Higher Education Executive Search
Executive Search ROI Calculator

The Real Cost of an Executive Vacancy

Most institutions focus on search fees. The data tells a different story. Enter your position details below to see the full financial picture — vacancy cost, search comparison, and the ROI of getting the right hire the first time.

1 Position Details

Total cash comp; exclude benefits & bonus for cleaner comparison
Programs, enrollment, grants, or operations this role touches

2 Search Parameters

180 days
National avg for VP-level higher ed: 150–210 days without a firm
90 days
Typical retained search: 75–105 days for VP-level
Screening, interviews, admin, committee time (loaded rate)
30%
DIY searches have ~35–40% turnover within 18 months at VP level

3 Vacancy Cost Analysis

4 Search Strategy Comparison

These numbers are yours to keep — print or save before you go.