Neemar Search | Annual Letter 2024

As I reflect on 2024, I feel an overwhelming sense of pride in what Neemar Search has accomplished during our second year. Our growth has been remarkable, with over 50 senior leaders, 20 non-executives, and 30 interim appointments placed across the housing sector. Each placement represents more than a completed search - it is a meaningful step toward strengthening leadership across our sector.

What truly defines this year is the collaborative journey we've taken with our communities to shape who we are and what we stand for. Through in-depth conversations with clients, candidates, and sector partners, we co-created our values and vision. This inclusive process has laid a solid foundation, built not just by us but by the very communities we serve.

The result? A clear vision: ‘To Build the Most Customer Centric Executive Search Firm,’ paired with a purpose of ‘Impact-driven Search’. Our co-created values are at the heart of everything we do:

• Full accountability
• Excellence as our baseline
• Building communities
• Being a force for good
• Smart thinking with bold moves

These principles are not just words on paper; they are living commitments shaped by real conversations and shared experiences with our partners.

In a competitive executive search market, we’ve carved out a unique space by being innovative, invested, and impactful. One of the most rewarding aspects of this year has been seeing our promises in action - building relationships that generate referrals from every client and clients from every referral. As we grow, we remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence and ethical responsibility, ensuring we continue to make a difference in the communities we serve.

Housing Summit and Engaging with Sector Leaders

At the heart of our success has been the growth of our community programmes, which saw incredible growth and engagement in 2024. Through over 25 virtual forums, we’ve brought senior leaders together to tackle the sector’s most pressing challenges. These sessions, enriched by distinguished guests, have provided invaluable insights into the shifting dynamics of housing leadership.

One of this year’s highlights was our presence at the Housing Summit, where we hosted an engaging breakfast session for Chief Operating Officers. This intimate gathering developed honest discussions about operational challenges and opportunities, building connections that extended well beyond the event.

Impact Study: Shaping Practical Solutions for the Sector

Another milestone was the launch of our Impact Study, focusing on reimaging repairs and maintenance in the housing sector. To complement this research, we hosted a dinner in London with key contributors from across the UK, enabling deep dialogue and shared learning. This blend of research and real-world discussions reflects our commitment to driving practical solutions for sector-wide challenges.

Elevate Programme: Supporting the Next Generation of Leaders

Our flagship Elevate Programme for aspiring CEOs also saw its first cohort of 12 talented leaders successfully complete the programme. Its impact has exceeded our expectations, and we’re excited to announce its continuation in 2025, supporting the next generation of housing leadership.

Housing Collective Podcast: Amplifying Sector Insights

Additionally, The Housing Collective Podcast has grown significantly, with 13 episodes featuring thought-provoking conversations with sector leaders. This platform has become a valuable resource for sharing leadership journeys and insights, and we’re thrilled about the exceptional lineup planned for next year.

Net Promoter Scores: A Testament to Our Commitment to Excellence

Our dedication to excellence is reflected in our exceptional Net Promoter Score (NPS). In an industry where the average NPS is +44, we’ve achieved a candidate NPS of +88 and a client NPS of +96. These scores are more than just numbers; they represent the trust, partnerships, and positive experiences we’ve built throughout the year. They’re a testament to our team’s dedication to going above and beyond to put relationships at the heart of our work.

Our Partnership with Beam

We’ve also deepened our commitment to being a force for good through our partnership with Beam. By pledging 2% of our profits to support their transformative work, we’ve contributed to changing the lives of 389 individuals, with 273 successfully supported into housing. These are more than statistics - they’re stories of lives transformed, families stabilised, and communities strengthened.

This partnership highlights our belief that business success should go hand-in-hand with social impact, underscoring our mission to create better lives and stronger communities.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we close 2024, I want to express my deepest gratitude to our clients, candidates, and partners. Your collaboration, trust, and feedback have been instrumental in shaping our identity as a business and unlocking the possibilities of what we can accomplish together.

Looking ahead to 2025, we remain committed to driving positive change, continuing to innovate, and strengthening our communities.  As we enter the festive season, I wish you all a peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year. We look forward to building on our shared success and creating an even bigger impact together in 2025.