Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct research and collaborate on executive-level searches in the tech sector.
- Company: Join a high-growth executive search firm renowned for its work with innovative tech companies.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, career progression, and wellness support.
- Other info: Participate in social events and CSR initiatives within a diverse culture.
- Why this job: Gain insights into leadership at exciting tech scale-ups while developing your professional network.
- Qualifications: 1+ years in executive search, strong research skills, and a collaborative mindset required.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Associate – Consumer
Location: London, United Kingdom
About the Role
A leading global leadership advisory and executive search firm is seeking a high-performing Research Associate to join its Consumer Practice in London. This role sits at the heart of the executive search and leadership advisory process, partnering closely with senior consultants to identify, assess, and engage exceptional leadership talent across the consumer ecosystem.
The successful candidate will contribute to high-impact mandates spanning sectors such as Consumer Goods, Retail, Luxury, E-commerce, Food & Beverage, Hospitality, and broader consumer services. The position offers strong exposure to C-suite search work, strategic market mapping, and leadership advisory assignments for leading international organisations.
Key Responsibilities
- Execute comprehensive market and company research to support executive search and leadership advisory projects
- Identify and evaluate senior executives and leadership talent across consumer industries
- Develop industry intelligence, competitor analyses, and talent landscape mapping
- Prepare client-ready materials including candidate profiles, market insights, and search progress updates
- Conduct candidate outreach and preliminary assessment conversations
- Maintain and strengthen relationships with executives, industry sources, and internal stakeholders
- Collaborate closely with consultants and wider research teams across international offices
- Monitor trends shaping the consumer sector, including digital transformation, sustainability, omnichannel retail, and evolving consumer behaviours
Candidate Profile
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent academic achievement required; postgraduate qualification advantageous
- Prior experience in executive search, strategy consulting, market intelligence, corporate research, or consumer industry analysis preferred
- Strong interest in consumer markets and leadership dynamics
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities
- Highly polished written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to synthesise complex information into concise, commercially relevant insights
- Strong stakeholder management and interpersonal skills
- Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Demonstrates discretion, professionalism, and sound judgement
Preferred Experience
Exposure to one or more of the following sectors would be advantageous:
- FMCG / Consumer Packaged Goods
- Retail and E-commerce
- Luxury and Fashion
- Food & Beverage
- Consumer Health and Wellness
- Hospitality and Leisure
What the Firm Offers
- Exposure to senior global business leaders and transformative leadership mandates
- A collaborative, international, and intellectually rigorous environment
- Structured professional development and mentorship
- Opportunity to build deep sector expertise within the Consumer Practice
- Competitive compensation and benefits package
Ideal Candidate Attributes
- Curious and intellectually driven
- Commercially aware with strong business acumen
- Collaborative and team-oriented
- Resilient, adaptable, and proactive
- Passionate about leadership and talent identification
Contact Detail:
Carlin Hall Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Search
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in the tech industry, especially in sectors like AI, cybersecurity, fintech, and SaaS. This knowledge will not only help you understand the landscape but also impress potential employers during networking opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Build a strong professional network within the tech ecosystem. Attend industry events, webinars, and meetups to connect with professionals and leaders in the field. This can lead to valuable insights and potential referrals for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Develop your research skills by practising how to map talent landscapes effectively. Use platforms like LinkedIn to identify and engage with high-level talent, which is crucial for the role of an Associate in Executive Search.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to demonstrate your analytical and problem-solving abilities in conversations with potential employers. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you've tackled in previous roles and how you approached them, as this will showcase your fit for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Search
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Associate position in Executive Search. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the job description.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise any previous experience in executive search or related fields, particularly within technology or innovation-driven sectors. Use specific examples to demonstrate your research and analytical skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the tech industry and your motivation to solve complex challenges. Mention your collaborative mindset and how you can contribute to the firm's success.
Proofread Your Application: Ensure your CV and cover letter are free from errors and clearly formatted. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Carlin Hall
✨Research the Company and Its Clients
Before your interview, dive deep into the firm's background and its clients in the tech sector. Understanding their values, recent projects, and the types of companies they partner with will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Since the role requires strong research and analytical skills, prepare to discuss specific examples where you've successfully solved complex problems. Highlight your thought process and how it led to effective solutions in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess your communication and interpersonal abilities. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, showcasing how you've collaborated with teams or engaged with high-level talent in the past.
✨Demonstrate a Growth Mindset
The firm values a collaborative and growth-oriented mindset. Be ready to discuss how you approach learning and development, and share examples of how you've sought feedback and improved your skills in previous positions.