PMG Recruitment Services

CEO Recruitment South Africa

PMG runs confidential CEO searches for businesses across South Africa — leaders who can set strategy, lead executive teams and deliver results in manufacturing, engineering, logistics, energy and industrial sectors.

PMG Recruitment Services has been placing senior leaders in South Africa since 2008. Executive appointments are run discreetly, often without public advertising, and every candidate is assessed against the leadership and commercial demands of the role — not just their CV.


What This Role Covers

CEOs are typically responsible for:

  • Company strategy, growth and performance
  • Leading and building the executive team
  • Board, shareholder and investor relationships
  • Culture, values and organisational capability
  • Major decisions on investment, acquisitions and restructuring
  • External reputation and key stakeholder relationships

What We Assess

CEO appointments fail when a leader’s track record doesn’t match what the business needs next — growth, turnaround, integration or stability. We assess results delivered in comparable situations, how candidates have built and led executive teams, board and shareholder experience, sector knowledge, and cultural fit, backed by in-depth referencing.

CEO Remuneration

CEO packages depend heavily on company size, ownership and incentive design, including short- and long-term incentives. We provide a tailored benchmark as part of every search. Contact us to discuss.

Example Role Profile

See an example of the kind of CEO role we typically recruit for: view the role profile.

Part of Our Executive Search Practice

This role is part of PMG’s Executive Search practice, covering CEOs, Managing Directors, COOs, CFOs, directors and senior functional heads across South African industry.

Current Vacancies

Browse our current vacancies for open roles we’re recruiting for right now. If nothing matches today, submit your CV via the Candidate Portal and we’ll be in touch when a suitable role comes up.

How We Work

  1. We take a detailed, confidential brief on the role, the board or leadership team, and the business context.
  2. We map the market and approach candidates directly, including those who are not looking.
  3. We assess leadership track record against your context and present a shortlist with detailed reports.
  4. We support you through interviews, referencing, offer and a discreet transition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a CEO search confidential?

Yes. CEO searches are almost always confidential, especially when the incumbent is still in role.

Do you recruit CEOs for private and family-owned businesses?

Yes, as well as subsidiaries of international groups and growing mid-sized companies.

How long does a CEO search take?

From brief to shortlist typically takes several weeks. Senior notice periods of one to three months are common, so early planning helps.


Hiring a CEO?

Tell us about the role and a consultant will get back to you with next steps — or browse our current vacancies if you’re looking for your next role.

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