Touchstone Executive Search Australia: Company Profile

Background

Overview

Touchstone Executive Search Australia, established in 2003, is a premier executive search firm specializing in connecting top-tier senior executive talent with leading organizations across the Asia Pacific region. The firm has a strong reputation for delivering high-caliber shortlists efficiently, tailored precisely to each client's requirements.

Mission and Vision

Touchstone's mission is to assist clients in achieving their business objectives by securing the best senior executive talent available. Their vision is to be the leading executive search firm in the Asia Pacific region, known for their deep industry knowledge, strategic execution, and commitment to client success.

Primary Area of Focus

The firm focuses on executive search services, leveraging extensive industry expertise and a global network to identify and attract top executive talent for their clients.

Industry Significance

Touchstone has been instrumental in advising major Australian and multinational public and private companies on senior appointments, contributing significantly to the leadership landscape across various industries in the Asia Pacific region.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

To provide clients with access to the best senior executive talent available.

To deliver high-caliber shortlists quickly and efficiently, tailored to each client's specific needs.

To build deep industry knowledge and behavioral insights to inform executive search processes.

Areas of Specialization

Touchstone specializes in executive search across various industry sectors, including:

FMCG

Broader Consumer

Construction

Industrial

Financial Services

Private Equity

Pharmaceuticals/Health

Resources

Retail

Start-ups

Telecommunications/Technology

Utilities

Key Technologies Utilized

While specific technologies are not detailed, Touchstone employs advanced research methodologies and maintains a global network to effectively identify and assess executive talent.

Primary Markets Targeted

Touchstone primarily targets the Asia Pacific region, focusing on major Australian and multinational public and private companies seeking senior executive talent.

Financials and Funding

Specific financial details, including total funds raised, recent funding rounds, and notable investors, are not publicly disclosed. As a privately held firm, Touchstone maintains confidentiality regarding its financial operations.

Pipeline Development

As an executive search firm, Touchstone does not develop products or clinical trials. Instead, their "pipeline" consists of a network of potential executive candidates across various industries, continuously assessed and updated to meet client needs.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Touchstone leverages a global network and advanced research methodologies to identify and assess executive talent, ensuring a comprehensive and efficient search process.

Significant Scientific Methods

The firm employs in-depth industry research and behavioral assessments to build a deep understanding of client requirements and candidate suitability.

Leadership Team

Chris Klingbeil – Managing Director

Chris Klingbeil is the Founder and Managing Director of Touchstone Executive Search Australia. With extensive experience in executive search, Chris has been instrumental in establishing the firm's reputation for excellence in the industry.

Paul Beattie – Director, Sydney

Paul joined Touchstone in October 2010, bringing extensive commercial experience to the team. His expertise complements the firm's capabilities in delivering tailored executive search solutions.

Narelle Carr – Senior Consultant

Narelle rejoined Touchstone in September 2022, having previously served as a Senior Consultant from 2006 to 2009. She has a rich career in Executive Human Capital and Sales roles across various sectors, contributing significantly to the firm's success.

Jo Klingbeil – Director, Finance/Administration

Jo manages Touchstone’s finance and administration, leading the back-office functions within the company, ensuring smooth operational processes.

Ryan Bathie – Director, Research

Ryan joined Touchstone in 2015 as a key researcher, focusing on delivering insight and data for the firm's executive search projects across the Asia Pacific region.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The executive search industry in Australia is highly competitive, with numerous firms offering specialized services across various sectors. As of September 2025, there are 349 executive search firms operating in Australia, with the highest concentration in New South Wales and Victoria.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the Australian executive search market include:

Korn Ferry Australia: A global leader in executive search with offices in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, specializing in cross-industry C-suite placements.

Egon Zehnder International Australia: Renowned for expertise in family-owned business succession and financial services, with a strong presence in the Australian market.

Johnson Partners: A Sydney-based firm preferred by ASX-listed companies, known for proprietary board evaluation frameworks and a focus on corporate governance.

Derwent Search: Excelling in public sector recruitment, accounting for a significant portion of federal government agency leadership appointments.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Specific collaborations and partnerships of Touchstone Executive Search Australia are not publicly disclosed. The firm maintains a strong network within the industry to enhance its service offerings.

Operational Insights

Touchstone differentiates itself through a deep understanding of industry nuances, a global network, and a commitment to delivering tailored executive search solutions efficiently. This approach enables the firm to maintain a competitive edge in the dynamic Australian market.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Touchstone is well-positioned to leverage its industry expertise and global network to expand its footprint in the Asia Pacific region. By continuing to focus on delivering high-caliber executive talent and maintaining strong client relationships, the firm aims to achieve sustained growth and success.