Nexus Search Partners Recruits President and CEO for McColl Center
November 19, 2024 – Following a comprehensive national search, Nexus Search Partners has helped to recruit Asa Jackson as the new president and CEO for McColl Center. “Jackson, a multidisciplinary artist and accomplished arts leader, emerged as the top candidate after a nationwide search conducted by McColl Center’s board of directors in partnership with Nexus Search Partners,” the organization said.
“As a purpose-driven executive search firm, we partnered with McColl Center’s board of directors to identify a leader who could advance the organization’s mission while bringing fresh perspective and proven leadership experience,” Nexus Search Partners said. “Our thorough discovery and assessment process led us to Jackson, a multidisciplinary artist and accomplished arts leader who brings a unique connection to McColl Center as a former artist-in-residence.”
“Asa Jackson’s dedication to fostering artistic talent, paired with his experience as a nonprofit leader, makes him an extraordinary choice for McColl Center’s future,” said Vicki Block, chair of McColl Center’s board of directors. “We’re excited to see him carry forward our mission and deepen our impact in the arts community.”
Mr. Jackson has demonstrated exceptional leadership as co-founder and executive director of the Contemporary Arts Network (CAN) Foundation, a arts non-profit in Newport News, VA. The organization focuses on building sustainable careers for artists through community-focused initiatives, professional development, and strategic partnerships. Under his leadership, CAN Foundation successfully launched innovative programs including the CAN Residency, professional development workshops, and collaborative exhibitions that connect artists with essential resources and networks.
Mr. Jackson’s artistic accomplishments include exhibitions at prestigious venues such as MoCA Arlington, the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, Hodges Taylor Gallery in Charlotte, and the Harvey B. Gantt Center in Charlotte. His works are included in distinguished collections including the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Capital One Corporate Collection, The Rockwell Museum, and the Hascoe Collection. His leadership extends to policy advocacy through his service on the Virginia Commission for the Arts, where he served as chair for the 2022 fiscal year.
“I am deeply honored and excited to join McColl Center at this pivotal moment,” said Mr. Jackson. “My experience as a resident artist here was transformative, and I look forward to leading an organization that has been a cornerstone in empowering artists and fostering creativity. Together with McColl Center’s talented team, I’m eager to deepen our impact and expand opportunities for artists to thrive.”
Related: Nexus Search Partners Recruits CEO for the YMCA of Greater Charlotte
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.
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Founder Thaddeus Jones has spent nearly two decades leading human resources talent management teams for some of the world’s largest companies, including Amazon, Lowe’s Home Improvement, and Target. He most recently served as executive vice president and chief talent officer for Red Ventures, a multi-billion dollar operating private equity company with more than 21 companies in its portfolio. It is also one of the largest digital media companies in the U.S.
Recent Search
Nexus Search Partners recently assisted in the recruitment of Taylor McKenzie as the new director of talent at Charlotte Pipe and Foundry Company. “Charlotte Pipe has a long-standing tradition of prioritizing their workforce and the hiring of this role is further evidence of the company’s commitment to the experience of each and every associate,” said Tim Clinkenbeard, CHRO at Charlotte Pipe and Foundry Company. “Taylor is a talented individual who will make a tremendous mark on Charlotte Pipe for years to come.”
“This placement underscores Nexus Search Partners’ commitment to connecting exceptional talent with industry-leading organizations,” the search firm said. “We are confident that Taylor’s skills and experience will contribute significantly to Charlotte Pipe’s continued success and its mission of producing the best possible products while providing the best possible service. We extend our congratulations to both Taylor McKenzie and the team at Charlotte Pipe and Foundry Company and look forward to seeing the positive impact of this partnership in the years to come.”
Related: Nexus Search Partners Places Chief Diversity Officer for RAND Corp.
Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief and Dale M. Zupsansky, Executive Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media
