Beyond the Badge: Why Hanson Search is a Certified B Corp

In executive search, reputation matters. For more than 20 years, Hanson Search has built its business on the belief that strong commercial performance and responsible business practices should go hand in hand. 

March marks B Corp Month, which makes it a good moment to reflect on why we chose to become a Certified B Corp. The B Corp movement began in 2006 with the aim of setting clear standards for companies that want to operate with greater accountability and transparency. Today, more than 10,000 companies worldwide have been certified by the non-profit B Lab. For us, becoming a B Corp was a deliberate decision to measure how we operate against an independent global standard. 

Why B Corp matters

In an environment where terms such as purpose and sustainability are often used loosely, B Corp certification provides a clear signal. It shows that a business has been independently assessed across governance, people, community and environmental impact. The movement is built on the idea that businesses should create value not only for shareholders, but also for employees, clients and the wider community. That broader definition of value is becoming increasingly important for organisations that want to build long term resilience and trust. 

The rigour behind B Corp certification 

Achieving B Corp status requires a detailed assessment of how a company operates. The process examines governance structures, environmental practices, employee policies and community engagement. Hanson Search achieved a B Impact score of 108.2, which we were incredibly proud of, as the certification threshold is 80 and the current global average is 50.9. While the score itself matters, the process is just as important. It requires companies to look carefully at how decisions are made and how impact is measured. 

Investing in our people 

A central part of the certification relates to how we support the people who work with us. As a business advising organisations on talent and leadership, it is important that we apply the same standards internally. This means investing in development, ensuring fair pay and supporting wellbeing across the team. We focus on creating an environment where people can build long-term careers and continue to grow professionally. 

Extending our impact 

Our commitments extend beyond our own organisation. We recognise that many professional sectors still face significant challenges regarding diversity and access to opportunity. We have partnered with initiatives such as the 10,000 Black Interns programme and I Have A Voice to broaden talent pipelines and create more entry points into the industry. 

Sustainability also forms part of how we operate day to day. Through Ecologi we offset our carbon footprint and support climate projects around the world. 

A standard that continues 

B Corp certification is not a one-off milestone. Companies are reassessed every 3 years, which means the commitment must be ongoing. For Hanson Search, B Corp has become part of how we think about leadership, growth and how we advise our clients. It provides a framework that reinforces the belief that businesses should deliver both commercial results and meaningful positive impact. 

Partner with Purpose

Ultimately, our B Corp certification is more than just a milestone. It represents a permanent commitment to our colleagues, our candidates and our clients. Consequently, this framework guides every search we undertake and every partnership we build.

At Hanson Search, we believe that leadership should be a force for positive change. If you would like to discuss our journey or require support in building a purpose-led team, we invite you to start a conversation.