About us
Over a decade of expertise in recruitment and executive search, delivering tailored solutions for established businesses, start-ups, scale-ups, and SMEs.
Expert Recruitment, Executive Search & Talent Acquisition
Having worked with global leaders in recruitment and executive search such as Michael Page, Korn Ferry, and Acre, Ricardo has a proven track record of managing and executing complex and impactful searches.
At Korn Ferry, Ricardo was instrumental in setting up the Benelux Centre of Expertise (CoE) for Procurement, Supply Chain, and Operations, where he developed and implemented search strategies across these critical sectors. Prior to this, at Michael Page, Ricardo focused on similar expertise within Procurement, Supply Chain, and Operations, but with a specific focus on the Dutch market. Additionally, Ricardo contributed significantly to Acre’s first European office, leading diverse searches that ranged from specialist roles to executive leadership and board appointments across multiple industries.
Now, leveraging this wealth of expertise, Ricardo Pengel has launched Heron Search, a boutique recruitment firm focused on providing both contingent (“no cure, no pay”) and retained executive and professional search services. The firm will serve well-established organizations, dynamic start-ups, scale-ups, and growing SMEs, helping them secure top talent to drive success and sustainable growth.
Where Global Perspective Meets Purpose-Driven Executive Search
Thaddeus brings an internationally grounded perspective shaped by studies in Australia and Belgium and an early career in Urban and Regional Planning. He began his professional journey in a Malaysian architecture and planning firm before transitioning into recruitment, where he quickly made his mark. As an early hire at an IT and Technology recruitment start-up, he played a key role in scaling the business and building long-term partnerships with global clients across the finance and SaaS sectors.
Motivated by a deep interest in sustainability, Thaddeus joined Acre and contributed to the growth of the firm’s European presence within the Sustainable Business practice. He delivered specialist through to executive-level searches across the Benelux, DACH, and French markets, including mandates such as Head of Sustainability, Standards Director, and LCA Specialist and supported team builds for leading global standard setters. His experience spans consumer goods and manufacturing, agriculture and commodities, standards and certification bodies, and mission-driven NGOs.
At Heron Search, Thaddeus applies a partnership-first, insight-driven approach to search and advisory. Combining technical depth with a people-centred mindset, he supports purpose-led organisations in identifying and securing the talent they need to deliver real, lasting impact.
In addition to comprehensive recruitment and executive search solutions, Heron Search also offers freelance support for recruitment, executive search, and talent acquisition, providing flexible, high-impact assistance on a project-by-project basis.
Why Choose Heron Search?
With over a decade of experience in recruitment and executive search , we have a proven ability to navigate complex talent needs across multiple sectors. Whether it’s filling specialist roles, leadership positions, or executive board appointments, we offer tailored strategies that align with your specific requirements. Drawing on extensive experience across the EMEA region and a global network, we connect you with top- tier talent. Over the years, we have built a strong history of long-term, trust-based relationships with both clients and candidates, and we remain committed to providing recruitment solutions that are efficient, impactful, and aligned with your business goals and values. At Heron Search, we are dedicated to delivering recruitment excellence that helps businesses build high-performing teams while empowering candidates to advance in their careers. We look forward to partnering with you to find the right talent and drive your success forward.