How were executioners in the Middle Ages generally chosen/appointed? Based on skill/experience? Political connections? Heredity?

by ExiledToTerminus
Wagrid

u/sunagainstgold wrote this excellent answer some years ago on the subject of an executioner’s training, which I think will be of interest to you.

She also wrote two other answers on the topic of executioners and executions which should go some way towards answering your question.