Quo Vadis Executive Search?

Published
May 23, 2025
Quo Vadis Executive Search?
Artificial intelligence in executive search - where do we stand today, what will the near future bring? At the global Kestria conference in Budapest, Sandro Eggimann, Partner at Viavanta, presented the concrete benefits of artificial intelligence in the recruitment process to over 80 representatives of international executive search boutiques and showed how Viavanta successfully utilises AI. Picture: Bendik Myhre, Kestria Norwegen und Sandro Eggimann

AI in Executive Search 

Particularly in the areas of sourcing and interview preparation, we save a lot of time with the help of AI. By using transcription and analysis tools, we have been able to reduce the effort for interview preparation, execution, and follow-up by up to 47 percent. We dedicate the resources we gain to what Executive Search is fundamentally about: personal dialogue.

Our experience shows: AI does not replace us. But consultants who do not use AI are increasingly being overtaken by those who effectively integrate these tools into their processes.

The key difference remains the ability to listen, interpret, contextualize, and match people with organizations where they truly belong.

After Sandro's presentation, owners of international Executive Search firms discussed the changes that the increasing use of AI will bring to our industry. There was consensus that technological support accelerates many administrative processes. However, the critical skills of the future remain human-centric.

What is needed is not only a basic understanding of technology but above all critical thinking, contextual sensitivity, and consultancy expertise.

Future-proof Executive Search firms will define themselves through their real added value, like us, through independent consultancy, negotiation skills, market overview, and psychological sensitivity.

“Those who understand AI as a tool and keep people at the center will remain relevant in the future.” Viavanta is advancing this topic and benefits from the experiences and projects of the global network - and from Sandro Eggimann's role as Global AI Ambassadors Leader at Kestria.

Sandro Eggimann / Partner