Expert CEO executive search firm

Nothing has more impact on the future success of a company than finding and attracting the right CEO.

Culture and strategy flows from the top of a business and as the leader of the company, the CEO has a key role to play in shaping its direction and personality.

Neon River is an executive search firm with deep experience of managing CEO executive search projects.

We use our deep network of candidates in the technology and games sectors, and world-class market research capabilities to craft a headhunting process that identifies, converts and manages the highest quality CEO candidates.

Our Process

Step 1: Stakeholder Briefing

We meet with key stakeholders to understand your business, culture, and the ideal candidate’s profile.

Step 2: Market Research

We research global industries to identify top-tier passive candidates.

Step 3: Candidate Outreach

We engage passive candidates with a compelling pitch and a high-quality role brief.

Step 4: In-depth Interviews

Each candidate is assessed in detail against your specific criteria.

Step 5: Psychometric Assessment (Optional)

We offer psychometric testing to complement the interview process.

Step 6: Progress Updates

We provide regular reports and schedule calls to keep you informed.

Step 7: Offer & Process Management

We guide clients through interviews and offer negotiations with strategic input.

Step 8: Final Referencing

We conduct thorough reference checks on finalists to ensure fit and success.

Key Considerations when hiring a CEO

Choosing the right CEO has a lasting impact on a company’s direction and performance. It’s about finding someone who can balance strategic thinking with strong execution, and who fits the culture and stage of the business. The right leader will guide the company through change, growth, and the challenges ahead, with clarity and focus.

Functional Focus

Whilst a CEO is responsible for the overall performance of the company, there will be certain functional areas where they tend to be more or less hands-on.

Do you need a commercial CEO who is an expert in sales, marketing and go-to-market strategy? Might a finance oriented CEO have the experience with M&A and corporate finance to take the company in the right direction? Could a product management oriented CEO help the company to differentiate and find new growth opportunities?

Stakeholder Alignment

Whenever there is a CEO executive search project, there are inevitably a lot of stakeholders involved in the hiring process as it is such an important appointment. Making sure all the key stakeholders are on the same page in terms of the role requirements before you start approaching candidates.

The Candidate’s Perspective

The hiring party also needs to be clear about “what is in it for the candidate” – in terms of the company opportunity and financial reward. Can we create a long-term incentive plan that ensures our new CEO’s incentives are aligned with important company goals?

Sector Experience

Do we need a CEO directly from the sector or can we look further afield? Sometimes the best candidates can adapt well to new sectors, so don’t be too close minded in only looking in competitive companies.