DHR Global Grows New York Office
December 5, 2024 – Talent advisory firm DHR Global has expanded with the addition of Robert Kobayashi as managing partner in the New York office. As a key member of the financial services, technology, and industrial practice groups, he will provide strategic guidance to clients seeking top-tier executive talent in these dynamic sectors.
With more than 22 years of executive search experience and over 25 years in corporate and investment banking, including senior leadership roles, Mr. Kobayashi is an accomplished talent advisor on a multinational scale. He has a track record in placing executives in the financial services, technology, and industrial sectors with a focus on global and cross-border clients, particularly multinational U.S., European, and Asian companies. Mr. Kobayashi is skilled in executive search, consulting, business development, cross-functional team leadership, and executive management. “Kobayashi’s insights and extensive network allow him to navigate complex talent landscapes and deliver focused solutions that align with clients’ objectives,” DHR said.
Previously, Mr. Kobayashi was a partner in Odgers Berndtson’s New York office and a key member of the firm’s financial services and technology practices. In this role, he focused on global and cross-border clients, particularly multinational U.S., European, and Japanese companies. Before this, Mr. Kobayashi lead the New York office of NGS Global and was managing partner for the firm’s financial services practice in the Americas. He was also a key member of NGS Global’s advanced technology, industrial and automotive practices. Before his career in executive search, Mr. Kobayashi worked at the Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi, where he managed the corporate banking divisions in Tokyo and Chicago, the human resources department in New York, and the European credit division in London.
“I’m honored to be part of DHR Global and look forward to forging strong relationships with our clients and the dedicated DHR team,” said Mr. Kobayashi. “Together, we’ll create meaningful solutions that propel organizations forward.”
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.
Recent Appointments
This past spring, DHR appointed Ayman Haddad as vice chairman. In his new role, Mr. Haddad will continue to play a pivotal role in DHR’s ongoing expansion across the Middle East and Africa, with a strategic focus on entering new growth markets, including Saudi Arabia. “Ayman’s elevation to vice chairman is a testament to his exceptional team leadership and commitment,” said Geoff Hoffmann, CEO of DHR Global. “His strategic partnership and expertise have added significant value to our clients, firm, and people.”
Related: DHR Global Launches Corporate Affairs and Communications Practice
In addition, Mr. Haddad retained his position as the managing partner for the Middle East and Africa region and leader of the EMEA financial services practice. His expertise lies in advising local and multinational companies during critical organizational phases, including turnarounds, mergers and acquisitions, and growth stages. Notably, in 2012, Mr. Haddad led the establishment of DHR’s first Middle East office in Dubai.
DHR Global expanded with the additions of Sarah Zielke and David Morgenbesser as partners. Ms. Zielke, who joins the firm’s Chiago office will also be member of the healthcare services & solutions and private equity practice groups. She brings more than 25 years of experience in executive search and leadership consulting, with a deep focus on healthcare and private equity. Ms. Zielke’s expertise lies in identifying C-suite executives for leading organizations, helping to drive senior leadership across industries. Before joining DHR, she was a partner at a boutique executive search firm, where she specialized in private equity and supported healthcare organizations in finding senior leaders.
DHR also recently appointed Priya Taneja as chief operating officer. “We are thrilled to have Priya take on the role of chief operating officer,” said Mr. Hoffmann. “Her client service orientation, strategic mindset, and dedication to excellence will continue to be instrumental in implementing our growth strategies around the globe. Priya’s commitment to our clients and team members make her the ideal choice for this critical position.” As COO, Ms. Taneja will be pivotal in shaping the firm’s strategic direction and operational excellence. Her appointment to her new role comes with a strong endorsement of her capabilities and contributions to DHR. With over a decade of service, she has been integral to the firm’s success, consistently demonstrating exceptional leadership and deep industry understanding, DHR notes.
In addition to her current role overseeing people operations, recruiting and research, learning and development, and administration, Ms. Taneja’s expanded responsibilities include managing day-to-day operations and spearheading strategic projects. She will also focus on the firm’s financial management, talent development, and technology integration efforts while fostering a vibrant corporate culture.
Related: DHR Global Appoints Leader of Los Angeles Office
Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief and Dale M. Zupsansky, Executive Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media
