Specialists in Retained Search & Executive Assessment

We partner with forward-thinking
businesses to deliver critical leadership hires
and performance insights through a proven,
process-led approach.

Start Your Search Register with Us

Trusted by organizations across the U.S.

A Smarter Approach to Retained Search

At KS Search Partners, we specialize in retained search defined by method, not industry. Private equity firms and high-growth businesses trust our structured, collaborative approach to deliver leadership that drives performance. Whether you're scaling a portfolio team, replacing a key leader, or building out a new function, we’re the partner you want in your corner.

%

Retention Rate

Average Days To Placement

300

+

Successful Placements

Industries We Serve

About Us

What We Do Best

Retained Search

We deliver retained search built for the demands of private equity and high-growth environments. From CFOs and COOs to other growth-critical leadership roles, every search is managed end to end by experienced consultants with no handoffs or junior delegation. Our process is methodical, fast, and grounded in real insight, giving you direct access to leaders who drive enterprise value. Clear communication, full transparency, and a focus on business outcomes over box-ticking.

Executive Assessment

Our executive assessment work gives you clarity before the hire. Whether you're benchmarking leadership for a new mandate or evaluating existing teams post-investment, we provide structured insights across capability, culture fit, and future potential. Trusted by PE partners and CEOs alike, our approach brings rigor and discretion to every decision, supporting leadership alignment when it matters most.

Our Process.
Your Competitive Edge.

Our methodology is built for high-stakes hiring. From discovery to onboarding, we work with precision, clarity, and a deep understanding of what drives long-term success.

Assessment & Analysis

We take the time to understand your culture, strategy, and leadership expectations. Through interviews, site visits, and outcome analysis, we define what great looks like in your context.

Candidate Profile Design

We create a detailed brief covering success traits, behavioral drivers, and target experience. Compensation, timing, and process are aligned and approved before search begins.

Candidate Targeting & Identification

Using focused research and network intelligence, we build a high-quality pipeline. Early shortlists are shared for feedback, sharpening direction before deeper outreach.

Candidate Interview & Assessment

Every candidate is evaluated across impact potential, leadership style, and cultural fit. Interviews, references, and behavioral insights provide a clear picture of each finalist.

Offer & Placement

We guide final evaluations, offers, and onboarding. Acting as an extension of your team, we ensure the best-fit leader is secured and every interaction reflects your brand.

Transition Support

Post-placement, we support integration with a Critical Success Profile, New Leader Assimilation, and 360 feedback. Ensuring momentum from day one.

What Our Clients Say

It’s not just what we do — it’s how we do it. Our process earns trust and delivers results, every time.

"We worked with K|S to source multiple executive level roles and were very pleased. Their sourcing process is comprehensive, beginning with a candidate profile and internal interviews of the CEO and SVPs. Kinsley Sarn surprised me with how perceptive they are in terms of candidate qualities, skills, and culture fit based on their in-depth interviews."

Jodi Whitney

Vice President - Human Resources, Citizens Energy Group

“I truly appreciate the work KS Search Partners put into this process. From start to finish, their team was organized, communicative, and thorough. They made what is often a complex and stressful experience feel seamless. This was, without question, one of the smoothest searches I have ever been a part of, and the quality of candidates presented exceeded expectations.”

Andrew Tanner

President, Talbert Manufacturing

“KS Search Partners invested the time to fully understand the nuances of our culture and the unique requirements of our roles. They went beyond checking boxes on experience—they identified candidates who not only brought the right technical and leadership capabilities, but who also strengthened our workplace dynamics and aligned seamlessly with our mission. The results were several critical leader hires who elevated both our team and our organization as a whole.”

Rodney Reasen

CEO, Daniel Defense

“The CFO we hired through KS Search Partners has been an outstanding addition to our leadership team. He has assimilated seamlessly into the organization, quickly building strong relationships and demonstrating sound judgment. Since joining, he has taken ownership of critical projects and already made a tangible impact that has simplified my role as CEO. This was an excellent hire who has exceeded expectations.”

Matt Goins

CEO, AAA Hoosier Motor CLub

“As far as we are concerned Dan could not be a better fit. First and foremost, the cultural fit is perfect. His CFO/Finance skill set is going to pay big dividends for us. Beyond that he has really good self-awareness and leadership skills. We are very happy with the hire and follow through!"

Bryan Barrett

CEO, Barrett & Stokely

Let’s Build the Team
You Deserve

Start a conversation with our search specialists. No fluff. No jargon. Just clear, experienced guidance.