New York companies hiring a CEO, CTO, or other C-suite leader usually turn to retained executive search, because a mis-hire at that level compounds quickly. In 2026, more NYC mandates ask for leaders who can modernize data and security while turning AI investment into measurable results.
This guide features seven executive search firms that New York companies commonly evaluate for board and C-suite roles, listed in alphabetical order. It is a practical shortlist for comparison rather than a ranking.
[Table 1]
What Makes NYC C-Suite Search Different
NYC searches, especially in technology and fintech, often carry tighter constraints than other markets. Regulation and legacy modernization shape many roles, and boards and investors weigh in on the hire alongside enterprise customers.
For many companies, agreeing internally on what the leader will own is harder than finding candidates. A strong search partner helps settle that before outreach begins.
A strong NYC search firm can:
- Define the role precisely, including scope, decision rights, and success metrics
- Map leaders who are performing well and not actively looking
- Test candidates for evidence of shipping and scaling
- Close with board alignment and well-structured compensation
- Protect confidentiality in successions and pre-announcement builds
Executive Search Firms in New York (In Alphabetical Order)
1. Christian & Timbers
Christian & Timbers runs retained executive search for technology and AI leadership, including CEO, CTO, Chief AI Officer, and AI Director roles, through its New York City executive search practice.
Best for: Tech C-suite searches where technical leadership needs to be assessed through an operator lens.
2. DHR Global
DHR Global runs executive search and leadership consulting across multiple industries, with work spanning board and C-suite placements.
Best for: Mid-market and enterprise C-suite searches across industries.
3. Egon Zehnder
Egon Zehnder combines executive search with leadership assessment and succession planning.
Best for: Board and CEO succession where leadership assessment carries heavy weight.
4. Heidrick & Struggles
Heidrick & Struggles pairs executive search with leadership advisory for board and C-suite appointments.
Best for: High-visibility C-suite searches tied to leadership team changes.
5. Korn Ferry
Korn Ferry combines executive search with assessment and leadership consulting across industries.
Best for: Enterprises that want search and assessment from one partner.
6. Russell Reynolds Associates
Russell Reynolds Associates runs retained executive search with a structured assessment process for senior leadership roles.
Best for: C-suite searches that rely on structured, data-supported assessment.
7. Spencer Stuart
Spencer Stuart focuses on board and CEO advisory alongside retained executive search across industries.
Best for: Board director recruiting and CEO succession.
How to Hire a C-Suite Recruiter in NYC
- Start with a role scorecard that sets out outcomes and the operating cadence the leader must run.
- Ask for a market map preview showing how the firm segments the talent pool.
- Review assessment rigor, including structured interviews and how references are run.
- Confirm who runs the search day to day and how often the team meets.
- Agree on the close plan, including compensation ranges and the board's decision process.
The right firm can show how it runs a search, beyond its client list.
What a Retained C-Suite Search Should Include
A retained C-suite search in New York should cover:
- Stakeholder calibration and role definition
- Market mapping with an outreach strategy
- Structured evaluation and referencing
- Compensation and closing support
- Onboarding check-ins tied to the scorecard
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the top C-suite recruiters in NYC?
New York companies commonly evaluate firms such as Christian & Timbers, Heidrick & Struggles, Korn Ferry, Russell Reynolds Associates, and Spencer Stuart for C-suite roles. The right choice depends on role type and confidentiality needs, along with the depth of assessment required.
Which executive search firms handle tech C-suite searches in NYC?
For tech C-suite executive search in NYC, the strongest partners evaluate technical leadership through an operating lens rather than keyword matching, with a track record in the company's technology stack and stage.
How much do C-level recruitment services cost in NYC?
Retained executive search in New York typically costs 25% to 33% of first-year cash compensation, often paid in staged installments. The bigger cost driver is mandate complexity, including candidate scarcity and the number of stakeholders who must align.
How long does a C-suite search take in New York?
Most retained C-suite searches take 60 to 120 days from kickoff to accepted offer, depending on role complexity and candidate scarcity.
Contacting Christian & Timbers
Companies planning a C-suite or board search in New York can contact Christian & Timbers at hello@christian-timbers.com to discuss the role.