Emma Panariello
Emma’s career in executive search began in 1998 when she joined a leading international search firm in London. She first started working with Nik and the team at Pratap Executive in 2014.
Her passion for the industry has driven her career progression, focusing on several key specialisms including telecoms, emerging technologies, enterprise software, and fintech. She has successfully delivered C-suite search campaigns, developing deep expertise in identifying and securing top-tier talent in highly competitive sectors.
Emma took a six-year break from recruitment to pursue a personal passion, becoming CEO of a cancer charity. During this time, she significantly expanded her leadership and commercial acumen, gaining invaluable insight into the challenges business leaders face while continuing to grow her network. She also served as Chair of a women’s support charity, further deepening her commitment to purpose-driven leadership.
Now, Emma is delighted to be part of Pratap Executive, reconnecting with a team she has worked closely with for many years. She brings a fresh perspective, combining her CEO experience with the latest advancements in search technology to enhance the executive search process. Her ability to understand leadership complexities and strategic decision-making enables her to deliver high-impact solutions, helping businesses secure the exceptional talent they need to drive their long-term goals.
Key Highlights:
- 20+ years delivering executive search campaigns across diverse sectors
- Experience working nationally, internationally, and regionally
- Former CEO of a cancer charity
- Former Chair of a women’s support charity
With over two decades in executive search, I have helped businesses identify and secure outstanding leadership talent across evolving industries. My experience as a CEO gave me first-hand insight into the challenges leaders face, shaping the way I approach executive search today. Returning to Pratap Executive allows me to combine my expertise in search with a fresh perspective on leadership, ensuring we deliver not just candidates, but long-term solutions. Executive search is more than filling a role—it’s about aligning ambition, culture, and values to create lasting impact.
Facts about Emma
Health & Wellbeing
Emma is passionate about health and wellbeing, with a particular interest in yoga, pilates and nutrition. Living in the scenic Peak District with her daughter, she enjoys running in the stunning local landscape. While she has previously participated in marathons, she now prefers a more relaxed (easier!) approach to fitness.
Travel & Food
Outside of her professional life, Emma loves traveling to new places, exploring different cultures, and experimenting with creative recipes. She has a real passion for cooking and entertaining and believes that good food and wine are the perfect ingredients for bringing people together.
Charity
Emma’s commitment to giving back is an important part of her life. She took a six year break from her recruitment career to take on the role as CEO of a cancer charity, where she ran a service providing support to families affected by cancer. In addition, Emma has been the Chair of a women’s trauma therapy charity, an organisation making a positive impact on the lives of women facing complex challenges. She remains deeply passionate about these causes and continues to advocate for the importance of support and healing within these areas.
