Careers in Executive Research
The Executive Research Association is the UK’s leading association for executive research. The industry’s code of conduct is maintained by ERA , and it also provides its members a common forum for them to exchange information.
As the industry’s main association, ERA is able to promote an awareness of the business of executive search, and in particular, the actual research role necessary to find executives and assess their qualifications, experience and past track record. Research professionals can reconnoiter executives for a broad range of corporate sectors, although financial and wealth management industry executives feature strongly.
ERA have produced an industry code of practice. They foster education amongst members, and encourage high standards in the performance of the research task.
ERA’s code of practice encourages members to never misrepresent their identity or aims, or the identity of their firm, when they are seeking to source information for executive recruitment purposes. All information obtained by a researcher should be kept commercial in confidence with respect to both the candidate as well as the client. ERA also acts as an industry ombudsman in the case of disputes.
ERA was established in 1986 and is managed by a committee of industry professionals. Two types of memberships are available. Individual membership costs £100.00 per annum. This allows a firm to select a group of four members, and these will be entitled to all member benefits. Corporate membership for executive research companies is £400.00 per annum. With corporate membership, each individual within the nominated group needs to submit an application form.
ERA’s membership register includes search consultants, both in-house and independent researchers, out placement firms, and other users of the executive research function. Prospective members can join the Executive Research Association either online via their website, or by requesting an information pack from the association’s secretary, Sarah El Rasoul.
Annual conferences are organised by ERA where pertinent topics relating to the industry are discussed by highly experienced research industry professionals. This is a forum where recent industry issues and changes can also be debated. There is also an executive research workshop which is complimentary for Executive Research Association members. In June or July, ERA also organises an annual Summer Party. Besides the social nature of the event, members can review the year and recommend improvements in industry practice.
Advertisements can also be purchased on ERA’s website. These could be for independent executive research companies, or to advertise for research appointment positions within search consultancies. Advertisements for research positions are posted for a maximum of 2 months or until advertisers request they be removed, whichever comes first.
As the UK’s foremost executive research association, ERA also maintains strong links with peer associations both within the EU as well as in the US.
Posted on: Monday, February 18, 2008 at 11:06 am 
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