Chicago Executive Recruiters
Premier Chicago executive search firm helping businesses find their next great leaders
Chicago's Top Executive Search Firm
Keller Executive Search is widely recognized as one of the leading executive recruiters in Chicago. We specialize in finding transformational leaders for a wide range of industries and C-suite roles, including CEO, COO, and CFO positions.
Our headhunters in Chicago work with organizations of various sizes, from startups to Fortune 500 companies. They have a deep understanding of Chicago’s business environment and the complexities of hiring for executive leadership positions.
We tailor our search services to meet our clients’ unique needs, challenges, and corporate culture, making sure they get access to the right candidates. Our proven track record of successful placements, extensive experience, and partnership with NPAworldwide make Keller Executive Search one of the best executive search firms in Chicago.
The Chicago Executive Talent Market
There are 36 Fortune 500 headquarters in Chicago, which makes it the third-largest city in the US for major corporate headquarters. Boeing, Caterpillar, Abbott Laboratories, Baxter International, Allstate, and McDonald’s are some of the main companies that hire executives.
In the Chicago metropolitan area, there are more than 4.7 million jobs. The most demand for executive leadership is in financial services, manufacturing, healthcare, technology, consumer goods, and professional services. Depending on the industry and the size of the company, the average pay for C-suite executives in Chicago ranges from $285,000 for a VP to more than $1.2 million for a CEO.
Our Chicago executive search service covers the whole city, from the Loop and River North to the West Loop and Magnificent Mile, as well as business centers in the suburbs like Naperville, Schaumburg, Oak Brook, and Evanston. We help people in Cook County, DuPage County, Lake County, Will County, Kane County, and McHenry County.
Successful Placements in Chicago
Chief Financial Officer
Manufacturing Company
Chief Operating Officer
Healthcare Organization
Chief Technology Officer
Financial Technology Company
Chief Human Resources Officer
Consumer Goods Company
General Counsel
Financial Services Firm
Chief Executive Officer
Food and Beverage Company
Vice President of Supply Chain
Industrial Distribution Company
Chief Marketing Officer
E-Commerce Company
Chief Revenue Officer
Software as a Service Company
Our Executive Search Process
During Keller Executive Search’s formative years, we quickly realized that a generic recruitment approach that only looks at qualifications and not leadership style or cultural fit rarely works for senior recruitment. This knowledge is the foundation of our current search method.
We use a transparent, partner-led approach that focuses on getting to know our client company’s culture, values, and leadership challenges, making sure candidates align with these elements for long-term success. We provide support throughout the entire recruitment process, from talent sourcing to onboarding.
Role Definition
Our recruitment consultants meet with the client, hiring managers, and important stakeholders to understand the specific needs of the business. They also define the role requirements, objectives, and salary range. With this information, we craft a comprehensive role scorecard for identifying top performers and making objective hiring decisions.
Research
We conduct in-depth market mapping to find out where individuals with key skills currently work, benchmark compensation, and gather data on industry trends. We use this metrics-based methodology to proactively identify and attract qualified executive talent, including active and passive candidates, which saves time and gives our client a competitive advantage.
Assessment
We go beyond basic resume screening, using data-driven strategies such as behavioral and competency-based interviews to find the best person for the job. Our consultants also leverage AI-powered recruitment tools to analyze, rank, and shortlist candidates, allowing us to focus on the top talent instead of wasting time manually sifting through resumes.
Presentation and Offer Management
Our executive recruiters compile a shortlist and detailed reports on the most suitable candidates for the position. We present these to the client, who has the final say on who they want to hire. To help the parties come to a close, our consultants remain available to give advice, answer questions, and address any issues that could hinder offer acceptance.
Beyond Placement
While ours primary goal is delivering executive search solutions, we also offer strategic leadership advisory and consulting services to help build sustainable talent pipelines and promote long-term retention. Some of our services include succession planning, risk and compliance management, and compensation and benefits consulting.
Keller Executive Search offers access to the top executive recruiters in Chicago. Contact us today to begin your search.
Our Executive Search Expertise
Chicago’s competitive business landscape demands executive recruiters with an in-depth knowledge of local nuances. The city is a hub for corporate banking, private equity, wealth management, and fintech, as well as logistics, transportation, engineering, and technology.
Our team consists of dedicated professionals with nearly two decades of combined hands-on experience in executive search, representing a wide variety of industries. Their expertise allows us to provide leadership solutions to public, private, pre-IPO, and nonprofit organizations in various sectors.
Some Areas We Specialize In
- Consumer and Retail Markets
- Energy and Natural Resources
- Engineering and Manufacturing
- Financial Services and Investment
- Healthcare and Life Sciences
- IT, Technology, and Digital Innovation
- Professional and Business Services
- Public and Nonprofit Sectors
- Real Estate and Construction
Examples of Roles We Recruit For
Keller Executive Search’s team excels at finding the right people for a range of high-level jobs. We cover the entire C-suite, including Chief Executive Officers, Chief Financial Officers, and Chief Operating Officers. We also help appoint vice presidents, board members, and directors. Our headhunters know that the right leader can drive organizational excellence, while a mis-hire can result in significant losses in productivity, resources, and revenue. That’s why we partner closely with companies to find the best fit.
Keep reading to discover our exclusive Insights below and get advice on various topics related to HR and recruitment.
Why Choose Keller Executive Search In Chicago?
We know the importance of understanding a client’s organizational culture for a successful search, and strive to find individuals who will fit in with existing teams. Our expert consultants look beyond credentials to consider work ethic, emotional intelligence, and other aspects that make a great leader. We also keep searches inclusive and free from unconscious bias.
Keller Executive Search simplifies the executive search process with our vast network and industry expertise. We maintain transparent communication, acting as strategic advisors who provide regular, detailed progress reports and market intelligence. With our help, you can get the talent you need to achieve sustainable success.
Our Promise
Part of our mission is to protect user data when organizations put their trust in us. Each of our searches is conducted ethically, responsibly, and confidentially, with respect for the safety and privacy of our clientele. We follow strict non-disclosure agreements and we have an off-limits policy against poaching talent from our clients’ workforce.
Although we focus on finding the right person for our client, we acknowledge that circumstances can change. The chosen candidate may no longer be available for the role or fall short of expectations. We offer a 365-day replacement program for these situations, which allows us to find another suitable individual to fill the role.
Contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our experts.
Speak to a Consultant
Gretchen Shreve
HR Talent Acquisition Specialist
Gretchen has over 20 years of experience in human resources and talent acquisition across multiple industries and markets. She has partnered with organizations from high-growth startups to Fortune 500 companies, recruiting across C-suite, engineering, operations, and corporate functions.
Client Testimonials
"We were very impressed with Keller Executive Search's all-around approach. This is the second time we've worked with them, and they really know how to find the best people for the job."
- Mike J., Head of Recruitment
"We appreciate Keller Executive Search's commitment to getting to know our needs and how our business works. They keep sending us great candidates."
- David T., HR Director
"We trust Keller Executive Search and keep going back to them for their strategic approach to hiring. We owe a lot of our success to Keller's team, and we are very happy with the quality of the candidates they send us."
- Anita H., Senior HR Manager
Our Office in Chicago
Address: 332 S Michigan Ave Suite #121- 2161, Chicago, IL, 60604
Phone: 1-888-202-9809
Inquiry Sent
Case Studies
Rebuilding The Brief Mid-Search To Meet The Accounting Standard
Selection followed the refined brief, and the top candidate accepted soon after receiving the final terms. The onboarding process proceeded as scheduled, with no further pre-employment verification being requested. Keller Executive Search identified a manufacturing accountant whose experience matched the current operating needs of the team. Stronger day-to-day oversight can now coexist with a longer-term plan for continuity in finance leadership. Succession is still possible, but credibility will first have to be built through detailed accounting, ownership, and consistent support for factory operations.
One Working Leader To Unify Five Department Heads
An offer was made and, after the candidate had some time to review it, the letter was returned signed. Pre-employment background and drug screening were conducted before the appointment was confirmed, as well as credit and education verification. Keller Executive Search placed the company’s first General Manager, who now provides the plant with unified leadership over its five reporting managers for the first time.
The Support Structure
An offer was made and accepted, background checks were done, and placement confirmed. The organization hired a full-time administrative professional with the financial, HR, and operational experience the new position required. Keller Executive Search placed an Office Manager with the ability to fulfill the operational needs of the client and help evolve their internal processes.
Keller Executive Search in the Press
How To Find a Job That Lets You Work and Travel At The Same Time
Keller Executive Search Senior Recruiter Julia Yurchak gives advice on how to land jobs that allow employees to travel and work in an article for VoM News. The article, “Work and Travel? Expert Shares How to Find a Job That Lets You Do Both”, includes a guide on how to achieve the digital nomad lifestyle and stand out in this competitive landscape. Some strategies Julia mentioned that will allow you to travel the world while pursuing a career include: Freelancing or consulting: Travelling while you work requires some flexibility in your work schedule. Freelancing platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and Freelancer...
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More Employees Say They Want To Work Remotely: Why Employers Should Offer Flexible Work Arrangements
Senior Recruitment Consultant Julia Yurchak of Keller Executive Search was quoted in a National Daily Press article about the rising demand among employees for employers to offer more opportunities for remote work. In the article, “Why Employers Must Offer Remote Work – 70% of Candidates Say It’s a Top Priority”, Julia gave insights into why remote work options have become so important for employers trying to attract skilled employees. Julia shared some flexible working options businesses can consider where fully remote roles aren’t an option. Julia made the following important points in her commentary: Improved work-life balance and job satisfaction:...
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US TikTok Ban Could Hurt Both Influencers and the Economy
Spokesperson for Keller Executive Search, Ami Mandel, commented on the looming US ban on TikTok in an article for the International Business Times, “US Ban On TikTok Won’t Only Affect Influencers, It Could Impact The Economy Too”. He also discussed the potential consequences the ban could have on business relationships, customer engagement, and sales. Some highlights from the article: At the time of writing, TikTok had 100 million regular users in the United States. About 65% were full-time content creators. Brands promoting their products on TikTok reported sales growth of more than 100%. US lawmakers stepped up efforts to restrict...
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30 Dallas Staffing Agencies and Recruiting Firms You Should Know
Keller Executive Search was featured on Built In in a list of the top 30 staffing agencies and recruiting firms in Dallas. Partnering with a professional recruiting firm, even in a strong labor market, can be beneficial for both job seekers and employers. These firms often have direct contact with hiring managers for current and future job openings and industry-specific expertise. If you’re looking to grow your team in Dallas, Keller Executive Search identifies and appoints candidates for tech positions in various sectors, such as blockchain, SaaS, and IoT. It boasts a global database of candidates for executive search and...
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What to Do When You Evaluate Job Offers
In an article published on The Muse’s website in 2024, Keller Executive Search weighed in on how to evaluate a job offer, request more time to consider your options, and negotiate the offer. To make sure a job fits your professional goals, your idea of a good balance between work and your personal life, and your salary expectations, The Muse explains how important it is to take the time to truly consider any job offer you receive and pay attention to the details. Julia Yurchak, Keller Executive Search’s senior recruitment consultant, suggests taking between 24 and 48 hours to consider...
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The Benefits and Downsides of Transparency in Business
Talent sourcing, acquisition and management specialist at Keller Executive Search Julia Yurchak commented on how to make your business more transparent in an article for Business.com, “How To Instill More Transparency In Your Business”, and the benefits of doing so. The article discussed when it is appropriate and beneficial to be transparent, as well as when sharing everything with all stakeholders can do more harm than good. In the past, only the owners and CEOs of privately-owned companies knew what was going on behind the scenes. Employees did not receive access to this information, supposedly to prevent internal conflict over...
Read MoreFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Executive Search and Recruitment?
Are Executive Recruiters Worth It?
What Happens if We Cannot Fill a Role?
Your Premier HR Partner
Tailored Excellence
Our dedicated senior consultants provide attention to detail at every stage of the search process, ensuring tailored results that exceed expectations
Nationwide / Global Talent Acquisition
Leveraging our extensive network, we identify and attract world-class leadership candidates from diverse backgrounds and locations
HR Advisory Services
We offer expert advice to optimize HR processes, boost efficiency, reduce workload, and increase employee retention and engagement.
Fast Turnaround time
Our consultants expedite searches, cutting time-to-hire while securing the best talent available.
Comprehensive Solutions
Beyond recruitment, we provide value-added services from organizational health to leadership development programs
Our Search Practices
We follow the highest industry standards when searching for talent for its clients.
Replacement Program
We contractually commit to replacing any hire that doesn't meet expectations.
Industry-Leading Assessments
We provide thorough evaluations, including personality insights, for shortlisted candidates.
Off-Limits Protection
We protect our clients' interests by marking their entire company workforce off-limits for our candidate sourcing. We prioritize your business excellence.
Dedicated Points of Contact
Every client has two points of contact. An account manager and a senior consultant This ensures fast & continued response
Unbiased Third-Party References
We conduct extensive background checks, covering credit, education, criminal, and employment history. We also perform security checks when needed.
