The 2026 series will tackle the most pressing issues shaping the executive search and leadership advisory profession—from artificial intelligence and strategic business development to high-performance team leadership and elevated personal brand positioning.

Business development in executive search has entered a new era. Clients expect sharper insight, stronger context, and more strategic dialogue from their search partners – especially in uncertain or competitive markets. AI is transforming how firms meet these expectations by elevating the relevance, preparation, and depth of every interaction.

Join AESC and Retrained for the first of three workshops focused on integrating artificial intelligence into business development efforts. Rather than encouraging volume-driven outreach, participants learn how to use AI to support insight-led, relationship-driven BD that strengthens advisory credibility while preserving professional judgement.

Registration is complimentary to all AESC Members. Nonmembers seeking registration should inquire to learndev@aesc.org. 

Once firms begin activating higher-quality Business Development conversations, the next challenge becomes focus: understanding which clients and prospects to prioritize, why certain conversations convert, and where advisory relevance is strongest.

Join AESC and Retrained for the second of three workshops focused on integrating artificial intelligence into business development efforts. This session introduces a structured, evidence-based approach to client segmentation and empathy mapping, helping firms move beyond surface-level demographics and activity-driven targeting. Participants learn how AI can analyze conversations, behaviors, and signals to uncover the underlying motivations, pressures, and decision-making contexts shaping client needs – turning BD activity into actionable strategy.

Registration is complimentary to all AESC Members. Nonmembers seeking registration should inquire to learndev@aesc.org. 

Many executive search firms underestimate the growth potential within accounts they already serve. Across professional services, significant account value often remains untapped – not due to lack of client need, but because firms lack visibility, structure, or a repeatable approach to account expansion.

Join AESC and Retrained for the third of three workshops focused on integrating artificial intelligence into business development efforts. This session introduces a practical, AI-enabled framework for account development, building on the insight, focus, and momentum established in the earlier sessions. Participants learn how to score and prioritize accounts, map stakeholder ecosystems, identify relationship gaps, and create a disciplined system for deepening trust and expanding work across functions and business units.

Registration is complimentary to all AESC Members. Nonmembers seeking registration should inquire to learndev@aesc.org.