Last September, we had (the BeljonWesterterp team from the Netherlands) the privilege of attending the annual international CFR Global Executive Search meeting in Montreal in Canada. This conference, aimed at professionals in the executive search field, focused on strengthening international connections and leveraging each other’s expertise. Although we had previously collaborated with international partners, this gathering offered a unique opportunity to truly experience the value of global cooperation.
From the moment we arrived in Montreal, we were captivated by the city’s vibrant energy. The blend of French-Canadian culture and North American dynamism was evident in everything, from the architecture to the people. However, the real focus of our visit was the conference, where we delved into the challenges and opportunities of international executive search.
Throughout the presentations, it quickly became clear how advantageous it is to involve international partners in the search for top talent. It can be tempting to rely on familiar markets and local networks within your own country. But this conference emphasized the immense benefits of engaging with partners from other countries who understand their local markets and cultural nuances much better. They can identify candidates we would never come across from our perspective in the Netherlands.
What is considered standard practice in Europe may come across as formal and distant in North America, while a more personal approach is crucial in parts of Asia and Latin America to build trust. The importance of understanding these differences and adapting to the specific customs and values of a country to achieve the best results is crucial.
In addition to the business program, there was fortunately time to explore Montreal and experience the Canadian culture. One of the highlights was visiting the Pointe-à-Callière Museum of History and Archaeology. Situated on the site where Montreal was founded, the museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich history. As we walked through the exhibits, we were taken on a journey through time, from the indigenous peoples to the French and British colonial periods. It felt almost symbolic: just as in executive search, where we must look beyond the surface, this museum provided a deeper understanding of the layered history of the city.
The museum experience also offered a moment of reflection. The excavations and artifacts told the story of various cultures that have blended and evolved over centuries, mirroring the lessons of the conference, which taught us that international collaboration is essential for success in today’s world. The museum reminded me of the importance of learning from the past and being open to diverse perspectives—something as relevant in our profession as it is in the history of a city.
The lunches and dinners at local restaurants were another highlight, providing the perfect setting for informal networking. Montreal is renowned for its culinary scene, and we enjoyed dishes as diverse as the conference attendees themselves. It brought us closer together and created a platform for deeper conversations about the challenges and opportunities within our industry.
As we reflected on the conference at its conclusion, we realized how invaluable international collaboration truly is. The diversity of perspectives, the knowledge of local markets and cultures, and the ability to look beyond our own borders were priceless. Our visit to Montreal—both the professional and cultural aspects—left us with a renewed appreciation for what we can achieve when working together with partners from around the world. We returned home with fresh insights and inspiration, determined to apply these lessons in our work moving forward.
Article written by Greetje Jakobs, CFR Global Executive Search the Netherlands