Retained executive search in Singapore.
MCI Career Services conducts exclusive, retainer-funded searches for C-suite and senior leadership appointments, based on a full mapping of the candidate market.
Delivered by MCI Career Services, part of MCI Group of Companies.
How retained search is structured.
Retained search is used for C-suite and other senior leadership appointments and is engaged exclusively through an upfront retainer. The retainer funds the depth of the search: mapping every person who could fill the role, approaching those who are not seeking a move, and assessing them before they are presented to you.
Exclusivity is as important as the fee structure. When several firms work on a leadership search at the same time, the market learns that you are hiring, the firms present overlapping candidates, and none of them has reason to map the market thoroughly. A single firm holding the mandate is responsible for the complete search.
Key benefits
Exclusive mandate
A single firm conducts the search and is responsible for mapping the market in full.
Passive candidates
The search reaches senior leaders who are not seeking a new role and would not respond to an advertisement.
Assessed before shortlist
Each candidate is evaluated against the mandate in a structured assessment before being presented.
Confidential throughout
Discretion is maintained for both parties from engagement to offer negotiation.
How it works
Engage and scope
The mandate, the retainer and the objectives of the appointment are agreed.
Map the market
The consultant identifies everyone who could fill the role, including those who would not apply.
Approach and assess
Candidates are approached discreetly and then assessed against the mandate.
Close and transition
The consultant manages offer negotiation and acceptance, and supports the candidate through to the start date.
Common questions
How is retained search charged?
Retained search is charged as an upfront retainer fee, agreed at the point of engagement, in return for which MCI Career Services works the search exclusively.
How does it differ from executive search?
Executive search is engaged on a placement-fee basis. Retained search is exclusive and retainer-funded, which supports the deeper mapping and assessment that C-suite and senior leadership appointments require.
Which roles is it suited to?
Retained search suits C-suite and other senior leadership appointments, particularly where the strongest candidates are not actively seeking a new role.
Why pay a retainer rather than a fee on placement?
The retainer pays for work that is carried out whether or not a placement results: mapping the whole market, approaching candidates who are not looking, and assessing them properly. A contingent fee cannot justify that depth of work, so contingent searches at this level tend to present only the candidates who are already available.
Does MCI Career Services work the search exclusively?
Yes. Exclusivity is a condition of every retained search engagement.
What if the appointment is never made?
The retainer covers the work rather than the outcome, so that risk remains with the client. If the mapping shows that the role cannot be filled on the agreed terms, the consultant informs you at that stage.