Top 10 Executive Search Firms for the Technology Sector

The technology sector is one of the most vibrant within the world of executive search and there are many executive search firms who specialize in the sector.

We have curated a list of some of the most reputable technology executive search firms that provide a good starting point for candidates and potential clients looking to find a suitable partner.

Neon River

Neon River is a boutique executive search firm with a strong reputation within the technology startup and scale-up space across the UK and Europe. They primarily work with high-growth software, SaaS, internet, and games companies backed by VC/PE firms. Being a boutique firm, they work well with startups and growth companies that want specialized and tailored tech-sector expertise without the bureaucracy of a big firm.

Odgers Berndtson

Founded in 1965, this UK-based firm has global reach and a strong TMT practice. They’re known for working with clients on both the corporate and government side of digital transformation. They have a very sector-specific focus and provide tailored leadership advisory services. Their human resources consulting services are not limited to recruitment but also include leadership assessment.

Egon Zehnder

Headquartered in Zurich, Egon Zehnder is one of the most respected executive search firms globally, with a particularly strong presence in Europe. Their Technology and Communications Practice works with both legacy companies and digital disruptors. They are often called “elite” in the executive search industry, and their global presence is undeniable.

Gordon & Eden

Gordon & Eden is another boutique executive search firm specialized in the technology sector. They have a strong track record of hiring senior digital and technology leaders for rapidly growing startup, scale-up, and corporate businesses. Founded by Sam Gordon and Sophie Eden, they are also one of the high-quality boutique firms offering tailored services.

Savannah Group

Savannah Group is known for its work in digital, data, and technology leadership. They frequently work with high-growth companies and PE/VC-backed businesses. Not only executive search, they also offer interim management, talent intelligence, and transformation consulting. Their presence is strong in the UK, and they are trusted by leading Fortune 500, FTSE 250, and private equity-backed businesses.

Joseph Executive Search

Joseph Executive Search is a unique firm where all their consultants are former CEOs or partners in industry or practice. They have a strong local presence in the UK and specialize in the technology sector, especially life sciences and biotech businesses. They also offer executive search services to management consulting firms.

Proactive Global

Proactive Global specializes in engineering and technical talent. They are a sector-specific firm with a strong reputation within the automation, manufacturing, and advanced technology industries. Based in London, they cover technology and engineering talents worldwide. The firm is part of nGAGE Talent, an international group of specialist recruitment brands.

CrimsonXT

CrimsonXT is a specialist executive search firm focused on automation, energy, technology, and construction companies worldwide. They offer executive search, permanent, and contract recruitment services for clients looking for a speedy process. They also offer retained-based, full-partnership service including employer brand support.

The Up Group

The Up Group is a London-based firm with a strong presence in the pan-European headhunting scene. Beyond executive search, The Up Group provides a suite of advisory services including management team assessment and salary benchmarking. Each year, their events platform brings together more than 2,000 business leaders through board dinners, roundtables, and talent awards held across the US and Europe.

JBM

JBM is a London-based executive search firm founded in 2012 by James Mitra, specializing in placing top-tier leadership talent within Seed to Series C startups and VC-backed companies. They offer permanent placements for roles such as CEO, COO, CMO, and other C-suite positions, but also interim and fractional placements.

Working with B2B and B2C clients

Technology executive search firms operate at the intersection of innovation and leadership, helping companies find the right leaders to navigate rapidly changing markets. Whether working with B2B clients—such as enterprise software providers, SaaS companies, or technology service firms—or B2C companies including gaming studios, consumer apps, and e-commerce platforms, these firms bring deep sector knowledge and a nuanced understanding of candidate motivations. This dual expertise allows them to tailor search strategies to the unique challenges and cultures of both business models.

For B2B clients, executive search firms often focus on leaders who can drive complex sales cycles, build scalable operations, and manage long-term client relationships. In contrast, B2C clients frequently seek executives skilled in product innovation, user experience, and rapid market adaptation. A strong technology executive search firm understands these distinctions and works closely with clients to align leadership profiles with strategic priorities, ensuring the selected candidates can thrive within their specific business context.

While large global firms provide broad networks and resources, boutique and smaller executive search firms are increasingly recognized for their agility and sector specialization. Smaller firms often deliver a highly personalized approach, with senior consultants directly involved in every stage of the search. This hands-on partnership can be particularly valuable for startups and mid-sized companies looking for customized solutions and deeper industry insight—helping them compete for top talent alongside larger, more established players.

Working with B2B and B2C clients

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