Relationship‑Driven Executive Search in the Age of AI: Insights from Partner Tom Wilson
The world of executive search continues to evolve rapidly as new technologies emerge, workforce expectations shift, and organizational needs grow more complex. Recently, our partner and tech/digital practice leader, Tom Wilson, joined the Full Desk Experience: Industry Spotlight podcast with Kourtney Harmon to discuss these changes and outline what leadership hiring may look like in the years ahead. executive search in the age of AI
We’re proud that Tom had the opportunity to contribute his experience and perspective to this broader industry conversation.
Understanding Search Through a Multi‑Industry Lens
Tom’s background spans both executive search and nearly two decades inside large corporations, where he held recruiting and HR leadership roles. Because of this, he brings a clear understanding of how search operates across very different environments, from fast‑moving technology companies to highly structured higher education institutions.
During the conversation, Tom emphasized that each sector operates with its own rhythm. For example, industries like technology and financial services often move quickly, while higher education and certain healthcare searches follow slower, committee‑driven timelines.
Even with these distinctions, the foundations of effective search stay consistent. Strong partnerships rely on:
- a disciplined and transparent process
- a deep and informed network
- meaningful engagement rooted in trust
Candidate Expectations Are Changing and Rising
Today’s leaders expect clarity, communication, and partnership throughout a search. Whether a process lasts two months or six, the experience carries weight.
Importantly, candidates remember how they were treated—even when they don’t receive an offer. Those interactions shape long‑term relationships and influence how they approach future opportunities. Because of this, maintaining communication, setting expectations early, and staying accessible continue to play a critical role in building trust.
AI’s Growing Presence and Its Limits
AI now appears in more stages of search operations, and its benefits are increasingly clear. Tools that help with sourcing, scheduling, research, or drafting materials can streamline work and reduce administrative effort. However, Tom emphasized that these tools should support the process, not replace the human judgment that executive search requires.
AI gives search professionals something incredibly valuable: time. With more time available, teams can invest further in meaningful conversations with clients and candidates. Rather than choosing between AI and humans, the future will depend on using technology to strengthen—not replace—the relational aspects of the work.
Looking Ahead: Insight as a Differentiator
As organizations prepare for 2026 and beyond, external talent insight is becoming increasingly important to succession planning. Companies want real‑world context—what peer organizations are doing, how leadership roles are evolving, and how external talent compares to internal pipelines.
Executive search professionals, who speak daily with leaders across a wide range of industries, are uniquely equipped to provide this perspective. Their visibility into market trends helps organizations make informed decisions about future leadership needs.
As the field continues blending data, technology, and human connection, Tom’s conversation underscores a critical point: while tools evolve quickly, the heart of executive search remains rooted in relationships, insight, and empathy.
We’re grateful Tom had the opportunity to share his voice in this ongoing discussion.
For more on executive search in the age of AI, read our blog on “Revolutionizing Operations with AI.”