Modular Search
The Challenge
Today's Talent and HR leaders are expected to achieve more with less
Whether navigating transformation, scaling new models, or filling strategic roles, the pressure is constant, and so is the need for agility.
At Manners Maclean, we’ve reimagined executive search to meet this challenge. Modular Search provides high-impact support exactly when you need it, without committing to a full search.
From talent data mapping to confidential engagement, shortlisting, or final-stage support, we embed seamlessly alongside your team.
This is executive search, made modular.
Explore Our Modular Search Approach
Our Modular Search model deconstructs executive hiring into four high-impact modules, letting you access the support you need, exactly when you need it.
Click on the module to find out more.
Data Intelligence
Real Intelligence, Not Just Algorithms
We harness AI-powered tools to map the external talent landscape, while our senior researchers apply human judgement to ensure accuracy and relevance.
This isn’t just a list of names, but actionable insight into the right organisations, key leaders, and team structures across functions, geographies, and critical capability areas.
What we deliver:
- Map of relevant organisations and leadership structures
- Verified talent data by key criteria
- Talent mapping to support hiring, succession, or change
- Longlist of up to 300 candidates (search dependent)
Use this when:
You need to understand the external market before entering a new region, validating internal talent, or planning for future growth.
Strategic Outreach
Targeted Conversations, Done Discreetly
We align with you on who to approach, then conduct discreet outreach under your chosen brand. From a broad map, we refine to around 50 top profiles, qualifying each against agreed criteria for experience, seniority, and fit, with profiles reflecting all non-negotiables established at the outset.
What we deliver:
- Prioritised list of ~50 high-potential candidates
- Agreed target profile and outreach criteria
- Confidential outreach and early fit qualification
- Longlist of aligned, engaged individuals for deeper evaluation
Use this when:
You need discreet, early conversations with high-calibre talent to assess interest and market fit, without committing to a full search.
Assessment
From Longlist to Strategic Leadership Match
Turning a longlist into a shortlist requires more than checking experience boxes. We assess leadership fit, behavioural traits, and adaptability to your unique context. Through a tailored, insight-led process, we evaluate up to 50 candidates and deliver a focused shortlist of five, backed by clear evidence on who to progress.
What we deliver:
- Evaluation of leadership style, behaviours, and core competencies
- Cultural fit assessment tailored to your organisation
- Review of track record and measurable impact
- Soft referencing to confirm performance and credibility
- Shortlist of five high-potential candidates with evidence-led insights
Use this when:
You have a broad talent pool and need a rigorous, objective process to identify those with the highest potential, whether sourced internally, externally, or through an RPO or agency.
Selection
Closing the Right Candidate, the Right Way
At the final stage of a senior hire, we reduce attrition risk by maintaining clarity and momentum. We manage sensitive conversations, coach through resignations and counter offers, and keep candidates engaged. We also handle negotiation, aligning expectations to support a smooth, successful close for both client and candidate.
What we deliver:
- Independent view to address hesitation and maintain momentum
- Offer presentation and expectation alignment for best outcomes
- Ongoing engagement through long processes and notice periods
- Final referencing to confirm fit and minimise risk
Use this when:
Managing final-stage hiring, keeping candidates engaged, and ensuring a smooth transition without setbacks, even with long notice periods or competing offers.
The how
Modular Search complements your existing talent infrastructure. Whether partnering with in-house TA, RPOs, or business leaders, we integrate seamlessly to strengthen areas where extra expertise or bandwidth is needed.๏ปฟ
CLIENTS COME TO US WHEN:
- They need objective data to guide hiring decisions
- Discretion is key and early engagement must stay under the radar
- Potential candidates need expert validation and shortlisting
- Final hiring stages require support through to offer negotiation
More than a flexible search model.
๏ปฟIt’s a strategic extension of your talent function, wherever you need it most.
THE TYPICAL QUESTIONS WE ARE ASKED
FAQ's
01
Can I combine modules?
Absolutely. Start with Mapping, then move to Outreach or Assessment. Use one or all modules, we adapt to your needs.
02
Will candidates know you’re representing us?
Only if you want. We tailor each approach to your confidentiality needs, ensuring GDPR-compliant outreach with the right discretion.
03
What if we already have an in-house TA function?
We support internal teams with specialist expertise, extra bandwidth, and fresh market insight to strengthen and streamline your hiring process.
04
Can we use this alongside an RPO or agency?
Yes. Many clients use Modular Search alongside RPO or agency support, especially when discretion, senior expertise, or market insight is needed.
05
Is this more cost-effective than a full search?
Often, yes. More importantly, it gives you control, you pay only for the support you need, exactly when you need it.
06
How do you ensure quality if the process is modular?
Each module is led by senior search professionals to full search standards. The difference lies in flexibility, never in quality.
07
Is this a lower quality version of search?
No. It’s a smarter model, high-quality search in focused modules, so you only pay for what you truly need.
08
Can we upgrade to a full search if needed?
Yes. If scope grows, we can seamlessly shift to full search, building on the groundwork already completed for smooth continuity.
Built for Today’s Talent Landscape
If you're exploring smarter, more flexible ways to secure leadership talent, we’d be pleased to discuss how Modular Search can support your team.
