Retained & Executive Search

Critical leadership hires demand more than speed.

They demand method.

Retained & Executive Search

Critical leadership hires demand more than speed.

They demand method.

A modern approach to executive search

Many executive search firms still rely on static networks, legacy processes and slow timelines. Method takes a different approach.


We operate a contemporary, highly connected executive search model designed for today’s leadership market. Backed by enterprise-grade research, technology and market intelligence, our team maintains constant visibility of senior and C-suite talent across industries.


By combining the reach and rigour of a large search operation with the agility and care of a boutique firm, we deliver executive appointments with precision, pace and purpose.

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Our Retained Search Method

Our retained search model is designed to remove risk from critical leadership appointments.



With clear governance, structure and accountability at every stage, our approach is proactive by design. We map leadership markets continuously, engage executives well ahead of need, and act with precision when alignment is clear — reducing time-to-appoint without compromising rigour.

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Role & Leadership Definition

Clarifying success measures, capability requirements and leadership behaviours.

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Confidential Market Mapping & Direct Search

Discreet, market-wide identification and engagement of high-calibre, often passive leaders.

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Rigorous Assessment & Shortlisting

Consistent, evidence-based evaluation against role requirements, cultural alignment and future-state needs.

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Offer Strategy & Negotiation

Managing offer design, alignment and negotiation to secure commitment while protecting confidentiality.

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Onboarding & Transition Support

Supporting successful integration, engagement and long-term impact beyond appointment.

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Diversity-Led Search Design

Intentional expansion of candidate pools using structured, bias-aware search practices to support inclusive leadership outcomes.

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Leadership Roles We Cover

Our retained search capability spans leadership and specialist appointments across:


  • Executive & C-Suite
  • Technology & Transformation Leadership
  • Finance & Commercial Leadership
  • Risk, Compliance & Governance
  • Sales, Marketing & Growth Leadership
  • People & Culture Leadership


Each search is tailored to the organisation’s scale, maturity and strategic priorities, not driven by job titles alone.

Client Success

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Fast-tracked IT leadership for Housing Choices Australia

A business-critical Head of IT hire, without the drawn-out process or inflated cost. Method took full ownership of the brief, combining market insight with targeted search to deliver a high-quality, values-aligned shortlist. Fast, focused and without compromise.

When Retained Search Makes Sense

Retained search is the right model when leadership decisions demand focus, discretion and certainty. We don’t run multiple searches at once. We commit fully to the outcome.


Method is engaged when organisations need confidence, not volume.

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Executive, board or C-suite appointments

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Highly specialised or business-critical leadership roles

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Confidential or sensitive replacements

Diversity, Inclusion & Modern Leadership

Diversity and inclusion are critical to effective governance, risk management and long-term organisational performance. Leadership teams that reflect broader perspectives are better positioned to navigate complexity, drive innovation and deliver sustainable outcomes.


Method embeds diversity and inclusion into every retained executive search through structured, evidence-based processes. Our capability is strengthened by Jane Bithell, Associate Director of Diversity & Inclusion, who brings over 15 years’ experience across executive recruitment, diversity strategy and inclusive workforce design in the Australian market.


Working alongside our search partners, Jane supports market mapping, shortlist calibration and decision-making to ensure leadership appointments are rigorous, inclusive and aligned to future-state requirements — without compromising on capability or performance.


For clients, this provides confidence that executive appointments are made with appropriate governance, independence and a modern leadership lens.

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Trusted by leading businesses

Latest Blogs & Insights

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Method Recruitment marks 10 years with a refreshed brand, new website, and a renewed focus on trust, impact and delivering exceptional recruitment experiences.
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Interviews aren’t just about ticking boxes. They’re about connect ion, clarity and showing someone why you. And while it’s easy to get caught up trying to have the “perfect” answers, the people who stand out are usually the ones who are prepared, but still human. Here’s how to get that balance right. 1. Do your homework (properly) Not just a quick skim of the website. Look at what the company actually does, where they’re heading, what they’re talking about publicly and how they position themselves. It gives you context and it shows. 2. Know your own story This is where most people fall short. You know your experience, but can you explain it clearly? Can you connect it to this role? Simple, structured answers (like STAR ) help. But more importantly, be able to explain: what you’ve done why it mattered what impact you had Confidence comes from clarity, not rehearsed scripts. 3. Focus on connection, not perfection Your CV got you in the room. The interview is about whether people can see themselves working with you. Be natural. Be engaged. Have a conversation. You don’t need to be overly polished, just present, interested and easy to talk to. 4. Shift your mindset - You’re not just being assessed This is a two-way conversation. Yes, they’re evaluating you. But you should also be working out if this role, team and company are right for you. Ask questions. Be curious. Take control of the conversation where it makes sense.
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When the role matters, method matters.

Submit your vacancy and build your team with Method.

Your next hire starts here.

Submit your vacancy and build your team with Method.

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