DHR Global Adds Partner in Chicago
September 11, 2025 – Talent advisory firm DHR Global has grown its search staff with the addition of Trista McCarthy as a partner. Based in Chicago, she brings over 25 years of experience in executive search, with a focus on senior-level placements across large public clients and mid-market private equity-backed businesses in the services and industrial sectors. “We are excited to welcome Trista to DHR,” said April Drury, chief talent officer at DHR Global. “Her entrepreneurial mindset and proven success working with private equity firms and their portfolio companies will further strengthen our ability to serve clients navigating growth, transformation, and value creation.”
Ms. McCarthy collaborates with clients to place C-suite and executive leaders who drive transformation, growth, and long-term value. Known for her entrepreneurial approach and deep understanding of evolving talent needs, DHR noted that she has earned a reputation in the executive search industry as a trusted advisor to investors, boards, and CEOs.
Prior to joining DHR, Ms. McCarthy held senior roles at several leading talent advisory firms including Modern Executive Solutions and JM Search, where she led searches for C-suite leaders across operations, finance, marketing, and commercial functions. She was consistently recognized as a top-performing consultant within the private equity sector. Earlier in her career, Ms. McCarthy worked in brand marketing and advertising and later served as global head of talent for a publicly traded company operating in more than 40 countries.
“DHR’s global platform and connected culture create the perfect environment to support my clients and extend the impact of my work,” said Ms. McCarthy. “I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues across the firm and continuing to help organizations find and develop the leaders who will shape their future.”
Since 1989, DHR Global has been a leading, privately held provider of executive search solutions with more than 50 wholly owned offices spanning the globe. The firm’s consultants specialize in all industries and functions, providing senior-level executive search, management assessment, and succession planning services.
First Woman, Nonfamily Member CEO
DHR recently appointed Priya Taneja as CEO. She succeeded Geoff Hoffmann, who has transitioned to the role of chairman of the board. This milestone marks a historic moment for the firm, as Ms. Taneja becomes the first nonfamily CEO in DHR’s 36-year history signaling a deliberate step forward as the firm accelerates into the next era of growth. She also became the third woman and first of color to run a top 10 executive search firm. Founded in 1989 by the family patriarch David Hoffmann, DHR last saw a leadership transition in 2012 when Geoff succeeded David as CEO.
Related: DHR Global Appoints Leader for Houston Office
“Priya is a dynamic, trusted, and forward-thinking leader,” said Mr. Hoffmann. “She brings a rare ability to lead a global firm while staying deeply connected to our people, our culture, and our stakeholders. This transition has been thoughtfully considered for some time, and I couldn’t be prouder to see her step into this role. She’s the ideal leader for our next chapter, and I’m confident to know that the firm is in exceptionally capable hands.”
DHR Global Appoints First Woman, Nonfamily Member as CEO
DHR Global has marked a historic milestone with the appointment of Priya Taneja as CEO, making her the first nonfamily member — and the first woman of color — to lead the firm in its 36-year history. In an exclusive interview with Hunt Scanlon Media, Ms. Taneja shared her strategic vision for DHR’s next chapter, including thoughtful global expansion, investment in talent, and the integration of innovative technologies to enhance client service. Her appointment signals not only a new era of growth for the firm but also a significant step forward for diversity and representation in the executive search industry.
“The appointment of Priya as DHR’s new CEO marks a historic moment, not just for the firm, but for the executive search industry,” said Christopher W. Hunt, president and co-founder of Hunt Scanlon Media. “Clearly Priya, with nearly a dozen years’ experience in executive search, has a firm hand on the rudder and will lead DHR into what is an ever-changing and complex business world.”
“I’m honored to be the first non-family CEO in DHR’s 36-year history, and I see this as a pivotal moment in our evolution,” Ms. Taneja said. “As I take the helm, I will honor the legacy and values that have made us successful, while ensuring we continue to grow and innovate in a changing market. Our culture of collaboration, integrity, and client focus will remain a strong foundation laid by David and Geoff Hoffmann, even as we embrace new ideas and opportunities that keep us ahead.”
Hunt Scanlon Media recently sat down with Ms. Taneja in an exclusive interview to discuss her strategic vision for driving DHR’s next phase of growth, strengthening its culture, advancing innovation, and breaking barriers as the firm’s first female CEO! Click here to read the full interview!
Related: Advancing Women in Leadership: How Far Have We Come?
Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief and Dale M. Zupsansky, Executive Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media
