Executive Search

Executive search in Halifax & Atlantic Canada.

Discreet, retained search for senior leadership and board roles — built to find the right leader, not the fastest hire.

What executive search is

Executive search is a focused, research-led method for filling senior and leadership roles. Unlike contingency recruitment, we work on a retained, exclusive basis and commit to one search at a time. That focus lets us go beyond the active market and reach the strongest available candidates — including those who are not looking.

How we search

Every engagement begins with discovery: understanding your organization's culture, strategy, and what success in the role really requires. From there we map the market across Halifax and Atlantic Canada, engage candidates directly, and assess each on technical fit, leadership style, values alignment, and long-term potential. You receive a short, carefully considered shortlist — and our support through selection, offer, and onboarding.

Sectors we serve

  • Financial services, energy, and healthcare
  • Government, public sector, and non-profit
  • Technology, professional services, and legal
  • Real estate and construction, education, and family business

Why Hawthorne

We are a boutique firm, based in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, with deep market knowledge, long-standing candidate relationships, and a genuine commitment to discretion. We take on fewer searches so the ones we run get our full attention.

Preparing for a critical leadership hire?

If your organization is planning a senior appointment, we'd welcome the conversation — in confidence.

Start a conversation