Alexander Hughes Names Heads of Global Defense Practice
April 29, 2026 – Alexander Hughes has named Norbert Alix-Buguet as head of its global defense practice. Jean-Brice Le Gayic was also named co‑head of the practice. “The unique added value of this duo lies in their ability to gain an in‑depth understanding of the strategic and operational challenges of such a demanding sector as defense, and to support their clients in identifying and selecting the talent they need today and in the future,” Alexander Hughes said.
“Political tensions, rising national budgets, rapid technological innovation and increasing competition among major powers have positioned the defense sector as one of the most dynamic and fast‑evolving industries worldwide,” the firm continued. “This environment requires leaders who can operate at the crossroads of strategy, technology and national security, ensuring direction, resilience and long‑term capability development.”
“Beyond technical knowledge, leadership in the defense sector requires a sophisticated understanding of geopolitical dynamics, regulatory frameworks, confidentiality requirements and high‑stake international partnerships,” Alexander Hughes said. “At Alexander Hughes, we recognize that recruiting leaders in the defense industry goes far beyond assessing experience. It requires evaluating strategic vision, cultural alignment, ethical responsibility and the ability to operate in sensitive, mission‑critical environments.”
Strengthened Global Capability
“With this duo of experts at the helm of the practice, we reaffirm our commitment to delivering our clients—industrial groups, specialized manufacturers, technology innovators, public institutions and international organizations —the same high level of service in France and internationally,” Alexander Hughes continued. “This new leadership marks an important step in reinforcing our position as a trusted partner for executive search in the defense sector.”
Mr. Alix-Buguet is managing partner at Managers by Alexander Hughes Paris and a seasoned expert with more than 35 years in recruiting C-Level positions. Between 2010 and 2012, he was CEO and commercial director at APRIL ENTREPRISE. Mr. Alix-Buguet began his executive search career in 2016 after more than two decades of experience in sales, marketing, and management. He leverages his experience in the insurance, banking and consulting sectors.
Mr. Le Gayic has been a client partner at Managers by Alexander Hughes since 2010. He first worked as a research associate for the president on top executive assignments, acquiring a solid background in executive search methodologies. Mr. Le Gayic successfully recruited several executive board members, senior managers, technical experts and also support functions, in various industrial sectors such as Fine chemicals, automotive, agro-industry and in the construction field. After few years’ experience at a top level, he decided to evolve as an executive search consultant for Managers by Alexander Hughes, assisting companies on strategic recruitment matters, such as attracting experienced managers, high-end specialists and high-flyers.
Related: Alexander Hughes Appoints Global Co-Leaders of Digital & AI Practice
Founded in 1957, Alexander Hughes is an international executive search firm advising senior management on key talent acquisition: executive and non-executive directors, senior managers and recognized experts. With 60 offices, Alexander Hughes has a fully-owned worldwide coverage offering local expertise combined with global capabilities. The team includes more than 130 consultants operating in 10 practices, ranging from financial services and technology to life sciences, industrial manufacturing, and consumer markets.
New U.K. and Ireland Leader
Alexander Hughes recently appointed Richard Ingram as managing partner U.K. and Ireland. In his new position, he will lead the firm’s activities across the U.K. and Ireland, supporting strategic growth and strengthening client partnerships across key sectors.
With over three decades of international executive search experience, Mr. Ingram has built a track record advising clients at the most senior level across a wide range of industries. His experience includes working with sovereign wealth funds and royal offices in the Middle East, as well as leading mandates across banking and financial services in the U.K., Middle East, and Hong Kong. His sector expertise spans mining, aluminum, plastics, packaging, and district energy, alongside significant work with blue-chip multinationals in technology, telecommunications, FMCG, pharmaceuticals, and life sciences, as well as large family-owned conglomerates.
Mr. Ingram began his entrepreneurial journey in 1994 with the establishment of Ingram & Partners in Dubai. He subsequently founded and developed additional recruitment platforms, including iQ Selection and Indigo ICT, the latter expanding into Hong Kong.
Following the sale of two of these firms to U.K.-listed Imprint plc, Mr. Ingram remained with the group during the earn-out period. After its delisting, he re-acquired the executive search business and later partnered with Healy Hunt, a London-based recruitment firm specializing in financial services. He most recently re-established his own boutique search firm prior to joining Alexander Hughes.
Related: Alexander Hughes Names Head of Global Legal Practice
Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief and Dale M. Zupsansky, Executive Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media
