Research Associate (Recruitment)

Are you passionate about connecting top talent with the right opportunities? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where teamwork is essential to success? Richardson Executive Search is looking for a Research Associate to help identify, source, and engage top-tier candidates in alignment with client needs. This is your opportunity to act as the first point of contact for high-level candidates and work hand-in-hand with our consultants to find the perfect match for each role.

Based in Calgary, this in-office role offers flexibility to meet personal needs. If you are an early bird who feels more productive in the morning, this role will align well with your rhythm. Join us to contribute to a team-oriented, fast-moving environment where a team sport mindset is essential for success—and accelerate your career in executive search.

Join us to make a difference—and grow your career in the exciting world of executive search.

What You Will Do

As a Research Associate, you will play a pivotal role in our executive search process. Key responsibilities include:

Targeted Research & Outreach

• Leverage job boards, social media, networking, and industry-specific platforms to identify top-tier candidates.
• Conduct targeted outreach to the most qualified passive candidates, positioning Richardson’s opportunities as transformative career moves.

Candidate Engagement & Evaluation

• Conduct comprehensive pre-screen interviews to assess candidate suitability.
• Develop detailed candidate profiles and summaries for consultant review.
• Coordinate interviews and prepare candidates with customized materials to ensure success.

Reporting & Administration

• Develop compelling job descriptions for upcoming searches, and post new job openings on our website.
• Prepare progress reports to keep clients informed throughout the search process.
• Maintain accurate documentation in our tracking system to ensure search activities are well-organized.
• Assist the Consultants in the entire executive search process from start to finish.

Team Collaboration & Search Coordination

• Manage candidate communications, ensuring transparency, clarity, and satisfaction throughout the search process.
• Collaborate with consultants daily to align on priorities and candidate updates.
• Collaborate within a team-first, fast-paced environment where individual and group success are equally celebrated.

Compliance & Background Verification

• Conduct comprehensive background checks, including social media audit, criminal and designation verification.

What You Bring to the Role

Education & Experience

• A bachelor’s degree in business, human resources, or a related field is preferred but not mandatory.
• 1-3 years of experience in recruitment, talent acquisition, or executive search is required.
• Industry expertise is valued, and relevant experience can compensate for academic qualifications.
• Familiarity with ATS, CRM tools, and sourcing platforms (e.g., LinkedIn Recruiter).

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and collaboration tools like Teams and Zoom.
• Knowledge of advanced sourcing strategies.

Key Competencies

• Professional Presentation: Demonstrate professionalism in every interaction.
• Communication Skills: Engage effectively with candidates, clients, and internal teams.
• Team Sport Mindset: Thrive in collaborative environments, working toward shared goals.
• Analytical Thinking: Evaluate candidates from both technical and cultural perspectives.
• Relationship Building: Develop trust with candidates, clients, and team members.
• Proactive & Results-Driven: Take initiative to optimize outcomes and find creative solutions.

Apply Today

Join us and become part of a passionate team dedicated to helping clients and candidates achieve their goals. If you are ready to grow your career in executive search, we want to hear from you!

About Us

Richardson Executive Search, rooted in Alberta, is a trusted leader in executive search. We are committed to aligning visionary leaders with progressive organizations, fostering relationships built on trust, integrity, and professionalism. As a proud member of the AESC, we adhere to the highest standards in executive search, building long-term partnerships with clients and candidates alike. Visit us at www.richardsonsearch.ca.

Note: In accordance with Canadian immigration laws, priority will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Learn more: www.cic.gc.ca.