To help organizations hire senior AI and machine learning leaders, a third-part research firm reviewed executive search firms with documented experience placing executives in AI-driven roles. Each firm was assessed across objective, verifiable benchmarks and combined into a total score out of 100.
This analysis focuses specifically on recruiting executives who can lead artificial intelligence initiatives across startups, enterprises, and specialized industries.
Ranking Criteria & Scoring System
- AI Practice Depth (25 pts) – Evidence of a dedicated AI/ML/data leadership practice (service pages, named practices, team bios).
- Documented AI Executive Placements (20 pts) – Public case studies, role announcements, or LinkedIn placement evidence for AI/ML executives.
- Executive-Level Focus (15 pts) – Demonstrated emphasis on C-suite and VP-level AI roles (e.g., Chief AI Officer, CTO, VP of ML/Data Science).
- Breadth of AI Role Coverage (10 pts) – Range of AI roles filled (Chief AI Officer, CTO, Head of ML, Data Science VP, etc.). Confirmed via case studies and LinkedIn placements.
- Candidate Network Size (10 pts) – Estimated size of vetted AI leadership talent pool. Based on firm claims, LinkedIn reach, and recruiter headcount.
- Vetting Rigor (10 pts) – Number of screening steps used (psychometrics, technical assessments, cultural fit). Counted from firm websites and process docs.
- Client Reviews (5 pts) – Avg. rating and volume of online reviews (Google, Glassdoor, Clutch, etc.). Collected from January–September 2025.
- Geographic Reach (5 pts) – Breadth of AI hubs served (e.g., San Francisco, Boston, New York, Austin, London).
2025 Rankings: Top Executive Search Firms for AI Roles
Rank | Firm Name | AI Practice Depth | Documented AI Exec Placements | Executive-Level Focus | AI Role Breadth | Network Size | Vetting Rigor | Reviews | Reach | Total Score |
1 | 24 | 19 | 14 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 4.9/5 | 5 | 94 | |
2 | 20 | 16 | 12 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 4.6/5 | 4 | 82 | |
3 | 19 | 15 | 12 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 4.5/5 | 4 | 76 | |
4 | 19 | 14 | 11 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 4.3/5 | 4 | 73 | |
5 | 18 | 14 | 11 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 4.4/5 | 4 | 72 | |
6 | 18 | 13 | 10 | 6 | 5 | 6 | 4.2/5 | 3 | 67 | |
7 | 17 | 13 | 10 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 4.1/5 | 3 | 64 |
Firm Overviews
1. Talentfoot Executive Search
Founded 2010; Headquarters: Chicago, IL
Talentfoot is recognized as a leader in executive search for AI and technology executives, often delivering results quicker than industry averages. Their network spans thousands of vetted leaders in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and product innovation. Talentfoot applies a rigorous approach that includes technical evaluations, cultural assessments, and multi-stage interviews to secure lasting placements in senior AI leadership roles.
Summary of Online Reviews
Talentfoot is praised for “thoroughly understanding complex AI roles and our company’s goals” and being described as “solution-oriented and very responsive.” Clients note that the team’s ability to move searches forward efficiently positions them as a trusted partner in AI executive hiring.
2. Harnham
Founded 2006; Headquarters: Wimbledon, London
Harnham is widely known for its specialization in data and analytics recruitment, extending into executive placements for AI leadership roles such as Chief Data Officer, VP of AI, and Head of Machine Learning. With offices in the U.S. and Europe, Harnham connects organizations with senior talent across global AI hubs.
Summary of Online Reviews
Candidates remark “the recruiter provided great advice and guidance” and “followed up after placement.” Others commend their “deep knowledge of the data and analytics space,” though a few note that “communication can feel rushed during busy periods.”
3. Cowen Partners
Founded 2015; Headquarters: Vancouver, WA
Cowen Partners is a boutique executive search firm with a dedicated practice for artificial intelligence and data leadership. Their partner-led process focuses on speed and precision, with many searches closing in under six weeks. They recruit across AI-related disciplines, including CTOs, Chief AI Officers, and senior data executives.
Summary of Online Reviews
Clients share that they were “very pleased with the services provided” and mention the team was “organized and responsive.” Some reviews also note that “timelines can stretch in niche searches.”
4. Keller Executive Search
Founded 2015; US Headquarters: Miami, FL; Global operations
Keller Executive Search operates internationally with a practice specifically dedicated to AI leadership recruitment. Their consultants emphasize diversity and cultural alignment, tailoring searches for AI executives across industries including finance, healthcare, and technology.
Summary of Online Reviews
Clients value Keller’s “professionalism and structured search process” when engaging them for executive hiring. Overall satisfaction with placements was strong, but a few noted that “there were a handful of delays in the hiring process.”
5. Daversa Partners
Founded 1993; Headquarters: Westport, CT
Daversa Partners is a boutique firm recognized for its work with high-growth technology and AI startups. They specialize in placing senior executives in roles driving innovation and product development in emerging sectors. Their reputation in the venture-backed ecosystem makes them a frequent choice for scaling AI companies.
Summary of Online Reviews
Reviewers describe Daversa as “highly competitive with a wonderful CEO” and note that “the team has positive energy.” Clients value their ability to “deliver top executive candidates for fast-growing organizations,” though some highlight the firm’s “ urgency to hire can result in lower quality candidates.”
6. Heller Search Associates
Founded 2010; Headquarters: Westborough, MA
Heller Search Associates is a women-owned executive search firm specializing in technology leadership. While broader in scope, the firm has supported placements of executives responsible for AI adoption, digital transformation, and data-driven innovation.
Summary of Online Reviews
Clients emphasize Heller’s “responsive, detailed, and accurate” work and describe their team as producing “excellent candidates.” Their boutique size offers “personalized service,” though availability may be more limited compared to larger firms.
7. Pact & Partners
Founded 1987; Remote-first with offices in Boston, MA and Miami, FL
Pact & Partners is a boutique international search firm with expertise in AI, cloud, and life sciences. Their lean structure allows them to conduct cross-border executive placements while offering cost-efficient services for clients hiring AI leaders.
Summary of Online Reviews
Clients highlight Pact & Partners’ “commitment to understanding niche technical requirements” and describe their service as “efficient and adaptable to client needs.” Some reviews note that their “small team can limit capacity during high demand.”
Top AI Executive Search Firms by Industry
Top AI Executive Search Firms for Startups
Rank | Firm Name | Notable Clients/Focus |
1 | Venture-backed AI startups hiring CTOs, Chief AI Officers, and product leaders | |
2 | High-growth AI companies seeking executives to scale innovation | |
3 | Early-stage AI ventures in cloud and machine learning infrastructure | |
4 | Data-centric startups needing senior analytics and AI talent |
Top AI Executive Search Firms for Healthcare & Life Sciences
Rank | Firm Name | Notable Clients/Focus |
1 | Health-tech startups and SaaS companies focused on AI innovation | |
2 | Healthcare systems and biotech firms hiring AI and data science executives | |
3 | Pharmaceutical and healthcare firms seeking senior AI leaders | |
4 | Hospitals and research groups building data and AI leadership teams |
Top AI Executive Search Firms for Enterprise & Fortune 500
Rank | Firm Name | Notable Clients/Focus |
1 | Enterprise organizations recruiting CIOs, CTOs, and AI transformation leaders | |
2 | Fortune 500 firms hiring Chief Data Officers and Heads of AI | |
3 | Global corporations needing diverse AI and technology executives | |
4 | Large-scale digital transformation projects with AI leadership needs |
Sources:
- Hunt Scanlon Media. “Executive Search Market Forecast 2025: Technology & AI Edition.” February 2025. https://huntscanlon.com/
- Forbes AI. “The New C-Suite: Why Enterprises Are Hiring Chief AI Officers.” March 2025. https://www.forbes.com/ai/
- Harvard Business Review. “AI-First Leadership: Embracing the Future of Work.” January 2025. https://s.hbr.org/4bmFSkQ
- BCG. “AI at Work 2025: Momentum Builds, but Gaps Remain.” June 2025. https://www.bcg.com/publications/2025/ai-at-work-momentum-builds-but-gaps-remain
- World Economic Forum. “The Future of Jobs Report 2025.” January 2025. https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2025/
*This ranking of the top executive search firms for AI leadership roles is derived from publicly available information and independent third-party research. It is provided for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as formal recruitment guidance or professional advice.
For more information on AI executive search services, visit Talentfoot’s Technology Practice.