Two weeks ago, I had the privilege of attending the IESF Annual Global Meeting in Mexico City as a proud member of our international executive search community. The experience was nothing short of inspiring — a vibrant mix of professional exchange, cultural immersion, and forward-looking dialogue. In my recent LinkedIn post, I shared some of the energy and excitement from the event, but here I’d like to dive deeper into the key themes, insights, and learnings that emerged during our time together.
You can find my original post here: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/éva-fehér-b1531037_what-an-inspiring-week-in-mexico-i-had-activity-7377868334593216513-vrCc
One of the central themes of our discussions was the evolving landscape of executive search. As client expectations shift and technology reshapes how we engage with talent, our profession is undergoing a profound transformation. Among many others, topics discussed included which C-level profiles are most searched globally and locally, which skills are most in demand in leadership roles, how changes in the global and local economy reshape executive search, and how AI can support our work.
Continuing our 2025 research, IESF has once again committed to conducting the Global CEO Study for 2026 — to provide valuable insights into the priorities, concerns, and strategies of CEOs worldwide. Recognizing the growing complexity of the CEO role, early next year, we will launch this study to:
Edgar Osuna’s presentation on technology trends in people management was a standout moment. He walked us through the evolution of programming languages and the rise of AI in HR, emphasizing three key factors: Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML), Robotic Process Automation (RPA), and hybrid work models. From resume analysis and smart candidate matching to virtual interviews and DEI-enhancing algorithms, AI is revolutionizing recruitment and performance management.
We explored how AI can personalize employee experiences, support succession planning, and promote diversity and inclusion. Edgar also addressed the ethical dimensions of AI, underscoring the importance of transparency, explainability, and responsible implementation. The emergence of new roles — from AI engineers to ethics specialists — signals a shift in HR’s strategic role.
The AI Act, discussed in depth during the meeting, is set to reshape how organizations deploy AI across sectors. With its classification of applications into four risk categories, the regulation emphasizes ethical and safe AI development. For executive search firms, this means greater accountability in how AI tools are used — especially in candidate evaluation and decision-making processes.
The IESF community is committed to embracing these changes responsibly, ensuring that our practices remain transparent, fair, and aligned with global standards. We are committed to using AI tools to improve and streamline our sourcing process, but we do not use AI in candidate evaluation.
Cecilia Haro, a globally recognized visionary HR leader’s presentation offered a human-centered view of career development. She emphasized the importance of redefining career paths in a world of constant change, where personal growth and adaptability are key. HR’s role, she argued, is to create environments that support individual aspirations while aligning with organizational goals.
Her insights on employee experience, personalized development, and the emotional dimension of work resonated deeply with many of us. As executive search professionals, we are uniquely positioned to guide both clients and candidates through this journey of reinvention.
The Partner Satisfaction Study revealed valuable insights into our network’s strengths and areas for growth. Long-term members praised the quality of AGMs and the strength of our global network, while newer partners highlighted opportunities to improve digital platforms and onboarding processes.
Suggestions included tailored development tracks, mentorship programs, forming brainstorming groups and enhanced leadership communication. These findings reaffirm our commitment to continuous improvement and mutual support.
One of the most exciting developments was the expansion of our professional network. We welcomed new members from the Czech Republic – Human Garden, Switzerland – Alec Allan & Associés, Denmark - Venaris Executive Search, and Colombia - Key Executives Headhunter — each bringing fresh perspectives and expertise to our global community. Their addition strengthens our collective capabilities and reinforces the value of international collaboration.
We were also delighted to announce that our Romanian partner Adelina Rosca from Rosman Talent Solutions SRL has been elected as the President Elect, the successor to our current President, Gertjan Van de Groep from Van de Groep & Olsthoorn | Executive Search & Interim Management in The Netherlands.
Starting in September 2026, Adelina will take the lead of our global network of Executive Search firms. Until then, she will work closely alongside our current President to ensure a smooth transition and continuity in leadership.
We are especially proud to share that Adelina Rosca will be the first female President in the history of IESF, since the network was founded in 2002. Congrats, Adelina!
As we look to the future, we’re already preparing for our next European regional meeting in Budapest (March 2026) and the upcoming AGM in Ho Chi Minh (September 2026).
I am genuinely excited that next March, our city and our team will be at the heart of the IESF European Regional Meeting! It is a privilege to shape the professional agenda with brilliant colleagues from all over the world— and equally exciting to show them the beauty, culture, and energy of our country.
The IESF Annual Global Meeting in Mexico City was more than a conference — it was a celebration of our shared mission, a catalyst for growth, and a reminder of the power of community. I returned home energized, inspired, and ready to apply these insights in my work and collaborations. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this unforgettable experience, especially to Gloria…who was an unbelievable host. Let’s keep the conversation going and continue shaping the future of executive search together.
