How Much Does Retained Executive Search Cost?

“Retained executive search typically costs between 25% and 33% of the placed candidate's first-year total compensation, paid in three installments: one-third at engagement, one-third at candidate presentation, and one-third at placement. For a CFO role with a $300,000 package, that is a fee of roughly $75,000 to $100,000, covering research, sourcing, assessment, reference checks, and a replacement guarantee.”