Director, Client Talent Strategy (with path to Vice President)

TH Bender is the leading retained executive search firm in North America, specializing in placing VP and C-level executives at American subsidiaries of international companies. With nearly two decades of uninterrupted presence in the market and close to 2,000 senior placements completed, we serve clients headquartered across the DACH region, China, India, Japan, and Europe — operating in a corridor where very few firms can match our depth, cultural fluency, or track record. We are looking for a Director, Client Talent Strategy to take ownership of a mandate portfolio, drive business development, and grow a book of business from an already established platform. This is a hunter and builder role with full P&L accountability and a clear path to Vice President. The right candidate brings peer-level credibility with owners, board members, and C-suite executives and the commercial drive to turn relationships into retained mandates. A background in retained search, management consulting, or senior international business development is highly relevant. What matters most is that you operate as a trusted advisor at the highest level, not as a coordinator or account manager.

Key Responsibilities

• Originate and manage retained executive search mandates at VP and C level, with full P&L ownership
• Lead the complete search lifecycle from briefing and candidate development through assessment, placement, and post-placement support
• Build and convert relationships with owners, advisory board members, and C-suite executives into retained engagements
• Serve as a peer-level advisor to senior clients, guiding leadership decisions with clarity and conviction
• Represent TH Bender at industry events and within relevant international business networks
• Contribute to firm growth through referrals, repeat mandates, and expanded client relationships

Key Qualifications

• Proven track record in retained executive search, management consulting, or senior commercial roles with sustained C-suite engagement
• Peer-level credibility with senior decision makers and the ability to advise, not just execute
• Familiarity with international business cultures and the international to North America investment corridor
• Entrepreneurial mindset and genuine readiness to carry revenue accountability independently
• Network within export-oriented sectors such as automotive, life sciences, mechanical engineering, chemicals, or technology
• Bachelor's degree required; MBA or advanced degree strongly preferred
• Fluency in German or another major language strongly preferred

What We Offer

• An established brand and client base built over nearly two decades — you inherit credibility, not a cold start
• Full autonomy in a lean, high-performance environment that rewards results directly
• A clear path to Vice President and meaningful upside for those who build and perform
• A collegial, values-driven culture grounded in integrity, professionalism, and mutual respect

To apply, submit your resume and a brief introduction to: info(at)thbender.com Work Location: Remote