A guide to making one of the most important decisions for your organization—with insights from Portland’s own Acumen Executive Search.
By Tanis Moris
Hiring executive leadership is one of the most consequential moves a company can make. A strong CEO, CFO, or VP doesn’t just guide strategy—they shape culture, unlock growth, and often redefine what success looks like. In Portland’s purpose-driven, innovation-forward economy, choosing the right executive search partner can make all the difference.
With nearly two decades of experience helping Pacific Northwest organizations identify and hire transformational leaders, Acumen Executive Search has developed a deeply informed, values-aligned methodology. Below, we share what we’ve learned—whether you partner with us or another firm—so you can make the right choice for your organization.
1. Start with Strategic Clarity
Before engaging a search firm, take the time to clarify:
- What will this leader truly be responsible for driving?
- How will their success be measured?
- What kind of leadership style fits your culture?
The most effective search engagements start with alignment. That’s why Acumen begins every project with an in-depth discovery phase—interviewing stakeholders, learning the company’s story, and helping you sharpen your vision. This ensures we’re not just filling a role, but finding someone who can thrive and lead effectively in your environment.
2. Ask About Their Process—And Their Philosophy
Not all executive search processes are created equal. The best firms use a refined, consultative approach that balances analytical rigor with cultural intuition. Look for a process that includes:
- Deep discovery to understand business goals and culture
- Confidential outreach to high-caliber, passive candidates
- Structured interviews and behavioral assessments
- Support and onboarding guidance
At Acumen, our process has been shaped by hundreds of successful placements and continuous learning. Our focus isn’t just on filling a position—it’s on ensuring that every placement creates long-term impact for the organization.
4. Evaluate Track Record and Industry Alignment
Past performance is often the best predictor of future results. Ask firms about:
- Roles they’ve filled recently
- Industries they specialize in
- Client references or testimonials
Acumen has placed senior leaders in a wide range of sectors, including:
- A mission-driven healthcare provider needing a turnaround CEO
- A PE-backed manufacturer transitioning to professional leadership
- A high-growth AI company’s first VP of People and Culture
What sets us apart is not just industry knowledge, but our ability to match leadership style to organizational culture and stage.
5. Prioritize Communication, Transparency, and Partnership
The right executive search partner should act as an extension of your leadership team. That means:
- Clear, consistent communication
- Willingness to challenge assumptions constructively
- A collaborative, high-integrity approach
We often hear from clients that working with Acumen feels “different”—more personal, more thoughtful, and more aligned. We attribute that to our commitment to listening first and our belief that every search is a leadership journey, not a transaction.
6. Understand the Investment—and the Guarantee
Executive search typically operates on a retained-fee model, based on a percentage of the executive’s first-year compensation. While cost is an important factor, value should be the true measure.
When considering investment:
- Ask about the search timeline
- Understand the firm’s placement guarantee
- Clarify what’s included in post-hire support
Acumen offers a comprehensive guarantee, and we remain actively engaged during onboarding and beyond to ensure long-term success.
7. Get Referrals—and Trust Your Instincts
Recommendations from board members, investors, or peers are a great place to start. But always dig deeper:
- Review the firm’s case studies and testimonials
- Assess how well they understand your goals in the initial call
- Pay attention to how they listen and engage
The right search partner will feel like a fit—strategically, culturally, and relationally.
Final Thoughts: Leadership Is a Legacy Decision
Hiring a leader isn’t just about filling a position—it’s about shaping your future. The right executive can accelerate innovation, unify your team, and elevate your organization’s visibility and impact.
At Acumen Executive Search, we’re proud to help companies throughout the Pacific Northwest and beyond hire leaders who aren’t just capable, but aligned, purpose-driven, and ready to make a difference.
Whether you’re preparing for your next big hire or simply want to better understand how to approach executive search strategically, we’re always happy to share what we’ve learned.
Be sure to check out our Hiring for Good Podcast!