NPAworldwide Forms Alliance with Dimensional Search Associates
August 31, 2026 – Member-owned recruitment network NPAworldwide has formed a strategic partnership with the Sanford Rose Associates family of companies, including Dimensional Search Associates. “This partnership brings together two strong organizations with complementary strengths and a shared commitment to helping independent recruiting firms succeed,” NPAworldwide said. “For NPAworldwide, the agreement represents a meaningful extension of its mission to connect independent recruiting firms for success locally and worldwide. Dimensional Search Associates firms are an excellent membership match for NPAworldwide, strengthening the recruitment community it has built since 1956.”
Through Dimensional Search’s affiliation with NPAworldwide’s global recruitment community, they gain access to split placement revenue opportunities, alongside a network of search firm owners who are invested in each other’s success.
“We are excited about the opportunities this alliance creates and the value it will bring to our members,” said Patti Steen, NPAworldwide board chair and interim president. “By combining the strengths of Sanford Rose Associates/ Dimensional Search, and NPAworldwide, we are building a stronger, more connected recruiting community where collaboration, shared expertise, and new business opportunities help every member achieve greater success. We look forward to growing together and celebrating the many partnerships and accomplishments that lie ahead.”
“The partnership reflects a shared belief that collaboration, not competition, drives better outcomes for recruitment firm owners, their clients, and the candidates they serve,” Ms. Steen continued. “Both organizations are committed to supporting independent firms at every stage of their growth, from launch through scale.”
Dimensional Search Associates is a national franchise recruiting network made up of independently owned firms specializing in executive search. The organization provides franchise owners with tools, resources, and infrastructure to launch their businesses with confidence.
NPAworldwide is a global recruitment network facilitating placements between its member firms. The recruitment network has more than 550 member offices across six continents. Its headquarters is in Grand Rapids, MI.
Board Appointments
Earlier this year, NPAworldwide elected a new slate of representatives to its board of directors. The election was held during the group’s virtual annual owners meeting. Member-owners also accepted a financial report, amended the organizational bylaws, confirmed the actions of the board of directors and conducted other official business. NPAworldwide member-owner Patti Steen of The Pelsten Group automatically acceded to a two-year term as chair, after being elected last year to a one-year term as chair-elect. Ms. Steen previously served as secretary/treasurer and prior to that was a multi-term director and practice group leader.
“I’m truly honored and excited to be elected as board chair of NPAworldwide, a member-owned organization, Ms. Steen said. “What makes this role especially meaningful is that it represents all our members—their voices, their investment, and their shared vision.”
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“As board chair, my focus is on strengthening our organization by growing membership, deepening engagement, and ensuring every member experiences real value and success from being part of NPAworldwide,” Ms. Steen continued. “Achieving these priorities will require all of us—board members, committees, and members alike—to actively shape a community that is engaged, supportive, and impactful. I’m energized by what we’ve built together and even more excited about where we’re headed next.”
The following individuals were re-elected for a second two-year term:
- Jenn Anderson, Prestige Recruiting Firm (New York, NY) – director for Americas East.
- Melanie Johnson, Sunrock Recruitment (London, U.K.) – director for EMEA.
- Parvathy Krishnan, Cucumber Consultants (Hyderabad, India) – director for Asia.
Ms. Steen congratulated the new directors on their successful re-elections. “It takes dedication, integrity, and a deep commitment to our members to serve in this role,” she said. “Board directors give their time, expertise, and judgment to ensure that the network not only operates effectively today but continues to thrive for future generations of members.”
The remaining officers and directors are immediate past chair Pam Robison, secretary/treasurer Tim Lane and directors Phil Chappel, Patrick Long, and Andrew Thoseby.
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Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief and Dale M. Zupsansky, Executive Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media
