Egon Zehnder Firm Profile: Careers, Salary, and Work Culture

Key Insights:

• Egon Zehnder is a global executive search and leadership advisory firm with 2,600+ employees across 63 offices worldwide.
• The firm was founded in 1964 by Egon P.S. Zehnder and is now led by CEO Ed Camara.
• Egon Zehnder careers span consultants, analysts, experts, and corporate roles with flexible, performance-based progression.
• Students can apply for an Egon Zehnder internship, an 8 to 12 week program in select global offices.
• Egon Zehnder salary ranges from 70,000 for entry-level analysts to 200,000+ for consultants, with bonuses and benefits included.

Egon Zehnder is a global executive search and leadership advisory firm that helps organizations identify and develop top leaders. With services in CEO succession, board advisory, and leadership development, Egon Zehnder has become a trusted partner for businesses worldwide. Founded in 1964, the firm continues to influence global leadership.

In this article, we will explore Egon Zehnder’s history, services, careers, salary, culture, and recruitment process to give you a complete understanding of the firm.

What kind of company is Egon Zehnder?

Egon Zehnder is a global executive search and leadership advisory company specializing in CEO succession planning, board advisory, executive search, and leadership development across industries. The firm focuses on helping organizations build strong leadership teams and guiding executives to succeed in critical roles.

Egon Zehnder operates in more than 60 offices worldwide, making it one of the largest privately held executive search firms. Unlike management consulting firms that focus on strategy or operations, Egon Zehnder’s expertise lies in leadership solutions and long-term talent development.

Key services offered by the firm include:

• Executive search for C-suite and board positions
• CEO succession planning and leadership transitions
• Board advisory for governance and effectiveness
• Leadership assessment and development programs
• Diversity and inclusion consulting for executive teams

By working closely with boards and CEOs, Egon Zehnder supports organizations in building resilient leadership pipelines. The firm’s clients span sectors such as financial services, healthcare, technology, consumer goods, and industrial manufacturing, reflecting its broad global influence.

Who founded Egon Zehnder and how old is the firm?

Egon Zehnder was founded in 1964 by Egon P.S. Zehnder in Zurich, Switzerland, making the firm more than 60 years old. From its early beginnings, it has grown into one of the world’s leading executive search and leadership advisory companies.

The firm started with a mission to bring a more personalized, client-focused approach to executive search. Unlike transactional recruitment agencies, Zehnder emphasized long-term leadership solutions and partnership with boards and CEOs.

Key milestones in Egon Zehnder’s history include:

• 1964: Founded in Zurich by Egon P.S. Zehnder
• 1970s to 1980s: Expanded internationally across Europe and North America
• 1990s: Growth into Asia-Pacific, strengthening its global reach
• 2000s to present: Expanded services into leadership advisory, succession planning, and diversity consulting

Today, the firm employs more than 2,600 professionals across 63 offices in 36 countries, reflecting its long-standing commitment to global leadership and talent management.

How many employees and offices does Egon Zehnder have?

Egon Zehnder has more than 2,600 employees working across 63 offices in 36 countries, making it one of the largest privately held executive search and leadership advisory firms worldwide. This global presence allows the firm to serve multinational clients and adapt to regional business needs.

The scale of its workforce reflects the firm’s emphasis on collaboration and knowledge-sharing across regions. With consultants, researchers, and leadership experts spread globally, Egon Zehnder can match clients with the right talent solutions regardless of geography.

Key details on Egon Zehnder’s global footprint:

• Employees: 2,600+ worldwide
• Offices: 63 locations across 36 countries
• Headquarters: Zurich, Switzerland
• Global reach: Strong presence in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America

This broad network allows the firm to advise on leadership development and executive search for organizations ranging from local companies to Fortune 500 multinationals.

Who is the CEO of Egon Zehnder today?

Egon Zehnder’s current Chief Executive Officer is Ed Camara, who was appointed in 2022. Based in Zurich, he leads the firm’s global strategy, focusing on strengthening executive search, board advisory, and leadership development services across its 63 offices worldwide.

Ed Camara has been with Egon Zehnder for more than two decades, holding leadership roles across regions before becoming CEO. His background includes significant client work in financial services and board governance, making him well-suited to guide the firm in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

Under Camara’s leadership, Egon Zehnder emphasizes:

• Expanding CEO succession and board advisory practices
• Strengthening global collaboration among offices
• Promoting diversity and inclusion in executive leadership
• Investing in leadership assessment and development programs

The firm’s leadership structure remains partner-driven, ensuring decisions reflect both global and local perspectives. This collaborative governance model is central to Egon Zehnder’s culture and long-term client relationships.

What industries does Egon Zehnder serve?

Egon Zehnder serves a wide range of industries, including financial services, healthcare, technology, consumer goods, and industrial manufacturing. By combining executive search with leadership advisory, the firm helps organizations across sectors strengthen their leadership pipelines and prepare for long-term success.

The firm’s industry expertise ensures that clients benefit from both global insights and specialized knowledge. Its consultants often have prior senior-level experience in the industries they advise, allowing them to understand client challenges firsthand.

Key industries supported by Egon Zehnder:

• Financial services, including banking, insurance, and investment management
• Healthcare and life sciences, such as pharmaceuticals and medical devices
• Technology and digital businesses, from startups to global enterprises
• Consumer goods and retail, including food, apparel, and luxury brands
• Industrial and manufacturing companies, covering automotive, energy, and logistics

This industry coverage enables Egon Zehnder to provide tailored leadership solutions to businesses of every size, from multinational corporations to regional leaders.

Is Egon Zehnder a good company to work for?

Yes, Egon Zehnder is considered a good company to work for, offering a collaborative culture, strong values, and opportunities for career development in leadership consulting. Employees often highlight the firm’s non-hierarchical structure, emphasis on trust, and long-term commitment to professional growth.

The culture at Egon Zehnder is described as supportive and team-oriented. Unlike firms with an “up or out” model, employees are encouraged to build lasting careers with flexibility in their progression. This creates a sense of stability that appeals to both consultants and corporate staff.

Employee perspectives often emphasize:

• High levels of collaboration among colleagues
• An environment where knowledge-sharing is encouraged
• A strong focus on diversity and inclusion in leadership teams
• Opportunities to work directly with senior executives and boards
• Work-life balance that is better than many traditional consulting firms

External reviews reinforce this positive perception, noting that employees value the combination of meaningful client work and the opportunity to grow within the firm.

What career paths are available at Egon Zehnder?

Egon Zehnder careers offer multiple paths, including consultant, analyst, expert, and corporate operations roles, each providing opportunities for growth in executive search and leadership advisory. Advancement is performance-driven, with progression tailored to individual contributions and expertise.

The firm does not follow a rigid “up or out” model. Instead, employees are encouraged to grow at their own pace while building long-term careers. This creates flexibility and supports sustained development in leadership consulting.

Main career tracks at Egon Zehnder include:

• Consultants: Senior professionals responsible for client relationships, leadership solutions, and talent strategy.
• Analysts and Researchers: Early-career professionals supporting search projects, data analysis, and leadership assessments.
• Experts: Specialists in areas such as diversity and inclusion, organizational design, or industry sectors.
• Corporate Operations: Roles in HR, finance, IT, and marketing that support firmwide functions.

Progression depends on performance, client impact, and leadership qualities rather than fixed timelines. Employees often note the collaborative environment and focus on mentorship as key strengths of career growth at the firm.

Does Egon Zehnder offer internships for students?

Yes, Egon Zehnder offers internships for undergraduate and MBA students, typically lasting 8 to 12 weeks. These internships provide hands-on exposure to executive search and leadership advisory projects, giving students direct experience in client research, leadership assessments, and organizational consulting.

Internship programs are available in select global offices, with opportunities varying by region. Students gain early insights into how the firm supports CEO succession, board advisory, and leadership development.

Key features of Egon Zehnder internships:

• Duration: 8 to 12 weeks, depending on office and region
• Eligibility: Undergraduate or MBA students with strong analytical and communication skills
• Focus areas: Research, leadership assessment, and project support
• Benefits: Networking with consultants, mentorship, and potential career opportunities

Many interns receive full-time offers after successful program completion, making internships a valuable entry point into Egon Zehnder careers.

What is the interview process at Egon Zehnder like?

The Egon Zehnder interview process typically includes multiple rounds over 4 to 6 weeks, combining behavioral interviews, case-based assessments, and discussions with senior consultants. Candidates are evaluated on analytical skills, leadership potential, cultural fit, and communication abilities.

The process usually begins with an initial screening, followed by more in-depth rounds:

1. Screening Interview
   

• Conducted by HR or a recruiter
• Covers background, motivation, and interest in leadership consulting

2. Case and Behavioral Interview
   

• Includes a leadership assessment case study
• Tests problem-solving, ethical decision-making, and teamwork
• Behavioral questions explore past experiences with senior stakeholders

3. Final Round with Partners
   

• Involves senior consultants or partners
• Focuses on business acumen, strategic thinking, and cultural alignment

Common questions candidates may face:

• Why do you want to work at Egon Zehnder?
• How would you assess whether a candidate is fit for a C-suite role?
• Tell me about a time you influenced a senior executive.

This structured process ensures that Egon Zehnder hires individuals who can deliver high-impact results in executive search and leadership advisory.

What is Egon Zehnder’s selection process for consultants?

Egon Zehnder’s selection process for consultants is highly competitive, focusing on leadership potential, client impact, and cultural alignment rather than just academic background. Candidates go through multiple interviews, case studies, and assessments to demonstrate their ability to advise executives and boards effectively.

Consultant candidates are expected to show deep analytical thinking, excellent communication skills, and the ability to influence senior stakeholders. The process emphasizes whether candidates can build trust with clients and contribute to executive search and leadership advisory assignments.

Key elements of the consultant selection process include:

• Application screening: Review of professional background, leadership experience, and academic performance
• Behavioral interviews: Assess personal values, teamwork, and motivation
• Case study assessments: Simulate executive search or leadership consulting scenarios
• Partner interviews: Evaluate strategic thinking, board advisory skills, and cultural fit

Unlike firms that rely heavily on traditional case interview formats, Egon Zehnder tailors its assessments to real-world leadership challenges, ensuring candidates reflect the qualities clients expect from trusted advisors.

How much do you make at Egon Zehnder?

Egon Zehnder salary levels vary by role, with entry-level analysts earning around 70,000 to 90,000 dollars annually and consultants typically making between 150,000 and 200,000 dollars plus bonuses. Senior experts and partners can earn significantly more, reflecting client impact and leadership responsibilities.

Compensation packages usually include:

• Base salary aligned with experience and role level
• Performance-based bonuses tied to client success and project outcomes
• Long-term incentives for senior consultants and partners
• Benefits such as healthcare, retirement contributions, and paid leave

Compared with top management consulting firms like McKinsey or BCG, Egon Zehnder salaries are generally lower, but the firm offers stronger work-life balance and career stability. Employees also value the non-hierarchical structure and opportunities for long-term growth.

Salary ranges are competitive within the executive search and leadership advisory industry, making the firm attractive to candidates seeking meaningful client work along with sustainable career paths.

What exit opportunities do Egon Zehnder consultants have?

Egon Zehnder consultants often transition into senior roles in corporate HR, talent management, or board advisory, leveraging their expertise in executive search and leadership consulting. Others move into leadership positions at global companies or pursue opportunities in management consulting and private advisory firms.

Common exit opportunities for former consultants include:

• Corporate HR and Talent Leadership: Serving as Chief Human Resources Officers or heads of talent strategy
• Board Advisory and Governance: Advising corporate boards on succession and governance practices
• Leadership Roles in Industry: Transitioning into executive positions across healthcare, technology, financial services, and consumer sectors
• Consulting and Advisory Firms: Joining top consulting firms or founding boutique advisory practices

The skills gained at Egon Zehnder, such as leadership assessment, CEO succession planning, and organizational design, are highly transferable. Alumni often cite the firm’s global exposure and client access as factors that accelerate their career opportunities outside the firm.

Why consider a career at Egon Zehnder today?

Egon Zehnder is a leading executive search and leadership advisory firm that offers competitive salaries, career stability, and strong global opportunities for consulting candidates. From internships and consulting roles to opportunities for global mobility, the firm provides a supportive environment where collaboration and development are prioritized. With competitive salaries, a culture rooted in trust, and diverse exit opportunities, Egon Zehnder continues to attract top talent worldwide. For candidates exploring careers in leadership consulting, an Egon Zehnder firm profile provides valuable insight into what to expect from one of the world’s premier advisory organizations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Egon Zehnder ranked?
A: Egon Zehnder is consistently ranked among the top global executive search and leadership advisory firms, recognized for its expertise in CEO succession planning, board advisory, and leadership development.

Q: What makes Egon Zehnder unique?
A: What makes Egon Zehnder unique is its partnership model and focus on long-term relationships, offering careers in leadership advisory and executive search rather than short-term placements.

Q: What is the annual revenue of Egon Zehnder?
A: The annual revenue of Egon Zehnder is estimated at around $800 million, reflecting its strong position in executive search, talent management, and leadership advisory services worldwide.

Q: Who owns Egon Zehnder?
A: Egon Zehnder is privately owned by its partners, which helps preserve independence, reinforce its organizational culture, and support sustainable consulting career paths for its professionals.

Q: How do you say Egon Zehnder?
A: You say Egon Zehnder as “AY-gon TSEHN-der,” a German pronunciation that many U.S. candidates encounter when researching Egon Zehnder careers, internships, or interview opportunities.