In 2026, sourcing executive talent - especially passive C-level candidates who aren't actively job hunting, remains one of the biggest challenges for European businesses. Talent scarcity is intensifying due to demographic shifts, retirements, and fierce global competition. At the same time, trends like AI integration, ESG priorities, leadership agility, and the rise of fractional roles are reshaping how companies hire.

This guide distills proven strategies based on current market insights. Whether you're filling a full-time CEO, CFO, CHRO or CTO role, or exploring fractional leadership to drive cost-effective transformation, these approaches will help you access hidden talent pools. Our team at Talent Hiring Experts has achieved 95%+ placement success over 20+ years by focusing on these principles.