Retained Executive Search

Senior hires that withstand investor scrutiny.
Data-led strategy, transparent delivery, and shortlists built on substance - not guesswork.

What you get with ProGen

Hiring at the top of a Life Sciences organization demands more than a recruiter – it requires a process built for precision and accountability.

At ProGen Search, every retained engagement starts with structured research, open communication, and complete visibility from day one.

Research-led foundation

Market mapping, leadership benchmarking, and competitor analysis tailored to your objectives.

Total transparency

Milestone tracking and weekly reports - you see every step of the process.

Capability and culture alignment

Every evaluation connects skills, style, and context to your growth phase.

Investor-grade documentation

A detailed report supporting every shortlisted executive and rationale for selection.

Offer strategy and close

Data-backed compensation insights and a seamless close process.

Retention built in

Onboarding guidance and succession alignment to ensure lasting success.

Where this is most effective

C-suite and senior functional leadership (CEO, COO, CCO, CMO, CSO, VP-level roles)
Board and independent director searches
Investor-backed companies needing defensible, research-based hiring decisions

Our search flow

Define

Clarify success criteria, key challenges, and leadership DNA.
Map

Build a comprehensive market landscape and role-specific intelligence pack.
Engage

Founder-led outreach — every approach carries senior-level credibility
Select & Close

Offer management, narrative alignment, and onboarding preparation.

Proof in practice

Hiring for senior positions is complex and competitive. At ProGen Search, we simplify the challenge by combining expertise with cutting-edge technology and a commitment to excellence.

VP of Quality
Emerging-Stage CDMO (USA)

A CDMO scaling its GMP programs needed a senior Quality leader to modernize systems and prepare for FDA scrutiny. Through a data-driven retained search, we secured a VP who had implemented risk-based QMS and led audit readiness. The hire strengthened governance, audit outcomes, and client trust.

“I’m very pleased to have found Byron, who has reset the bar in my mind for other search firms… With Byron, I get resumes that are clearly well screened, and we converge quickly on the right candidate.”

— Dave Dingott, CEO, Sword Bio

"He provided great insight into the role, identified a strong shortlist of candidates, and helped us select an exceptional hire.”

— Andrew Chalmers, CEO, CiteAb

Typical deliverables

Search strategy memo and market map
Weekly progress reports and pipeline visibility
Candidate report pack (background, capability summary, evaluation notes)
Compensation benchmarks and offer guidance
Onboarding and handover plan

FAQ

How quickly will I receive a shortlist?

Typically within 4 – 6 weeks, depending on role scope and seniority. Timelines are defined upfront.

How transparent is your process?

You’ll receive a weekly update showing all outreach progress, responses, and upcoming actions.

Do you work globally?

Yes – our search coverage is global, spanning Biotech, Pharma, CDMO, CRO, and more.

What makes your documentation investor-grade?

Every shortlisted candidate is accompanied by a structured report detailing background, achievements, and risk assessment – ready for Board or investor review.

Can you assist with offer design and onboarding?

Absolutely. We support end-to-end negotiations and advise on onboarding to secure long-term retention.