The Biggest Shifts In 25 Years
In 25 years of Moon Executive Search, we've witnessed transformations in how leaders conduct operations, recruit top talent and fuel success. From the rise of remote work and the accelerating pace of technological advancements (including AI) to a growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion, the business landscape is constantly changing.
Changes have reshaped how we operate, with the introduction of distinct practices for MET roles, Leadership Consulting and Charity positions. But what’s more important is the bond we share with our clients. This has only been strengthened as we adapt to their evolving business needs.
So, what do Exec Search leaders think the biggest change has been?
We asked our team to reflect on the most impactful developments they've seen during their time with us.
Simon Quinn, Director of Leadership Consulting and Executive Search:
“Since having personally joined Moon at the start of 2014, we have seen Brexit, the Covid Pandemic, the death of Queen Elizabeth II, the Cost-of-Living Crisis and we are currently on our 6th Prime Minister! But through it all, Moon has stood firm, embracing change, developing distinct business practices (Charity, MET and Leadership) alongside our core Exec Search Practice, and continuing to deliver for our candidates and clients alike.
Personally, I’ve grown a goatee, got more grey hairs and have more aches and pains, but I’m incredibly proud to have worked with some fantastic clients and businesses in the UK and Europe. Now our latest business challenge is welcoming AI to our team and making sure we underpin the exciting benefits it offers, with our personal and distinctive touch. Here’s to the next decade!”
Sandy Hinks, Head of Moon’s Charity Practice:
“When I first started at Moon, all my interviews were face to face, involving lots of travelling and meeting candidates for coffee. Now, most interviews take place online. While this is far more time-efficient, it means more time is needed to understand someone’s values and personality. This has led to long, complex hiring processes, as some candidates face weeks or even months of interviews before receiving an offer.”
Peaches Golding, Non-Executive Director:
“Over my 15 years with Moon, employers place greater emphasis on finding candidates with diverse characteristics. Our database of excellent candidates with these characteristics has increased, as has the number of successful candidates being placed. The quality and comprehensive nature of Moon’s service to clients and candidates alike has risen faster than their expectations as we live our values, being approachable, ethical and distinctive. We support the communities we serve through employee volunteering, civic leadership and practical initiatives demonstrating how business helps positively shape the fabric of society for good outcomes.”
Natalie Mockett, Head of Operations:
“I joined Moon during the first week of lockdown, meeting Vanessa to receive my laptop in a Tesco car park! Since then, the very fabric of work has fundamentally changed. Covid reshaped attitudes toward remote and hybrid working, prompting employers to adapt to new workforce priorities. As a result, most organisations now offer hybrid models, allowing employees the flexibility of working from home while retaining company culture and the bonds that are formed through in-office working.”
Gemma Wilks, Head of MET Practice:
“My journey at Moon began 12 years ago as an Office Administrator. Through hands-on experience, I developed my skills and knowledge, steadily rising through the ranks to become Head of the MET Practice. Reflecting on the last 12 years, the most striking change has been the accelerating pace of technological advancement, especially with the introduction of AI, which is now innovating countless industries.”
Vanessa Moon, Founding Director:
“A lot has changed since I first set up Moon 25 years ago. Our reach has expanded significantly, and our profile within the industry has grown stronger. Over time, the experience and expertise within our team have deepened, allowing us to deliver even greater value to our clients.
Perhaps the most meaningful shift has been in how we approach our work—not just the tasks we tackle, but the mindset behind them. Systems and processes have become more streamlined, allowing us to work with greater clarity and purpose. Most notably, there's a renewed openness—a culture that encourages collaboration, transparency, and a genuine exchange of ideas. Inclusivity, equity and fairness is and has always been at the core of our business. We work with the intention to ensure that every voice is heard and that diverse perspectives are represented and respected in leadership. That commitment shapes how we build teams and advise clients every day.”
Explore: Opening Doors for 25 Years
