InX spotlight series: In conversation with Molly Gray
At InX, exceptional results are delivered by exceptional people. Our team combines deep specialist knowledge, market intelligence and a relentless focus on quality. This spotlight series offers insight into the people behind our practice, exploring how they navigate the executive search landscape and what drives them beyond the office.
In this edition, we sat down with Molly Gray, Research & Delivery Lead in InX’s UK Professional Services practice, to discuss the trends shaping senior hiring across strategy, transactions and value creation, and what nearly nine years in search has taught her about understanding what candidates really want.
Firstly, could you provide an overview of your role and area of specialism at InX?
I’m a Research & Delivery Lead within InX’s Professional Services Practice, working closely with Partners across the business to deliver retained executive search assignments across strategy, transactions and value creation.
My focus is predominantly on senior leadership hires, typically Director, Managing Director and Partner-level appointments. I work across the full search lifecycle, from market mapping and candidate identification through to candidate assessment, shortlist delivery and client engagement, whilst also supporting Manager and Senior Manager level appointments as part of wider team build outs where required.
The executive search market is fiercely competitive; what would you say sets InX apart?
The depth of experience and specialism across the team. Everyone has their own area of expertise, networks and market knowledge, whether that's a particular sector, functional area or geography, and that gives us access to a broad network of talent across the UK and Europe. We also work very collaboratively, sharing insights and relationships across the business, which helps us deliver the best possible outcome for both clients and candidates.
What interesting trends are you noticing in your market?
A couple of themes stand out. One is the increasing demand for aerospace and defence expertise across the consulting market. It's a specialist area, so firms are often competing for a relatively small pool of experienced talent.
The other is value creation, which continues to be a big focus for many organisations. Businesses are looking for people who can help drive growth, improve profitability and deliver meaningful outcomes, particularly following an acquisition. There's a lot of demand for individuals who can not only shape the strategy but also roll up their sleeves and help deliver it.
Can you share an example of a particularly complex or rewarding mandate you've delivered? What made it memorable?
One particularly rewarding assignment I've supported has been within the aerospace and defence sector, which ties into one of the aforementioned market trends. As demand for aerospace and defence expertise continues to grow, firms are often competing for a relatively small pool of individuals with the right blend of consulting experience, industry knowledge and leadership capability.
What made the search especially interesting was the challenge of identifying candidates who could combine strategic advisory experience with hands-on sector expertise. It required extensive market mapping and engagement across both consulting and industry and reinforced the importance of taking a targeted approach to uncovering talent in highly specialised markets.
What's the best piece of career advice you've ever received?
Stay curious. A big part of executive search is understanding people, what motivates them, what they value and what they're ultimately looking for in their careers.
Rather than trying to persuade someone to take a role, I've found it's far more important to understand their drivers and determine whether it's genuinely the right opportunity for them. That mindset has helped me build stronger relationships and better long-term outcomes for both clients and candidates.
If you weren't in executive search, what career path might you have taken?
I think I would have pursued something within the performing arts. I studied dance and singing at college, and it's always been something I've enjoyed. Whilst my career took me in a different direction, I still have a real appreciation for theatre, music and live performances.
Outside of work, what might people be surprised to learn about you?
Although I'm a very active person and regularly enjoy strength training and Pilates, I've never considered myself a natural runner. That said, after securing a ballot place, I completed the London Marathon in 2025 — a huge personal challenge that pushed me well outside my comfort zone.
Get in touch with the InX Professional Services team
Whether you're a practice leader looking to build out a specialist capability, or a senior consultant considering your next move within professional services, connect with Molly or get in touch to explore how InX can help.