TalentPros

Top executive search firms in Montréal.

15 executive search firms operating in Montréal — verified by us, reviewed by their buyers.

More in executive searchRetained Executive SearchCFO Executive SearchCIO Executive Search

15 firms

About executive search

Montréal is Québec's largest executive market and one of Canada's most diversified. It is a global aerospace hub, home to major engineering firms, a significant financial and institutional-investment center, and a strong base in life sciences, AI research, and video games. That mix produces a steady flow of senior searches in operations, engineering, finance, technology, and corporate functions, and frequent competition with Toronto and the US for the same leaders.

Language is a defining factor. French is the official language of work in Québec, and recent amendments to the Charter of the French Language reinforced requirements for businesses. Most senior roles call for professional French, and many also need strong English for national or international responsibilities. Truly bilingual executives with the right sector experience are the scarcest part of the market.

The firms below include global search firms with Montréal offices and Québec-based boutiques. Retained search for senior roles typically costs 25–33% of first-year cash compensation and takes 10–16 weeks. Ask each firm about its depth in your sector, how it assesses language skills, and how often it recruits from outside Québec.

Executive search — Frequently Asked Questions

How important is bilingualism for executive roles in Montréal?
Very. Most organizations operate in French, and many senior roles also require English for national or international work. Leaders who are fully professional in both, with the right sector experience, are the scarcest part of the market and can extend search timelines.
Global search firm or Québec boutique in Montréal?
Global firms are strong for roles with international scope or when the best candidates may be outside Canada. Québec boutiques often have deeper local networks and a better read on candidates' French-language and cultural fit. For many mid-to-senior roles, a firm with both a Montréal team and a national network is a good balance.
How much does executive search cost in Montréal?
Retained executive search typically costs 25–33% of the hire's first-year cash compensation, billed in installments over the search. Fees for director-level roles are sometimes structured as a flat fee.
Which sectors drive executive hiring in Montréal?
Aerospace, engineering and construction, financial services and institutional investment, life sciences, technology and AI, video games, and transportation are among the most active, alongside corporate functions such as finance, HR, and legal at the many head offices in the city.

Sources

  1. 1.Montréal International
  2. 2.Office québécois de la langue française
  3. 3.Statistics Canada