ExactSearch.AI
About Us
About ExactSearch.AI
ExactSearch.AI was built by veteran executive recruiters who knew leadership hiring could—and should—be done differently. While technology has transformed nearly every industry, executive search has remained tied to decades-old practices. We set out to reimagine the model: cutting unnecessary costs, eliminating inefficiencies, and using AI to accelerate outcomes—without ever compromising quality or expertise.
With every engagement led by seasoned partners, clients receive the highest level of guidance and accountability. Our approach combines transparent pricing, AI-augmented workflows, and a proprietary AI Leadership Quotient (AI-LQ™) to deliver leaders prepared to perform today and ready to adapt for tomorrow. We cut the fees, but we’ve increased the value.
Our Model
- ~17% fixed fee (about half of traditional firms)
- Modest upfront retainer (reducing initial risk)
- No administrative or hidden fees
What You Get
- Partner-led search: every engagement managed by senior experts
- Low-risk structure: fair retainer, balance tied to results
- Transparent collaboration: clear communication at every stage
- AI-powered automation, human judgment: technology handles the busywork; partners focus on evaluation, fit, and strategy
- AI-LQ™ assessment: a proprietary framework for evaluating leaders’ readiness in an AI-driven world
At ExactSearch.AI, we’re redefining retained search to be faster, smarter, and more cost-effective—while elevating the client experience and outcomes.
ExactSearch.AI
Leadership
Our story starts with a better way to hire. Yours starts with the right leader.
ExactSearch.AI
Solutions And Expertise
We place transformative leaders across key functions and select industries. we find the people who drive results.
Solutions
- Executive Search
Industries
- Accounting/Audit
- Advertising/Marketing
- Aerospace/Defense
- AI
- Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- Associations
- Automotive
- BioTechnology
- Chemicals
- Clean Tech./Sustain.
- Clinical Research
- Cloud Based
- Colleges/Universities
- Commercial Banking
- Communications
- Construction
- Consulting
- Consumer
- Consumer Products
- Consumer Services
- Cultural Arts
- Cybersecurity
- Data & Analytics
- Devices
- Education
- Energy
- Engineering & Archit.
- Faith Based
- Financial Services
- FinTech
- Foundations
- Healthcare Services
- Hedge Funds
- High Tech
- Industrial
- Industrial Products
- Internet
- Investment Banking
- Life Sci./Healthcare
- Manufacturing
- Media & Entertainment
- Medical
- Medical Devices
- Mobile
- Non-Profit
- Payments/Processes
- Pharmaceuticals
- Physician Search
- Private Equity
- Private Equity/VC-Backed Startups
- Professional Services
- Retail
- Software
- Supply Chain
- Technology
- Transportation
- Travel, Hosp. & Leisure
- Utilities
Functions
- Advertising
- Business Development
- CEO/President
- Communications/PR
- Customer Service
- Data/Analytics
- Development
- Digital
- Executive Leadership
- Finance
- Finance/Accounting
- General Management
- GM/Operations
- Go-To-Market Executives
- Growth
- HR/Talent
- Human Resources
- Information/Digital
- Insurance
- Invest. Mgmt./Banking
- Investor Relations
- Legal/Compliance
- Logistics
- Manufacturing
- Marketing & Sales
- Medical/Clinical
- Operations
- Research & Develop.
- Risk Management
- Sales & Marketing
- Supply Chain
- Technology
ExactSearch.AI
News Briefings
Retained vs. Contingent Search: Choosing the Right Executive Search Model
As companies navigate increasingly complex leadership challenges, the pressure to make the right executive hiring decision has never been greater. Boards and leadership teams are looking beyond resumes and credentials, placing greater emphasis on cultural alignment, long-term business impact, and a candidate’s ability to guide organizations through growth, transformation, and uncertainty. At the same time,
AI-Forward Leadership: Driving Strategy, Innovation, and Performance in the Digital Age
AI-forward leadership describes an approach that emphasizes the adoption and integration of artificial intelligence into organizational strategy. It reflects a forward-looking mindset among leaders who understand AI’s transformative potential and use it to drive business outcomes. Such leaders are characterized by their willingness to embrace technology, their adaptability in evolving environments, and their commitment to
AI Won’t Replace Retained Search; It Will Reveal Who’s Doing It Well
In executive search, the real AI question is no longer if it belongs in the process, but how it can sharpen human judgment instead of diluting it. “Everyone is piloting AI somewhere in the talent stack,” said Mike Caggiano, co-founder and CEO of ExactSearch.AI. He explained that the executive tier is where the question shifts
ExactSearch.AI Expands Board of Advisors
AI-enhanced executive search firm ExactSearch.AI has added Doug Charles to its board of advisors. A long-tenured leader in executive search and leadership advisory, he will help the firm sharpen its differentiation, scale with quality and ensure the product and process match what clients value most: speed, stronger slates and lasting outcomes, ExactSearch.AI explained. “Doug is the kind
ExactSearch.AI
Press Releases
ExactSearch.AI Launches to Transform Executive Search with Transparent Pricing and AI-Driven Precision
Miami, FL — July 29, 2025 — ExactSearch.AI today launched a new model for retained executive search—finding exceptional talent with faster results, partner-led service, and fees at half the cost of traditional retained search firms. Founded by executive search veterans, ExactSearch.AI aims to fix what hasn’t changed in the industry’s 75-year history: 30–35% fees, multi-month
