Nexus Search Partners Continues Growth with New Senior Partner
February 16, 2024 – Nexus Search Partners, an executive search and advisory firm in Charlotte, NC, has named Mary Winston as a senior partner. “Nexus could not be more proud to have Mary on our team,” said Thaddeus V. Jones, founder and managing partner of Nexus. “Her years of experience across diverse industries and corporate strategy acumen will be instrumental in helping Nexus achieve its next milestones. More importantly, Mary brings the same sense of purpose and an intentional, values-driven mindset that will be integral to not only meeting our clients’ needs, but to continuing to grow the Nexus brand and reimagine what executive search can be.”
Ms. Winston is a seasoned executive who has held key leadership positions with several U.S. retail giants and serves on the public boards of Northrop Grumman, TD Bank Group, Acuity Brands Inc., and Chipotle Mexican Grill. Previously, she held chief financial officer roles at national retailer Family Dollar, grocery and convenience chain Giant Eagle, and global media and publishing company Scholastic. She assumed the role of interim CEO at Bed Bath & Beyond from May to November 2019, making her just the second Black woman to serve as CEO of a Fortune 500 company.
“I’ve had the good fortune to spend the better part of my life building a successful career, one that has challenged me and helped me to become the leader I am today, and while my corporate work will continue, I am also overjoyed to have the opportunity to more fully lean into my purpose and passion – helping companies hire, develop and engage diverse leaders – by joining the Nexus team,” said Ms. Winston. “Nexus’ purpose-driven, people-first ethos is a true differentiator in the executive search field and aligns seamlessly with the goals I’ve set for my next chapter. I feel privileged to be joining this team of disruptors and innovators, and I look forward to the future we will build together.”
Related: Nexus Search Partners Recruits CHRO for Charlotte Pipe and Foundry Co.
Nexus Search Partners was launched in 2022. The firm’s executive search process is built on four comprehensive pillars: in-depth cultural assessments, transparency and accountability, diverse candidate slates, and SVP+ executive coaching. Nexus Search Partners places cross-functional executives in consumer products and services, energy, financial and professional services, life sciences, private equity, and technology.
Other Recent Hire
Nexus Search Partners also recently added former Amazon and Microsoft executive Sean Kelley as a senior partner. “With Sean Kelley joining Nexus’ leadership team, we aren’t just gaining a senior partner with a remarkable track record,” said Mr. Jones. “We’re gaining a dedicated ally who understands that ID&E isn’t just a box to check, but a fundamental strength to be embraced. His perspective and passion for leveling the playing field for underestimated talent – particularly veterans – and creating opportunities at the executive level align seamlessly with Nexus’ core values. There are people who care about ID&E because it’s part of their job, and then there are people who care about ID&E because it’s part of their soul – and Sean Kelley is the latter.”
Mr. Kelley is a former Amazon and Microsoft executive who pioneered the development of inclusive talent strategies and military veteran transition programs. His nationally recognized expertise will elevate the firm’s robust consultative offerings across a number of verticals, including technology, consumer products, financial services, private equity and venture capital and life sciences.
“I’ve been fortunate throughout my career to be a stalwart ally for inclusive leadership and to create values-driven change with people and companies I deeply admire,” said Mr. Kelley. “When Thadd first approached me with his vision for Nexus and the very real possibility to transform executive search, I knew it was an organization – and role – I wanted to sink my teeth into. My life’s work parallels Nexus’ mission to create opportunities for diverse leaders at the executive level, and I’m excited to spark candidate-centric, systemic change in the executive search industry.”
Related: Nexus Search Partners Recruits CEO for the YMCA of Greater Charlotte
Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief; Dale M. Zupsansky, Executive Editor; Lily Fauver, Senior Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media
