Worldwide executive search average net revenue rose 20% year-over-year in the third quarter of 2007, the Association of Executive Search Consultants reported today. And the number of searches begun rose 6.5% year-over-year.

The nonprofit sector registered the greatest year-over-year increase in seaches begun, up 27%. But all industries posted increases, even financial services which was up 1%.

"This is encouraging news, particularly in light of the recent credit crisis," said AESC President Peter Felix. "Although the shakeup in financial markets will inevitably impact hiring in certain parts of the financial services industry, we have not yet seen any major impact in other sectors and our members around the world remain cautiously optimistic."