HCSA GROUP PTY LTD · 25 OCTOBER 2026
How to brief an executive search before the shortlist
Define the mandate, success measures, operating context and package parameters so a leadership search addresses the business problem.
01
Describe the business outcome
Write down what the appointment needs to change over the first year. Use concrete outcomes and constraints that candidates and assessors can discuss.
02
Clarify authority and interfaces
Set out the reporting line, decision rights, budget responsibility, team scope and important relationships. Ambiguity here often appears later as a mismatch in expectations.
03
Agree evidence for assessment
Decide how relevant experience, judgement and leadership will be evaluated. Apply consistent criteria and distinguish supported evidence from impressions.
04
Scope the search market
Discuss the sectors, locations and adjacent experience that could produce suitable candidates. Confirm which requirements are essential and which can be developed.
05
Set package parameters early
Clarify guaranteed pay, incentives, location requirements and approval authority. Qualify any benchmark used to justify a package and keep affordability visible.
06
Prepare the appointment decision
The shortlist should help the hiring team compare evidence against the agreed mandate, identify open questions and explain the selected appointment.