Leading Global Talent Since 1951

With 74 years of experience, 132 partners, and 33 offices in 24 countries, Ward Howell stands as the second oldest executive search firm in the world. But we are not just about longevity—we are about leadership, vision, and results. Today, we are a premier strategic leadership consulting firm, helping organizations worldwide navigate complexity, accelerate growth, and build leadership teams that shape the future.

What Drives Us

At Ward Howell, we believe that exceptional leadership is the catalyst for success. Our mission is simple but powerful: To empower organizations by delivering transformational leaders who drive change and achieve extraordinary outcomes.

Our vision is to be the most trusted global partner in leadership consulting, recognized for our strategic insight, commitment to excellence, and relentless pursuit of impactful solutions.

We are Strategic Partners, Not Just Recruiters.

Unlike traditional search firms, we go beyond matching resumes to job descriptions. We delve deep into your organization’s DNA, understanding your culture, vision, and strategic goals. Our partners—experienced leaders who have been in your shoes—are directly involved in every engagement, ensuring strategic alignment and exceptional results.

We Deliver Global Reach with Local Expertise.

With 33 offices across 24 countries, our footprint spans every major market. This global presence, combined with in-depth local knowledge and a collaborative international network, allows us to deliver solutions that are both globally relevant and locally effective.

We are Relentlessly Focused on Results.

Our approach is built on rigorous research, strategic insight, and a deep understanding of industry dynamics. We don’t just find leaders; we deliver impact. Our clients trust us because we are committed to their success and stand by them from strategy to execution.

We Champion Diversity and Inclusion.

Ward Howell is proud to stand with over 90 companies committed to achieving gender parity by 2030 as part of the Paradigm for Parity® initiative. We believe that diverse leadership teams drive innovation, agility, and competitive advantage.

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Our Expertise

We are leadership architects.

We specialize in designing and building high-performance leadership teams through a suite of services that address every stage of the leadership lifecycle:

Executive Search

Finding leaders who not only fit but thrive in your culture.

Leadership Development

Nurturing potential to build sustainable leadership pipelines.

Organization Development

Optimizing organizational structures and cultures for peak performance.

Board Advisory

Enhancing governance effectiveness with strategic insights and best practices.

Our Legacy and Evolution

Founded in 1951 by former McKinsey partner Henry Ward Howell, our journey is marked by continuous growth, innovation, and impact. From pioneering executive search methodologies to shaping leadership consulting, we have always been ahead of the curve. As one of the founding members of the Association of Executive Search Consultants (AESC), we set the standards of excellence and integrity in our industry.

Today, we remain at the forefront of leadership consulting, blending our rich heritage with modern insights and agile methodologies. We are a global boutique—lean, agile, and driven by an entrepreneurial spirit that allows us to adapt quickly to the changing needs of our clients.

What Sets Us Apart?

Experience That Matters: Our partners are not just consultants; they are seasoned leaders who bring decades of real-world experience and strategic insight.

Global Network, Personalized Approach: We combine the reach of a global firm with the personalized service of a boutique, delivering customized solutions without the constraints of rigid structures.

Innovation Meets Integrity: We are constantly evolving, integrating advanced research capabilities with a consultative approach that puts your strategic goals at the center.

Our Global Footprint

From New York to Shanghai, from London to Dubai, Ward Howell is wherever leadership matters. Our 33 offices across 24 countries ensure that we can support your leadership needs, no matter where you are or where you want to grow.

Let’s Shape the Future Together

Ready to build the leadership team that will drive your organization’s success? Partner with Ward Howell and experience the power of strategic leadership consulting.