Executive hiring volumes have proven stable in Q2 of 2026, yet many organisations simply take too long to hire. Processes become duplicated and laborious, which often results in them stalling and subsequently missing out on the preferred candidate. Top candidates are indeed in demand and often have more than one option available to them. Candidate experience is extremely important when candidates are weighing one opportunity against the next.”
The executive hiring market remains active, but many organisations are still losing exceptional talent because their recruitment processes take too long. Multiple interview rounds, delayed feedback and lengthy decision-making often create unnecessary roadblocks.
Today’s senior leaders have choices. They evaluate not only the role itself, but also the experience of engaging with a prospective employer. A streamlined, well-managed recruitment process signals decisive leadership, while a slow, fragmented one can push top candidates towards competing opportunities.
In a competitive market, organisations that combine thorough assessment with timely decision-making are the ones most likely to secure the leaders they want before someone else does.
By Mike Bremermann, Partner at Holdbourne Advisory
