Association For Executive Research
The Executive Research Association is the leading UK based association for executive research. ERA determines the protocols for the industry and offers a medium for fellow researchers to network.
As the leading industry authority, ERA is able to promote an awareness of the functions of executive search, and more specifically, the actual research role required to find executives and determine their qualifications, experience and past track record. Research professionals can seek out executives for a broad range of corporate sectors, although finance industry executives feature strongly.
ERA have created a code of practice for the industry. They promote education amongst members, and encourage high standards in the execution of the research task.
ERA’s code of practice encourages members to never misrepresent their identity or purpose, or the identity of their firm, when they are seeking to obtain information for executive recruitment purposes. All information obtained by a researcher should be kept commercial in confidence with respect to both the client as well as the candidate. The Executive Research Association also acts as an industry ombudsman in the case of disputes.
ERA was formed 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 ERA’s 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 leading executive research association, ERA also maintains strong links with peer associations both within the EU as well as in the US.
