Redefining Executive Search, Global Talent Strategy & Financial Services Leadership
In a significant leadership milestone within the global executive search and financial services ecosystem, Shikha Khanna has been appointed Managing Director at Options Group, marking a new chapter in a career defined by strategic insight, operational excellence, and long-term client partnerships.
With over two decades of experience across executive search, talent advisory, and business leadership, Shikha’s elevation reflects Options Group’s continued focus on delivering research-led, high-impact talent solutions across global financial markets.
Stepping into the Managing Director Role
As Managing Director, Shikha plays a pivotal role in shaping Options Group’s strategic direction across India and global markets. Her mandate spans leadership, growth, and the delivery of complex executive search engagements for clients operating in fast-evolving financial services and technology landscapes.
Her responsibilities include:
- Leading senior-level executive search across capital markets, global markets, alternatives, hedge funds, and wealth management
- Partnering with founders, boards, and C-suite leaders on critical leadership decisions
- Driving client-centric, research-backed talent solutions
- Strengthening Options Group’s presence as a trusted advisor across global financial hubs
- Mentoring and developing high-performing consulting and research teams
Her approach blends deep market intelligence with relationship-driven execution—an essential combination in today’s competitive leadership landscape.
A Decade of Impact at Options Group
Before assuming the Managing Director role, Shikha served as Executive Director at Options Group for over ten years, where she played a central role in building and scaling the firm’s India operations and client portfolio.
During this phase, she:
- Led senior mandates across investment banking, capital markets, and financial services
- Built enduring relationships with global institutions and leadership teams
- Delivered complex, cross-border executive search engagements
- Helped position Options Group as a benchmark firm for financial services talent in the region
Her tenure reflects consistency, credibility, and the ability to evolve alongside changing market dynamics.
Building Foundations at Mancer Consulting Services
Earlier in her career, Shikha spent nearly a decade at Mancer Consulting Services, where she served as Practice Head, leading the growth of the Mumbai operations.
Key contributions included:
- Driving business growth across BFSI, ITES, and investment banking verticals
- Holding full P&L responsibility for the Mumbai region
- Managing recruitment SLAs, KRAs, and delivery governance
- Building a performance-driven, people-first culture
- Collaborating across industries to enable cross-functional revenue generation
This phase laid the foundation for her leadership philosophy–balancing commercial accountability with team empowerment.
Leadership Philosophy: Where Research Meets Relationships
Across every stage of her journey, Shikha Khanna’s leadership has been guided by a clear belief:
- Executive search is a strategic partnership, not a transaction
- Deep research is the backbone of successful leadership placements
- Long-term value is built through trust, insight, and execution discipline
- People, culture, and leadership alignment drive sustainable growth
Her work reflects the evolution of executive search–from traditional hiring to strategic talent advisory.
CXO Gateway Reflection
At CXO Gateway, we see Shikha Khanna’s appointment as Managing Director at Options Group as a strong signal of how executive search leadership is evolving globally.
With her deep expertise across financial services, proven ability to scale teams and businesses, and commitment to research-led outcomes, Shikha represents the next generation of executive search leaders–those who shape leadership agendas, not just fill roles.
As organizations navigate transformation, regulation, and global competition, leaders like Shikha play a critical role in ensuring the right talent sits at the helm.