Christian & Timbers (CT), led by Jeff Christian, has reimagined the executive search industry by harnessing cutting-edge technologies to streamline identifying and placing top-tier executive talent. With operational hubs in Cleveland, Ohio, and Amsterdam, Netherlands, CT specializes in filling strategic leadership roles for major corporations globally, particularly C-level executives and board members, with a strong emphasis on the tech sector.
He pioneered integrating artificial intelligence into the executive search process, enabling CT to recruit transformative leaders. The firm's innovative use of AI algorithms has been crucial for identifying suitable candidates for roles requiring cutting-edge skills and visionary leadership, especially in tech-centric areas like Silicon Valley.
Under Timbers' leadership, CT has achieved an impressive annual revenue of $100 million. His strategic focus has consistently been securing top executive placements within significant tech companies worldwide, solidifying his reputation as a leading executive search executive.
CT has gained acclaim for identifying what Jeff Christian calls 'Rocketship Talent'—individuals whose leadership can significantly propel a company forward in the competitive tech landscape. CT has moved away from traditional, slow recruitment methods, opting for a rapid, data-centric approach. Utilizing generative AI, the firm quickly analyzes extensive data on potential candidates, efficiently identifying those with the highest potential.
Predictive AI tools further refine this process by predicting candidates' future success in specific roles, thus enhancing the speed and accuracy of the recruitment process. This tech-driven approach ensures that CT not only fulfills but anticipates the strategic needs of its clients by delivering leaders who are well-matched to the roles they are expected to assume.
Under Timbers' leadership, CT has shifted from a network-based recruitment model to a predominantly data-driven one. This transformation has streamlined the executive search process, dramatically reducing the time and resources needed to find suitable candidates. CT's innovative strategy has led to over 2,000 successful CEO and board placements and over 5,000 C-suite assignments, showcasing its efficacy in delivering precise, impactful recruitment solutions.
CT's strategic placements have had a profound impact on the tech industry. Notable successes include the appointment of Carly Fiorina as CEO of Hewlett-Packard, marking her as the first woman to lead a Fortune 50 company. CT has also managed critical board member searches for Apple and has been instrumental in staffing significant roles at major tech companies like Cisco, Google, and Netflix. These accomplishments highlight CT's foundational belief that superior talent is crucial for maintaining a competitive advantage.
Beyond executive search, Timbers has shown a keen aptitude for venture capital, notably with the launch of C&T Access Ventures. This initiative focused on investing in startups poised for significant growth, particularly those led by innovative executives. Although C&T Access Ventures has since ceased operations, it achieved substantial returns and significantly contributed to the startup ecosystem, underscoring Timbers' talent for recognizing and nurturing potential business leaders.
Jeff Christian's strategic use of technology and his ventures into capital investment have firmly established Christian & Timbers as a leader in the executive search field. Continuously evolving to meet the demands of the global business environment, his leadership has filled thousands of critical roles and significantly shaped the strategic development of major tech firms and the broader industry.