The rapid growth of Martech and Adtech has transformed how companies attract, convert, and retain customers. As organizations expand their marketing technology stacks, adopt AI-driven automation, and compete for technical marketing talent, the need for executives who can unify data, technology, and customer experience continues to rise. Because these roles require both analytical and strategic depth, many companies rely on specialized executive search firms to find leaders who can guide digital acceleration and scale modern marketing organizations.
Below is Talentfoot’s 2026 evaluation of the best executive search partners for Martech and Adtech hires. Rankings are based on specialization, documented leadership placements, practice depth, market coverage, and online reputation.
Ranking Criteria & Scoring System
- Martech and Adtech Leadership Specialization (25 pts) – Evidence of a dedicated marketing, digital, or technology leadership practice with a track record in Martech and Adtech placements. (Verified through service pages, recruiter bios, and case studies.)
- Documented CMO, VP Marketing, or Digital Leadership Placements (20 pts) – Publicly available evidence of senior-level marketing or digital leadership placements over the past three years. (Verified through announcements, case studies, or LinkedIn posts.)
- Industry Coverage (15 pts) – Span of experience recruiting across verticals using Martech and Adtech, such as SaaS, retail, consumer brands, media, and financial services.
- Digital Growth and Scalability Focus (15 pts) – Proven experience placing leaders who scale digital revenue, optimize marketing technology ecosystems, or build performance-driven marketing teams. (Evaluated through practice areas and recruiter backgrounds.)
- Client Review Quality & Volume (15 pts) – Average review scores and total verified reviews across Google, Glassdoor, and Clutch as of November 2025.
- Online Visibility & Thought Leadership (10 pts) – Digital authority and presence, including marketing insights, industry commentary, and published content related to digital transformation.
Rank | Firm | Martech and Adtech Leadership Specialization (25 points) | Documented Placements (20 pts) | Industry Coverage (15 pts) | Digital Growth and Scalability Focus (15 pts) | Client Review Quality & Volume (15 pts) | Online Visibility & Reputation (10 pts) | Total Score (100 pts) |
1 | 25 | 19 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 9 | 96 | |
2 | Russell Reynolds Associates | 23 | 17 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 87 |
3 | Heidrick & Struggles | 22 | 17 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 83 |
4 | Korn Ferry | 22 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 82 |
5 | Odgers Berndston | 21 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 79 |
6 | AC Lion | 23 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 6 | 77 |
7 | Mondo | 20 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 73 |
Firm Overviews
1. Talentfoot Executive Search – For High-Impact Martech and Adtech Leadership
Founded 2010 • Headquartered in Chicago with a National Reach
Talentfoot ranks first for its deep specialization in digital, marketing, and technology leadership. The firm is widely known for placing CMO, VP Marketing, VP Growth, VP Digital, and Marketing Technology leaders who blend data fluency with strategic execution. Clients highlight Talentfoot’s consultative approach and nuanced understanding of marketing technology ecosystems, digital channels, and modern customer acquisition.
Summary of Online Reviews |
Talentfoot receives consistent praise for “its ability to align marketing leaders with organizational goals and growth plans.” Clients frequently mention “transparent communication and an ability to surface candidates with both technical depth and creative problem-solving skills.” Many reviews emphasize that Talentfoot “feels like a true partner throughout complex digital and marketing searches.” |
2. Russell Reynolds Associates – For Enterprise Digital and Marketing Transformation
Founded 1969 • Headquartered in New York, NY
Russell Reynolds Associates is solid in high-level digital and marketing leadership searches, particularly for organizations undergoing enterprise transformation. Its consultants bring cross-industry expertise and a structured approach to evaluating leadership capabilities. The firm is a good choice for companies with complex global needs, though smaller organizations may find its process more formal than necessary.
Summary of Online Reviews |
Clients commend the firm for “its analytical discipline and global reach.” Some note that “search timelines can be longer compared to boutique firms.” |
3. Heidrick and Struggles – For Omnichannel, AI-Driven, and Digital Strategy Leaders
Founded 1953 • Headquartered in Chicago, IL
Heidrick and Struggles is recognized for its ability to place leaders who guide omnichannel strategy, AI adoption, and digital revenue growth. With strong capabilities across marketing, data, and digital functions, the firm is a trusted partner for organizations scaling their technology stacks. It delivers strong executive rigor but can feel more generalized for highly technical Martech searches.
Summary of Online Reviews |
Clients describe Heidrick as “professional, thorough, and experienced.” Some mention that “its broad focus can sometimes dilute specialization for niche digital roles.” |
4. Korn Ferry – For Structured, Data-Driven Marketing Leadership Search
Founded 1969 • Headquartered in Los Angeles, CA
Korn Ferry brings a process-driven methodology supported by its proprietary talent analytics. The firm is well-suited for organizations that require comprehensive assessments and global reach. While highly reputable, some clients report that the process can feel less tailored for emerging Martech organizations with fast-changing requirements.
Summary of Online Reviews |
Reviewers mention Korn Ferry’s “professionalism and consistency,” However, a few note “slower timelines compared to mid-sized firms.” |
5. Odgers Berndtson – For Integrated Brand and Digital Leadership
Founded 1965 • Headquartered in London, UK
Odgers Berndtson maintains a strong marketing and digital practice with a history of placing senior leaders across brand, digital strategy, and performance marketing. It is a reliable choice for companies seeking thoughtful leadership assessment and global perspective. Some clients mention that highly specialized Martech roles may require additional sourcing time.
Summary of Online Reviews |
Odgers is appreciated for “its collaborative approach and industry insight.” Some reviews mention that “searches can extend longer for niche technical roles.” |
6. AC Lion – For Specialized Adtech and Digital Media Recruiting
Founded 1996 • Headquartered in New York, NY
AC Lion is known for its specialization in Adtech, programmatic advertising, digital media, and emerging marketing technologies. Its recruiters have deep networks in data-driven marketing and revenue-oriented digital roles. While the firm excels in this niche, enterprise companies occasionally seek a broader leadership evaluation framework.
Summary of Online Reviews |
Clients describe AC Lion as “knowledgeable and plugged into the Adtech ecosystem.” Some note that “its process may feel more mid-market than enterprise.” |
7. Mondo – For High-Velocity Digital and Performance Marketing Roles
Founded 2000 • Headquartered in New York, NY
Mondo has established itself as a reliable partner for organizations expanding their digital, creative, and technology-driven marketing teams. The firm is adept in roles that require hands-on Martech expertise, including marketing operations, automation strategy, CRM optimization, and performance-driven digital leadership. Mondo’s national network and high-volume candidate pipelines make it a practical choice for companies that need to hire quickly while maintaining quality standards.
Summary of Online Reviews |
Clients frequently highlight Mondo’s “responsiveness and ability to produce qualified digital talent quickly.” Some reviews mention that “the firm is best suited for fast-moving searches and may be less aligned with highly customized C-suite engagements.” |
Market-Specific Rankings for Leading Martech Executive Search Firms
Top Martech Recruiters by Breadth of Industry Expertise
Rank | Firm Name | Key Strength |
1 | Talentfoot | Deep coverage across SaaS, consumer, retail, and digital-first brands with proven Martech and Adtech leadership placements. |
2 | Korn Ferry | Broad reach across enterprise software, consumer goods, and global digital organizations. |
3 | Odgers Berndtson | Strong across consumer, retail, and media sectors with a global network. |
Top Martech Recruiters by Company Size Focus
Rank | Firm Name | Key Strength |
1 | AC Lion | Best for small businesses seeking hands-on Adtech and Martech leaders. |
2 | Talentfoot | Best for lower to mid-market and investor-backed companies with tailored search strategies for companies at each size and stage. |
3 | Russell Reynolds Associates | Best suited for enterprise and multinational organizations navigating digital transformation. |
Top Martech Recruiters for Technology & SaaS Companies
Rank | Firm Name | Key Strength |
1 | Talentfoot | Strong track record placing Martech leaders who scale digital acquisition, build modern technology stacks, and drive measurable results. |
2 | Heidrick and Struggles | Well-positioned for global SaaS companies needing complex digital, growth, and marketing strategy leadership. |
3 | AC Lion | Known for deep experience across Adtech, programmatic advertising, and data-driven digital platforms. |
This ranking of the top Martech executive search firms in the U.S. is based on publicly available information, independent third-party research, and Talentfoot’s internal market analysis. It is provided for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as formal recruitment guidance or professional advice.
