Three Ways to Work With EXO

Choose the engagement model that fits your hiring needs, timeline, and budget.

Direct Hire

Fast-track recruiting for individual contributors and mid-level managers. Great for scaling quickly and filling multiple roles.

  • 4-6 week timeline
  • Non-exclusive sourcing
  • Speed-focused process
  • Placement protection per agreement
  • Contingency fee structure
  • Multiple roles at once
Retained Search

Executive-level search for VP, GM, and C-suite roles. Dedicated consultant, exclusive engagement, and deep passive candidate sourcing.

  • 6-10 week timeline
  • Exclusive engagement
  • Dedicated consultant
  • Placement protection per agreement
  • Retainer + variable fee
  • Deep passive sourcing
Advisory

Strategic talent consulting before or instead of search. Build role architecture, compensation strategy, and hiring frameworks.

  • Flexible timeline
  • Fixed project fee
  • Advisory-only engagement
  • Role architecture design
  • Compensation benchmarking
  • Interview framework building

Feature Comparison

Feature Direct Hire Retained Search Advisory
Timeline 4-6 weeks 6-10 weeks 2-8 weeks
Job Level IC to Manager VP+ All levels
Fee Structure Contingency Retainer + variable Fixed project
Exclusivity Non-exclusive Exclusive N/A
Sourcing Type Active candidates Passive sourcing Research & strategy
Placement Protection Per agreement Per agreement Deliverables-based
Dedicated Consultant Search manager Yes, dedicated Advisory consultant
Multiple Roles Yes Single exclusive N/A
Best For Speed & volume Executive critical Strategy & planning

Start Here: Which Model is Right For You?

Direct Hire

You need to fill an operations, engineering, or program management role in the next 4-6 weeks. You're scaling or replacing someone.

Learn More

Retained Search

You're hiring a VP, GM, or C-suite leader. The role is critical to your strategy. You want exclusivity and a dedicated partner.

Learn More

Advisory

You're not sure if you should search yet. You need clarity on compensation, role scope, or hiring strategy before moving forward.

Learn More

Let's Find the Right Fit

Not sure which model is best for your situation? Let's talk.

Schedule a Consultation