locations across New Zealand, providing localised expertise with a global reach. Whether you're seeking a CFO in Auckland, a CEO in Wellington, or a Finance Executive in Christchurch, we have the resources to meet your needs.
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Can you assist with international executive searches?
Harnessing the strength of our international networks and management programs, we excel in conducting global executive searches. Our seasoned team possesses the expertise to navigate diverse talent pools worldwide, guaranteeing the identification of ideal candidates irrespective of geographical constraints. Our executive search recruitment boasts a network spanning over 30+ countries across continents and specialised knowledge in cross-cultural dynamics, we are fully equipped to meet your hiring needs on a global scale. -
How can I find data to benchmark salaries?
In the realm of executive search, our Salary Guide stands as a comprehensive guide to salaries and hiring trends in New Zealand. Drawing from the analysis of over 100,000 placements, encompassing permanent, interim, and contract roles, our survey offers in-depth insights into NZ-specific salary and benefits across various industries.
Request your copy of the Salary Survey guide to accurately benchmark salaries to attract and retain top talent.
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Can you assist with Interim Appointments?
We specialise in quickly identifying and placing highly qualified interim executives who will step in and make an immediate impact be it for a short-term project or bridging a leadership gap. -
What are the latest recruitment trends in executive search in New Zealand?
Organisations in New Zealand are redefining executive search trends as they adapt to rapidly evolving business environments. We have seen an increasing focus on leadership agility, with hiring managers prioritising candidates who can navigate digital disruption and drive sustainable growth. Companies are placing greater emphasis on cultural alignment and long-term strategic fit, ensuring that new executives contribute to both performance and organisational values. There is a heightened demand for data-driven insights that support transparent and informed decision-making, while diversity and inclusion remain key priorities. Additionally, flexible work arrangements and global talent pools are reshaping expectations, prompting organisations to broaden their search to secure leaders who can thrive in dynamic, ever-changing markets. This evolving landscape drives innovation. -
Which cities in New Zealand are emerging as hubs for top executive talent?
Auckland is New Zealand’s key hub for executive talent, home to major corporates and high-growth sectors like finance, technology, and infrastructure. Wellington follows with leadership demand in government and innovation, while Christchurch is growing in manufacturing, engineering, and technology.
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