Executive Search Strategy for the US Market

Establish your foundation and have your voice heard in the market.

Instant Credibility in the US:
Gain Over 20 Years of Executive Search Expertise

Listen and Learn

First, we understand your plans, process, and short/long-term goals.

Expectations & Framework

We utilize our decades of experience with global organizations expanding into the US to share pragmatic strategies.

All-In-One Hiring Solutions

Executive search, growth expansions, department buildouts, candidate assessment, leadership development, talent pipelining, and market mapping.

Develop Your Executive Search Strategy

Building a US-based Executive Search Strategy

You’ve decided to build and expand in the US. Has your strategy for attracting talent adapted to this unique and extremely competitive market for talent?

Cornerstone has spent more than two decades with international companies of all shapes and sizes, with the same common goal in mind – growth in the US market. We have witnessed companies succeed and others fail.

While respecting your unique and diverse culture, you will need to adapt to this market to attract top talent. We work closely with your executive team to develop the right executive search strategy that speaks both to you and the US market.

Our team of experts has the dedicated experience working with international life science companies from bench to bedside to C-suite, and we can offer a variety of services to meet your specific growth goals.

SERVICES

One Chance to Make Your First Impression

Who is telling your story? Your first impression to the marketplace is too important to leave in the hands of a less-experienced firm or junior associate from a larger search firm.

At Cornerstone, highly sought-after candidates are directly communicating with Partners at the firm with an average tenure of over 18 years. Throughout our entire search process, we expertly attract and land the right talent, while also appropriately and effectively sharing your compelling story to the US market.

MEET THE TEAM

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a US-based executive search strategy, and why does an international life sciences company need one?

A US-based executive search strategy defines which leaders you need in the US, in what order, how they will report to headquarters, and how you will attract them. The US is the largest life sciences market in the world, and the competition for experienced leaders is intense. Entering without a plan risks costly hires and lost time.

Which role should be our first US hire?

It depends on what is driving your US entry. A US clinical program often calls for clinical development or regulatory leadership first. Commercial entry or partnering may require a US general manager or business development leader. We help you decide based on your strategy, not on a template.

How do US executive compensation expectations compare with Europe and Asia?

US executives typically expect higher cash compensation and meaningful incentive and equity components, and expectations vary widely by role, stage, and location. A US-based executive search strategy starts with current, real-world benchmarks, so your offers are competitive from the first conversation.

How do you help US candidates trust a company without an established US track record?

US candidates want clarity: who they report to, what decisions they own, and how committed headquarters is to the US. We help you answer those questions before the search begins and present your opportunity credibly, with a Partner who represents you directly to every candidate.

How do you bridge expectations between our headquarters and US candidates?

We act as a guide on both sides. For headquarters, we explain US hiring norms, including the pace of the process, counteroffers, notice periods, and negotiation practices. For candidates, we explain your culture and decision-making style. Fewer surprises means fewer failed offers.