Global CEO, Regional Head of MENA
Alice Weightman is the Founder and CEO of Hanson Search and The Work Crowd, with over 20 years’ experience in executive search, specialising in C-suite and senior leadership placements for business-critical roles that drive revenue, manage reputation, and mitigate risk. Based in Abu Dhabi, Alice leads Hanson Search’s operations across the UAE, partnering with government entities, family offices, consultancies, and agencies across the GCC.
She oversees a global team of expert search consultants across the UK, Europe, the US, and Middle East, while remaining actively involved in delivering senior-level mandates herself—bringing deep insight, discretion, and a personal service to each critical hire.
Her search portfolio spans key functions including CEO, CFO, CHRO, IR, communications, sustainability, and strategy. Alice has worked with private equity firms, multinational corporations, management consultancies and media agencies on leadership succession, talent benchmarking, and supporting clients as they expand into new international markets.
With a legal background and a Diploma in Recruitment Practice, Alice is a Fellow of the REC, a member of the 30% Club, and an Honorary Member of Global Women in PR. She serves as a judge and speaker for the CHRO Awards with Khaleej Times, championing excellence in HR leadership. Named Entrepreneur of the Year by the FSB London Business Awards, Alice is also a regular commentator on talent, leadership, and workplace trends in the Evening Standard and regional business press.
From our offices in London, Paris, and Dubai, our team of expert consultants source the best talent globally – from PR pros to digital marketing experts and beyond.
Discover our teamTalent is the heart of our business. We’re always interested in speaking with well-rounded and engaging individuals.
Work for usExplore exciting opportunities in communications, sustainability, public affairs and policy, digital marketing and sales across the UK, Europe, the USA and the Middle East.
View JobsWe tailor our headhunting approach to each unique brief, combining proven methods to deliver exceptional recruitment outcomes.
Learn moreHanson Search’s knowledge of the market is up to date and accurate, they understand day to day needs for their clients, but their real USP is the ability to introduce talent that enables ambition & growth.
Talent Partner, Blakeney
Hanson Search is a trusted and valued recruitment partner to MHP Group. They know the business and the teams they work across well and always strive to provide us with the most high-quality candidates.
Talent Partner, MHP Group
The Hanson Search team truly places quality over quantity and it’s refreshing. Their robust screening process means that you may only view a handful of candidates but each one of them has something to offer the role.
Head of Campaigns, Third Bridge
Hanson Search has been instrumental in identifying and recruiting senior executives for RAK Tourism. They deeply understood the nature of the roles and people we need and provided excellent candidates.
CEO, RAK Tourism
Hanson Search quickly ‘got’ us. They were proactive in their search and responsive in their service right from the outset. Very happy client.
MD, firstlightPR, Paul Davies
Hanson Search understands our business and is able to identify very strong candidates at all levels.
Managing Partner, Brunswick Group - Gulf, Rupert Young
I’ve worked with headhunters for the past 20 years, but I’ve found Hanson Search has a better understanding of how to attract and secure the right talent for our market.
CEO, Hanover, Charles Lewington