Principal - Executive Search

Principal Connections is a leading executive search and board advisory firm, serving organisations across Ireland and the United Kingdom.
We are also part of Agilium Worldwide LLC (est. 1984), one of the world's top global executive search groups, with 55 offices in 30 countries and more than 250 consultants.
We work exclusively on a retained basis with a wide range of organisations - from large multinationals, SMEs, start-ups, and family-owned enterprises to not-for-profits, semi-state bodies, and public-sector organisations.
Our services span senior executive, CEO, interim, and board-level search, complemented by a full suite of leadership consulting solutions.
PURPOSE Reporting to the Managing Partner and working as part of a collaborative, high performance consulting team, the purpose of this important position is to identify, assess and recruit elite senior leadership talent across a broad spectrum of client companies.
The Principal will also play a key role in the continued development of the firm through targeted business development and participating in business growth initiatives.
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES Lead executive search assignments end-to-end, managing the full lifecycle of critical leadership appointments.
Build strong client partnerships, aligning talent strategies with organisational goals.
Source senior and specialist talent through market mapping, headhunting, and research-driven methods.
Evaluate candidates with rigor using interviews, assessments, and references to ensure alignment of skills, values, and culture.
Provide a discreet, high-quality candidate experience throughout career-defining transitions.
Achieve and exceed agreed performance targets while contributing to business growth.
Represent the firm at industry events and drive strategic business development opportunities.
Maintain accurate reporting, compliance, and governance standards.
Additional Responsibilities Stay ahead of industry trends and adapt priorities to meet evolving client needs.
Deliver exceptional service to both clients and candidates at every stage of the process.
Contribute to a collaborative, high-performance team culture.
Build sector expertise to strengthen insights and advisory impact.
Support the continued growth and visibility of the Principal Connections brand.
Take on additional responsibilities as required, reflecting the evolving needs of the firm.
PERSON SPECIFICATION Experience: Proven track record of success in executive search or senior-level recruitment.
Demonstrated ability to secure and deliver high-level assignments from initiation through completion.
Education: Relevant Degree, Masters, MBA or Professional Qualification Skills & Competencies: Relationship Building and Networking Communicating and Influencing Quality and Service Excellence Leadership and Commercial Acumen Motivation and Results Orientation Tenacity and Resilience Team Player and Independence Collaboration and Self-Management Attention to Detail Planning and Organising Problem Solving and Judgement Flexibility, Adaptability and Initiative Information Technology: Proficient IT skills including Microsoft Office Familiarity with Databases and CRM systems Proficient with Social Media Channels Other: Positive attitude, championing a 'can-do' perspective with colleagues Share our values and work ethic REMUNERATION A competitive remuneration package will be offered to the successful candidate.
The role offers flexibility and may be performed on a remote or hybrid basis, depending on location.
HOW TO APPLY If you believe that you meet the requirements necessary to take on this important role, please submit a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae via the available 'Apply Option' in strictest confidence.
For a confidential discussion please contact Pat O'Donnell, Managing Partner on.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Principal Connections is acting as an employment agency and has been retained to manage this important appointment process.
We are committed to a policy of equal opportunity and encourage applications under all nine grounds of the Employment Equality Act.
Candidates for this post will be sourced through both an advertised selection and executive search process.
Only applications submitted through the available online application options or via the email address provided where a print advertisement will be considered.
Please note that any offer of employment will be made subject to satisfactory reference checks as well as any other background checks and/or assessments deemed appropriate to the process.
By applying for this vacancy with Principal Connections, you accept the Term's & Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Cookies Policy which can be found on our website.
ABOUT PRINCIPAL CONNECTIONS Principal Connections is a leading executive search and leadership consulting firm serving organisations across Ireland, the United Kingdom and internationally.
We are also part of Agilium Worldwide LLC (Est. 1984), independently ranked one of the world's top global executive search groups.
(55+ offices, 30+ countries, 250+ consultants).
Visit our other Live Assignments Skills: Executive Search Recruitment