What we do
We specialise in executive search and offer leadership consulting and industry intelligence—helping organisations that shape the built environment lead with insight, confidence, and competitive advantage.
Executive Search
We find senior leaders who bring more than just experience—they bring energy, vision, and the ability to make things happen.
Whether you’re hiring a CEO, MD, or Practice Lead, we know what great talent looks like in complex, project-driven environments
At Harcourt Michaels we work closely with you to understand your business, culture, and goals. Then we go out and find people who don’t just fit—they elevate what’s possible.
Understand
We develop a clear assignment brief based on the business profile and values, the specific position requirements and the desired personality traits. Understanding the key performance criteria around the role is essential and we identify any challenges or restricting factors to the search from the outset. Listening and understanding at the outset forms the foundation of a successful project.
Implement
We put in place an achievable strategy with agreed timescales. We consider the geographic implications and whether the desired skills can be found locally, nationally or internationally, implementing a structured process to identify high achievers with the right skill set and experience.
Deliver
We engage and evaluate the defined target pool resulting in a qualified shortlist of individuals that meet all of the criteria of the role. We conduct in depth face-to-face assessments and provide full reports, continuing our involvement in the process until the desired candidate is secured.
Implement
We put in place an achievable strategy with agreed timescales. We consider the geographic implications and whether the desired skills can be found locally, nationally or internationally, implementing a structured process to identify high achievers with the right skill set and experience.
Deliver
We engage and evaluate the defined target pool resulting in a qualified shortlist of individuals that meet all of the criteria of the role. We conduct in depth face-to-face assessments and provide full reports, continuing our involvement in the process until the desired candidate is secured.
Leadership
Consulting
We help clients shape leadership strategies that support growth, change, and resilience. From acquiring new businesses to strengthening senior teams, we bring clarity and practical insight to every step.
Acquisition Strategy
We help clients identify businesses that make strategic sense to acquire—organisations with complementary services, cultural synergy, and the potential to unlock new growth. Whether you're expanding capability, entering new markets, or strengthening your offer, we bring insight and discretion to every step of the process.
Interim Management
When you need someone to step in quickly, we connect you with great interim professionals who bring stability and momentum. They’re ready to lead through change, keep things moving, and deliver results.
Leadership Assessment
We offer psychometric testing to give a clear, objective view of leadership potential. One of our Directors is a British Psychological Society-qualified assessor, trained to administer and interpret a suite of psychometric tools with rigour and discretion.
Industry Intelligence
Industry Intelligence
Industry Mapping
We give you a clear picture of who's out there—key players, rising talent, and how senior teams are structured across the built environment. It's insight that helps you spot opportunities, benchmark against peers, and plan your strategy with confidence.
Benefits Analysis
We dig into what senior leaders are really earning—beyond the headline numbers. Our benchmarking helps you stay competitive, attract the right people, and make informed decisions about reward strategy.
Market Insights
We track the shifts that matter—leadership moves, sector trends, and what's driving change. Whether you're navigating growth, restructuring, or entering new markets, our intelligence helps you stay ahead of the curve.