When it comes to finding exceptional leaders, partnering with the right executive recruiters can make all the difference.
Jonathan Lee Search & Selection is the dedicated C-suite and executive recruitment division of Jonathan Lee Recruitment — a trusted name in engineering, manufacturing, energy and technology sectors for over 45 years.
We specialise in connecting organisations with board-level, director and senior management professionals who can deliver lasting strategic impact in the UK and internationally.
But what exactly is Search & Selection, and why do companies across the UK choose to work with us instead of other executive job agencies or executive hiring firms?
What Is Jonathan Lee Search & Selection?
Jonathan Lee Search & Selection is a targeted, research-driven recruitment approach used to identify, attract and secure senior leadership and specialist professionals. Unlike traditional contingency recruitment, it is highly consultative and proactive combining market insight, deep networking and direct headhunting.
At Jonathan Lee Search & Selection, our experienced executive recruiters conduct in-depth market mapping to find the right leaders — not just active job seekers. We discreetly approach senior professionals, assess cultural fit and deliver a carefully curated shortlist aligned with your organisation’s strategic goals.
Learn more about our approach at Jonathan Lee Search & Selection.
Why Work With Jonathan Lee Search & Selection?
1. Proven Executive Recruitment Expertise
With over 45 years in the industry, Jonathan Lee is one of the UK’s most established executive management recruitment agencies.
We have successfully placed board-level and C-suite leaders across the engineering, manufacturing, energy and advanced technology sectors — helping businesses select executives who make a measurable strategic impact.
2. Access to a Network of Senior Leaders
Unlike many executive hiring firms, our proprietary database and long-standing industry networks provide access to both active and passive executive candidates. This ensures you reach talent that most executive job agencies cannot.
3. Insight-Led and Industry-Focused
Our consultants have hands-on sector experience, enabling them to evaluate candidates for functional competence, leadership capability, personality strengths and cultural alignment — not just their CVs.
4. Confidential, Transparent, and Ethical
Executive recruitment often requires sensitivity. Our executive recruiters ensure every assignment is handled with complete discretion, open communication and mutual trust.
When Should You Use a Search & Selection Partner?
You should consider partnering with a specialist C-suite and executive recruitment firm when:
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You’re hiring for a C-suite, strategic or board-level position.
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You need to discreetly approach top performers in your industry.
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Where confidentiality and reputation management are essential.
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Where previous search has not identified the right calibre of professional.
Search & Selection focuses on precision, quality, and long-term success.
What Makes Jonathan Lee Search & Selection Different?
Over 80% of our executive appointments come from repeat clients and referrals — a reflection of our reputation for trust, quality and partnering.
We blend the personal service of a boutique executive job agency with the reach and rigour of a national search consultancy.
Our methodology ensures every stage — from research, through engagement to onboarding — is handled with care, consistency and transparency.
Example Roles We Recruit
Our executive recruiters have extensive experience sourcing senior professionals for roles including:
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Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
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Chief Operating Officer (COO)
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Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
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Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
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Chief People Officer (CPO)
- Chief Commercial Officer (CCO)
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Managing Director (MD)
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Directors
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Non-Executive and Interim Leadership roles
Find out more about our executive recruitment services.
Executive Recruitment FAQs
What do executive recruiters do?
Through being actively involved in industry, they identify, engage with and attract senior leaders — often passive candidates. Unlike standard recruiters, our executive search approach uses research, discretion and detailed sector expertise.
How are executive job agencies different from recruitment agencies?
Executive job agencies specialise in senior-level hiring, using proactive headhunting methodologies rather than job advertising and ‘luck’ to connect with C-suite and executive professionals.
What industries does Jonathan Lee Search & Selection cover?
We recruit executives across manufacturing, engineering, energy, automotive, aerospace and technology, in the UK and internationally.
Is C-suite and executive recruitment only for large companies?
Simply, no. Many SMEs use executive management recruitment agencies like Jonathan Lee Search & Selection to find leaders who can scale their business or guide transformation or just add value.
Choosing the right executive recruiter can shape the future of your organisation. At Jonathan Lee Search & Selection, we combine research, experience and human insight to help companies recruit executives who deliver measurable results.
If there is a requirement to strengthen your leadership team, explore our Search & Selection recruitment services or speak to our experienced executive headhunters today – 01384 446187.