Complete Staffing Solutions
Our Solutions

Retained Search

Dedicated, strategic recruitment for critical leadership roles

Our Focus

Our retained search model is designed for critical leadership and highly specialized roles that require a dedicated, strategic recruitment approach. Through a retained partnership, we commit focused resources to delivering exceptional candidates for pivotal positions.

Strategic Partnership

Working closely with client leadership, we develop a comprehensive search strategy that includes market mapping, targeted outreach, and structured candidate evaluation. This collaborative approach ensures alignment with both immediate hiring goals and broader organizational objectives.

Confidential Search Process

Retained engagements allow for a discreet and methodical search process, particularly valuable when hiring for senior leadership roles or replacing key personnel.

Our Edge

By dedicating a specialized team and leveraging deep industry networks, we provide a highly focused search experience that consistently delivers exceptional talent for mission-critical roles.

Our Solutions

Our Search Models: Understanding the Difference

Not all searches are created equal. CSS aligns the right level of rigor, process, and commitment to the stakes of every hire.

Retained Search

Retained Search

Ideal for C-Suite, VP, and Direct-leaders

Who It's For

  • C-Suite, VP, and Director-level leaders
  • Comprehensive, assessable, or mission-critical hires
  • A transformation, P&L, board, or organizational role impact

Our Process

  • Fully dedicated team ensures your search is top priority.
  • Deep market analysis and targeted outreach.
  • Thorough evaluation to include leadership assessments
  • Advanced recruitment strategies to reach the best talent

12-Month Placement Guarantee ★

Contained Search

Contained Search

Ideal for Sr. Managers, Managers • Mid-Level

Who It's For

  • Sr. Manager + Managers and Mid-Level
  • Key department, expanding, or growth roles
  • Routine hiring requiring vetted candidates without executive-level investment

Our Process

  • Dedicated team supports you through the recruiting process
  • Efficient multi-channel sourcing strategies
  • Thorough screening, interviewing, and vetting
  • Quick and seamless placement support

6-Month Placement Guarantee ★

For high-level or mission-critical searches, every engagement is backed by structure, assessment, and a dedicated team.

SIDE-BY-SIDE COMPARISON

RoleRetainedContainedContingent
Search TypeC-Suite / VP / DirectorSr. Manager / ManagerIndividual Contributors
Upfront FeeExclusive RetainerStructured AgreementResume-based screening
Topgrading & McQuaigExclusiveSharedN/A
Guarantee12 months6 months90 days

Every CSS search — at every level — is backed by structure, assessment, and a dedicated team.