CEOWORLD Names Herd Freed Hartz #1 Retained Executive Search Firm in the Northwest for 2025
Back-to-Back Triumph: Herd Freed Hartz Retains Top Spot in CEOWORLD’s 2025 Executive Search Rankings
For the second consecutive year, Herd Freed Hartz is proud to announce our recognition as one of America’s premier executive search firms—once again securing the #1 position in the Northwest and #39 globally on CEOWORLD Magazine’s esteemed Top 100 Executive Search Firms and Consultants Globally for 2025. This recognition reflects the same principles that have fueled our success for over two decades — a passion for delivering measurable results, a personalized approach, and a deep commitment to helping clients build leadership teams that win.
The Herd Freed Hartz Difference
What began as a bold vision has evolved into a blueprint for executive search done right. We’re not chasing rankings; we’re chasing impact. Here’s what continues to distinguish us in 2025:
- Customized Approach, Winning Playbook: In a sea of cookie-cutter searches, we stand out with our customized approach —immersing ourselves in our client’s unique DNA, from core values to strategic ambitions. We craft placements that aren’t transactions but true synergies, ensuring leaders integrate seamlessly and propel your vision forward. This is why 95% of our executive search placements are still in the role 24 months later.
- Pacific Northwest Heart, Nationwide Reach: Anchored in the innovative spirit of the Northwest, our local savvy fuels a truly global network. From tech disruptors in Seattle, family businesses looking for a generational transition to mission-driven non-profits making an impact in our communities, we pinpoint executive talent that will inspire and help take an organization to the next level. Clients love our 37-day “Time to Candidate” metric average over the last 3 years shows we deliver both quality candidates and quick recruiting traction.
- Proven Track Record: Our portfolio of 1000+ executive searches since 2001 tells the story—from scaling unicorns to revitalizing legacy brands across sectors like clean energy, fintech, and healthcare. We’re more than matchmakers; we’re foresight partners, with a proven history of placements that accelerate revenue, foster cultures of innovation, and navigate complex regulatory landscapes.
Executive Search Matters More Than Ever
As CEOWORLD’s 2025 insights aptly highlight, the executive talent arena is more dynamic—and demanding—than ever. With AI reshaping operations, geopolitical tensions influencing supply chains, and a premium on sustainable growth, the right leaders aren’t optional; they’re essential. A single hiring oversight can erode competitive edges, stifle innovation, and drain resources in ways that echo for years. That’s where firms like ours, twice-vetted for top-tier prowess, step in as catalysts. We transcend resumes to unearth executives who don’t merely adapt—they anticipate, inspire, and architect tomorrow’s triumphs.
Earning a spot on CEOWORLD’s list is a rigorous achievement. Landing this honor back-to-back is the mark of sustained excellence in a field where consistency is king. This benchmark ranking, relied upon by forward-thinking companies worldwide, spotlights firms that master the art of executive talent acquisition amid volatility and opportunity. In a time when leadership isn’t just about steering the ship but navigating uncharted waters, this honor reaffirms our position as a go-to ally for securing executives who spark real, lasting change. Standing shoulder-to-shoulder with other executive search powerhouses speaks volumes about the confidence our clients invest in us—and the transformative outcomes we consistently produce, all delivered with our signature blend of strategic insight and ensuring a strong culture fit.
Every search is handled by senior partners who know how to tell your story, elevate your brand, and find leaders who fit — not just on paper, but in culture and purpose. We don’t just fill roles; we accelerate growth for investors, founders, and executive teams who are scaling for what’s next.
Gratitude Fuels Our Fire
None of this—last year’s win or this year’s encore—happens in a vacuum. A heartfelt thank you to our clients, whose bold challenges and shared successes inspire us daily and thank you for trusting us to help shape your leadership team. And to our remarkable team: your sharp acumen, passion, empathetic networking, and unyielding drive turn possibilities into partnerships that endure.
Claiming #1 in the Northwest and #39 worldwide for the second straight year isn’t just a badge of honor—it’s rocket fuel for our mission. We’re more committed than ever to elevating executive search, sourcing leaders who shatter ceilings and build bridges to unprecedented growth. If your organization is ready to level up your executive leadership team to help you succeed – let’s connect to see how we can help you too.
For the complete article on CEOWORLD’s 2025 rankings, dive into the full feature here.
Check our recent client placement announcements.