Diversified Search Group Selected to Lead Search for Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino
September 14, 2021 – Diversified Search Group (DSG) has been selected to lead the search for the founding director of the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino. Leading the search are Victor Arias, managing partner of the firm’s Dallas office, and Jason León, managing partner of its Washington, D.C. office. “We are honored to have been selected to lead the search for a founding director of the National Museum of the American Latino,” said Mr. Arias. “Our pioneering firm is dedicated to delivering diverse and inclusive leadership, and we look forward to partnering with the Smithsonian to find a superb leader for this museum.”
“We look forward to working with our newly appointed board members and Diversified Search Group to select a founding director for this important new addition to the Smithsonian,” said Kevin Gover, under secretary for museums and culture and chair of the search committee. “DSG’s guidance will be invaluable in selecting a leader who can bring life to this new museum that will showcase the Latino history, art, culture and scientific accomplishment that has contributed so much to the story of our nation.”
The director of the National Museum of the American Latino will be responsible for the establishment and construction of the latest museum to be added to the Smithsonian Institution and the evolving landscape of the National Mall.
Since its founding in 1846, the Smithsonian Institution has been committed to inspiring generations through knowledge and discovery. It is the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, consisting of 19 museums, the National Zoological Park, education centers, research facilities, cultural centers and libraries. Two new museums—the National Museum of the American Latino and the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum—are in development. There are more than 6,300 Smithsonian employees and 6,900 volunteers.
Diversity Experts
Diversified Search Group is a family of recruiting firms serving specialized sectors. The firm was founded almost five decades ago by Judith M. von Seldeneck for the express purpose of placing diverse candidates in client organizations. It is today the largest U.S. female-owned and founded firm in the executive recruitment industry.
Mr. Arias is a managing director and practice leader, consumer and retail at Diversified Search Group, working primarily in the board of directors practice. He is also the leader of the firm’s Dallas-Fort Worth office. Mr. Arias joined the firm in 2019 from RSR Partners, where he had been a managing director in the board of directors practice.
Related: Diversified Search Closes Funding Round, Acquires Koya Leadership Partners
Mr. León is managing director in Diversified Search Group’s Washington, D.C. office, and specializes in non-profit, board and CFO practices. His clients include the March of Dimes, Covenant House of Greater Washington, Martha’s Table and International Justice Mission. Mr. León has placed directors on the boards of Fortune 1000 companies ranging from financial services, to manufacturing, to asset management leaders.
Museum of Science in Boston Search
Diversified Search Group | Koya Partners was recently retained by the Museum of Science in Boston to lead its search for a chief people officer. Spearheading the assignment are managing director Beth Schaefer and senior search associate Josyanne Roche. “At this critical time in its history, the Museum of Science is seeking a dynamic, mission-driven leader to serve as the next chief people officer,” said Koya Partners. “The CPO comes to the Museum of Science at an exciting time under new leadership and a renewed commitment to the great opportunity for impact that institutions like the Museum of Science can have in their community and in the world.”
Koya Partners said that the museum’s new chief people officer must be a highly accomplished leader with a passion for supporting complex, diverse workforces. He or she should have a proven track record of leading HR teams through change and workplace transformation.
In 2020, Koya was acquired by Diversified Search. With the combination of revenues and resources, Diversified Search and Koya now represent one of the largest non-profit and higher education practices in the executive search industry.
Related: Arts Consulting Recruits New Leader for Martha’s Vineyard Museum
Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief; Dale M. Zupsansky, Managing Editor; and Stephen Sawicki, Managing Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media
