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SPMB Recruits CFO for AbsenceSoft
SPMB Executive Search has recruited Megan Wood as CFO of AbsenceSoft, a Denver, CO-based employee leave management and accommodations platform. Jon Landau and Laura Ayre led the assignment. “The market opportunity in front of AbsenceSoft is significant, and Megan brings the right financial and operational depth to meet it,” said Chris Murphy, CEO of AbsenceSoft. “Her proven track record at fast-growth, innovative companies on
AGB Search Helps Recruit 20th President for the University of Montana
Washington, D.C.-based recruitment firm AGB Search, which specializes in higher education leadership assignments, has assisted in the recruitment of Jeremiah Shinn as the 20th president of the University of Montana. His selection follows a national search that drew more than 70 accomplished applicants from across the country. Roderick McDavis, James H. McCormick and Janice S. Fitzgerald led the assignment. “Dr. Shinn’s on-campus visit
Executive Recruiters Pull Off Another Remarkable Year, Remain Bullish for 2023
Hunt Scanlon Media has released its annual rankings of leading executive recruiters. In the U.S. and globally, billions of dollars poured into the high-end recruiting sector in 2022, a result of continued pentup demand for senior-level leaders and their key reports.
Boyden Assists Kerry’s Place Autism Services with CEO Search
Boyden has recruited Normandie Wragg as the new president and CEO of Kerry’s Place Autism Services in Ontario. The appointment follows the previously announced retirement of CEO Susan VanDeVelde-Coke at the end of June. The search was led by partners Jim Stonehouse and Pamela Colquhoun, and Kathy Luu, senior associate. “Normandie is a highly accomplished, values-driven
GDPR – The Perfect Time to Refresh Your Database
As executive search firms grapple with the complexities of GDPR, many are concerned that the new regulation will mean deleting thousands of records built up over many years. Surely there must be an alternative?
Modern Executive Solutions Expands Technology Practice
Atlanta-based talent consultancy Modern Executive Solutions has expanded with the addition of Moises Velilla as managing director in its technology practice. He brings deep experience advising organizations on senior leadership hiring and talent strategy across technology and transformation. Mr. Velilla specializes in advising clients on executive talent strategy and recruiting transformative technology and professional services leaders. He
AI’s Next Test: Can It Actually Drive Growth?
A massive opportunity, and a critical trust gap, is emerging among corporate leaders. According to EY-Parthenon’s Growth Survey of 271 U.S. executives, 78 percent believe AI will accelerate growth, even as nearly 80 percent say the growth environment has become more challenging over the past year. Yet only about a third trust AI inputs for high-stakes decisions such
Retained vs. Contingent Search: Choosing the Right Executive Search Model
As companies navigate increasingly complex leadership challenges, the pressure to make the right executive hiring decision has never been greater. Boards and leadership teams are looking beyond resumes and credentials, placing greater emphasis on cultural alignment, long-term business impact, and a candidate’s ability to guide organizations through growth, transformation, and uncertainty. At the same time,
Brettschneider Executive Search Completes Search for Western Colorado University
New York City-based Brettschneider Executive Search recently assisted in the recruitment of Sharoni Little as dean of Western Colorado University’s School of Business. “Dr. Little’s forward-thinking approach will help shape the future of business education at Western, creating opportunities for students to thrive in today’s competitive economy,” said Brad Baca, president. With a career spanning academia, corporate leadership,
Ren Systems Appoints Head of Product
Ren Systems, an AI-powered relationship intelligence platform used by sales, business development, and professional services leaders, recently expanded with the addition of Nick Wynja as head of product. “As we’ve scaled Ren to 70+ enterprise customers and accelerated our feature release cycle, it became clear that we needed focused product leadership,” the company said in
How to Kick Off an Executive Search the Right Way
As leadership demands grow more complex, organizations are increasingly recognizing that a successful executive search begins long before candidate outreach or interviews take place. Search consultants say the strongest outcomes are driven by early alignment around business strategy, organizational culture, leadership expectations, and the capabilities needed to support future growth. Rather than simply filling an
Why Structured Interviews Lead to Better Hiring
As organizations compete for leadership talent, many are reexamining how executive interviews are conducted and whether traditional hiring instincts are leading to the best decisions. Increasingly, research is showing that structured interviews built around standardized questions and evaluation criteria deliver more reliable hiring outcomes than conversational, free-flowing assessments. Talent experts say the approach not only
Rethinking Career Loyalty in the Age of Gen Z and Millennials
As leadership priorities continue to evolve, executive search firms are seeing a growing shift in how candidates evaluate long-term career opportunities. Today’s professionals are placing greater emphasis on purpose, culture, mentorship, flexibility, and personal growth alongside compensation and title. Recruiters say organizations that can clearly communicate vision, invest in employee development, and foster strong leadership
Coulter Partners Recruits Chief Scientific Officer for Laigo Bio
Life sciences recruiting specialist Coulter Partners has recruited Richard C.A. Sainson as the new chief scientific officer of Laigo Bio. “It was a privilege to partner with Matthew and the Laigo board,” said Kay Wardle, managing partner at Coulter Partners. “Targeted protein degradation is one of the most exciting frontier areas of drug discovery, and finding a chief
Blue Rock Human Capital Recruits Chief People Officer for Michelli Weighing & Measurement
Talent acquisition strategies at many large companies have become as complex as their balance sheets. And while chief human resource officers play a vital role in overseeing an organization’s broad-based workforce, the chief people officer typically goes beyond overseeing its people policies. The focus instead is on building talent as a key competitive advantage, with more
Raising the Bar for Interim and Fractional Leadership
As companies face mounting pressure to move faster and adapt to constant change, interim and fractional executives are increasingly being brought in not simply to maintain stability, but to drive transformation from day one. Organizations today are seeking experienced leaders who can step into critical roles, solve immediate business challenges, and create momentum while long-term
BoardWalk Consulting Selected by Atlanta Ballet for Executive Director Search
BoardWalk Consulting has was recently tapped by Atlanta Ballet to lead in its search for an executive director. The search is being led by Sam Pettway, Demeika Wheaton, and Patti Kish. The executive director will lead Atlanta Ballet’s administrative and business functions in alignment with the organization’s mission and values, while partnering closely with the artistic
When Search Fatigue Leads to Costly Hiring Mistakes
In executive search, the biggest hiring mistakes are not always caused by weak candidate pools or poor sourcing strategies. More often, breakdowns occur near the finish line, when prolonged interview cycles, competing stakeholder opinions, and mounting business pressures begin to wear down decision-making discipline. What starts as a rigorous evaluation process can gradually shift toward
Preng & Associates Recruits SVP of Government Services for American Bureau of Shipping
Houston-based Preng & Associates has placed Rear Admiral Ronald J. Rábago as senior vice president of government services at American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). “Admiral Rábago brings exceptional government and industry experience that will further enhance the support we provide to our government clients in the U.S. and around the world,” said John McDonald, ABS chairman and CEO. “His
McDermott + Bull Expands in Amsterdam
Irvine, CA-based McDermott + Bull has expanded in Amsterdam with the addition of Gerben van den Hout as managing director. “This strategic hire comes as McDermott + Bull continues to expand its executive search presence across Europe, further strengthening the firm’s ability to support organizations in identifying and placing high-impact leadership talent,” the firm said. “Gerben’s appointment represents an
The CHRO’s Leadership Imperative in the AI Era
As organizations accelerate their adoption of artificial intelligence, business leaders are increasingly recognizing that successful transformation depends as much on people and leadership as it does on technology itself. HR executives, in particular, are finding themselves at the center of conversations around workforce readiness, employee trust, skills development, and organizational change management. Industry observers note
Cluen Invites Executive Search Firms to Participate in Upcoming 2026 Technology Trends Survey
For more than three decades, Cluen has partnered with leading executive search firms around the world to understand how top-performing recruiters use technology to gain a competitive advantage. Each year, the company’s Top Trends in Executive Search Technology survey uncovers the strategies, priorities, and innovations shaping the future of the profession. How are executive search firms balancing the rapid adoption of AI
Lindauer Retained by C-SPAN for Chief Development Officer Search
Virtually every industry needs top-drawer chief development officers. CDOs play a key role in planning, coordinating, and administering capital campaigns, corporate giving, and galvanizing new donors while keeping previous funders content. Implementing funding strategies that “keep the lights on,” according to recruiters specializing in the function, is job No. 1. Lindauer has been retained by C-SPAN to
NPAG Seeking Executive Director for the California Youth Defender Center
Executive search firm NPAG has been selected by the California Youth Defender Center (CYDC) to lead in its search for a new executive director. This search is being led by Ellen LaPointe and Phuong Quach. This is a unique opportunity to lead a respected and influential organization at a pivotal moment, shaping the future of youth justice
Lochlin Partners Helps Fill Senior Position for Business Roundtable
Lochlin Partners has assisted in the recruitment of Stefani Jones as senior director of policy at Business Roundtable (BRT). Ms. Jones is an accomplished technology policy leader with deep expertise at the intersection of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and national security. Her experience spans the White House, the private sector, and senior federal policy roles. She
Why Executives Should Think Carefully Before Accepting Counteroffers
Few moments in an executive’s career carry as much complexity as the decision to resign from a leadership role and pursue a new opportunity. What often begins as a strategic career move can quickly become emotionally charged once a current employer responds with incentives aimed at reversing that decision. Recruiters and leadership advisors note that
Funk Associates Tapped by the University of North Florida to Lead Search for Eighth President
Funk Associates was recently retained by the University of North Florida (UNF) to lead a national search for its eighth president. Past president Moez Limayem stepped down from his position in early 2026. The presidential search committee, chaired by UNF board of trustees member Jack Boyle, plays a critical role in this process, focusing on
Acertitude Recruits CEO for PE-Backed Zep Inc.
Acertitude has placed Tim Feast as the new CEO of Zep Inc., a Truelink Capital portfolio company. The search was led by partner, Geoff Votta and principal, Rod Vaughan with support from Matthew Marasco and Maryanne Santospirito. Mr. Feast steps into the role with a mandate to accelerate growth, sharpen execution, and lead Zep into its
SearchWide Global Seeking CEO for Visit California
SearchWide Global is currently seeking a new CEO for Visit California. The assignment is being led by Mike Gamble, chairman, CEO, and co-founder of SearchWide. Visit California is seeking a collaborative, visionary, and politically astute leader to serve as the next CEO. As the organization’s chief strategist, brand steward, and operational head, the CEO works
Intersearch Worldwide Elects Chairwoman and New Board Members
InterSearch Worldwide, a global alliance of executive search companies, has announce the newly elected board following and the appointment of Vanessa Delacourt as chairwoman, marking an exciting new chapter and reinforcing the organization’s commitment to innovation and sustainable growth. The board has welcomed: Leslie Cooper A. (Chile); Vanessa Delacourt (Benelux); Frank Schelstraete (Belgium); Henri Vidalinc
Risk Mitigation and Business Complexity is Driving Demand in Legal Recruiting
Demand for senior legal leaders is rising as companies, and law firms face mounting regulatory complexity, global uncertainty, and shifting risks. Boards and CEOs now expect legal executives to be not only technical experts but also strategic business partners who can influence decisions, manage crises, and deliver commercial impact. The bar has never been higher
The CFO Talent Shortage Is Reaching a Breaking Point
According to global talent advisor ZRG, the shortage of chief financial officers and their finance teams is reaching epic proportions as we head into another busy year of executive recruiting. With market complexity increasing, CFOs are in high demand, yet the supply of qualified candidates is dwindling. This shortage is being driven by a convergence of
Waterstone Human Capital Acquires Spectrum Recruiting Solutions
Culture-driven executive search and leadership advisory firm Waterstone Human Capital has acquired Spectrum Recruiting Solutions, a U.S.-based professional recruitment firm specializing in manufacturing and engineering industries. The acquisition continues Waterstone’s expansion and reinforces its commitment to delivering culture-focused talent solutions across North America. “We are thrilled to welcome Spectrum Recruiting Solutions and their outstanding team into
DHR Global Seeking Executive Director for the Glacier National Park Conservancy
Talent advisory firm DHR Global has been selected by the Glacier National Park Conservancy to find its next executive director. Kris McFeely, Tom Berray, and Emma Kemper are leading this search and eager to connect with mission-driven professionals with experience in fundraising, financial management, team leadership, and a passion for conservation. This critical leadership position is responsible for the
The Moran Company Tapped by National Assistance League to Find New Executive Director
The Moran Company, an executive recruitment firm that specializes in the non-profit sector, has been retained by National Assistance League to lead in its search for a new executive director. Senior search consultant Mike English is leading the assignment. The executive director is responsible for the day-to-day operations of National Assistance League, which includes managing staff,
Slone Partners Appoints Partner, Fractional Talent
Life sciences-focused search firm Slone Partners has named George Quinn as partner, fractional talent. In this position, Mr. Quinn will play a crucial part in advancing Slone Partners’ fractional talent solutions – connecting startup and growth-stage life sciences and healthcare organizations with seasoned leaders and functional experts on a flexible, on-demand basis. “George’s depth of experience, strategic mindset, and
How to Improve Your HR Executive Search Process
Securing the right HR leader requires more than a traditional hiring process—it demands the same rigor, clarity, and strategic discipline used for any major business decision. Organizations that consistently make strong HR executive hires treat the search as an enterprise priority, aligning stakeholders early, sharpening evaluation criteria, and building a candidate experience that attracts top
Unemployment Falls to 4.4 Percent as 50,000 New Job Added
Employment rose by 50,000 in December as the U.S. unemployment rate fell to 4.4 percent, according to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report. Employment continued to trend up in food services and drinking places, healthcare, and social assistance. Retail trade lost jobs. The number of unemployed people, at 7.5 million, changed little in December.
7 Questions to Ask When Choosing an International Recruiter
International recruiting quickly becomes a different game altogether—one where local networks, cultural fluency, and trusted on-the-ground connections often matter more than the tools or tactics employers rely on at home. However, many employers do not like working with recruitment companies, according to a report from NPAworldwide. “In markets that employers know well and have social
SearchWide Global Seeking Chief Marketing and Public Relations Officer for Nashville Zoo
Executive recruitment firm SearchWide Global has been retained by Nashville Zoo to lead in its search for a chief marketing and public relations officer. Senior vice president Kellie Henderson is leading the assignment. This executive is responsible for leading the strategic marketing, communications, and public relations efforts of Nashville Zoo. This role oversees all aspects of marketing, media relations, and
Protis Global Appoints EVP of Fulfillment
Executive search and advisory firm Protis Global has appointed Skye Miller as partner and executive vice president of sales fulfillment. “We invest in leadership where it creates the greatest long-term return,” said Bert Miller, chairman and CEO of Protis Global. “Skye’s experience and commitment to developing exceptional talent strengthen our operating foundation and expand our capacity to deliver
How Functional C-Suite Roles Are Changing
Functional C-suite roles are being reshaped by rising complexity, pushing companies to build leadership teams that are not only individually strong but strategically integrated across the enterprise. Spencer Stuart has long tracked the evolution of key functional C-suite roles as part of its client work. Specifically, the firm found that senior functional roles have become
Caldwell Posts 37.1 Percent Increase in Q1 Revenues
Caldwell posted Q1 revenues of $29.3 million (Canadian), an increase of 37.1 percent from $21.4 million, a year ago. “Our first quarter results represent an excellent start to fiscal 2026, with exceptional revenue growth and improved profitability year over year,” said Chris Beck, CEO. “Performance was strong across the business, reflecting increased hiring demand from
CAA Executive Search Recruits CEO for USA Gymnastics
CAA Executive Search has recruited Kyle Albrecht as the new CEO of USA Gymnastics. In collaboration with CAA Executive Search, the group vetted candidates for three months. “Congratulations Kyle Albrecht, being named as the next CEO of USA Gymnastics,” Jason Hanold, president of CAA Executive Search, said in a LinkedIn post. “Thank you for the partnership Kathryn
Arts Consulting Group Recruits COO for the Bruce
Boston-based search firm Arts Consulting Group (ACG) has placed Nathan Smallwood as the new chief operating officer of the Bruce Museum (the Bruce) in Greenwich, Conn. Todd Ahrens and Josyanne Roche, vice presidents at the firm, led the assignment. “Nathan Smallwood’s background and expertise made him an obvious choice for the Bruce,” said Mary-Kate O’Hare, Susan E. Lynch executive
The Energists Appoints Partner
Houston-based The Energists has named Sheharyar Khan as partner. He will work closely with clients across North America, Europe, and the Middle East. “Sheharyar represents exactly the kind of forward-looking leadership our clients expect from us,” said Jon Hill, managing partner. “His analytical discipline, technical fluency, and client-side pragmatism, strengthened by his time at PwC, make him an effective advisor to organizations seeking executives who can
Why Executive Search Firms Remain Essential for High-Stakes Leadership Hires
Executive search firms deliver unique value when filling leadership positions that impact organizational performance, according to a new study from Denver, CO-based TriSearch. Reports find that most qualified executive candidates (85 percent) aren’t actively seeking opportunities, making traditional recruitment methods insufficient. These firms provide access to a network of passive candidates developed through years of relationship
The Modern Board’s Evolution: Why Governance Is Becoming More Human
The role of the board is being redefined by forces that can’t be managed through compliance alone—technology acceleration, rising stakeholder expectations, cultural fragility, and constant reputational exposure. As governance moves closer to the center of strategy and long-term value creation, boards are being called to operate less like auditors and more like leadership partners, bringing
Crist|Kolder Associates Recruits CFO for Marathon Petroleum Corp.
Crist|Kolder Associates has helped to recruit Maria A. Khoury as executive vice president and chief financial officer of NYSE-traded Marathon Petroleum Corp. (MPC). She will succeed John J. Quaid, who will remain with the company for a period of transition. “Maria’s deep financial operations expertise and broad industry experience from 25 years as a global finance business
EQU Advisory Leading Search Assignment for California State University, Chico
Executive search firm EQU Advisors was recently tapped by California State University, Chico (Chico State) to lead in its search for a new dean of the College of Business. Reporting to the provost and vice president of academic affairs, the dean of the College of Business serves as the lead academic and administrative officer for the
Cornerstone International Group Opens New Office in Frankfurt
Cornerstone International Group has opened a new office in Frankfurt and appointed of Florian Kittler as global sector head—hospitality, travel & leisure. “The expansion reflects increasing demand from hospitality, travel, and lifestyle organizations for leadership partners who combine global reach with deep sector expertise, as the industry navigates international growth, digital transformation, and evolving client
What are Boards Doing Differently for Better Executive Appointments in 2026?
Boards are increasingly reshaping how they approach executive appointments—building the governance discipline, assessment rigor, and future-facing criteria needed to make confident leadership decisions in a more volatile and accelerated world. Leadership decisions are moving faster, carrying higher stakes and less room for error, according to a recent report from Signium. “Today, boards are asking whether
Why Speed is Critical in Executive Recruiting
Executive leadership vacancies rarely arrive at a convenient moment—and in a business climate defined by rapid change, shrinking decision windows, and relentless performance demands, the cost of an empty seat compounds quickly. What was once viewed as a manageable transition period can now undermine momentum across strategy, operations, and culture, especially when teams are already
Kingsley Gate Recruits Chief People Officer for The Vitamin Shoppe
Private equity-backed Kingsley Gate has helped to recruit Kate Vukelich as executive vice president and chief people officer of The Vitamin Shoppe. “It was a true pleasure to work with Sharon M. Leite, CEO of The Vitamin Shoppe to place Kate Vukelich as the company’s new chief people officer. “Kate will be an amazing addition to a
Boston Children’s Museum Taps DSG | Koya To Lead CEO Search
DSG | Koya has been selected by Boston Children’s Museum (BCM) to lead in its search for a new president and CEO. Elizabeth Lombard and Angie Sessoms are leading the assignment. The next leader will build upon more than a century of impact, innovation, and joyful learning. This leadership transition comes at a moment of organizational strength. BCM
Wray Executive Search Appoints Managing Partners
Wray Executive Search, a provider of executive search and advisory services in the restaurant, foodservice, retail, and franchise industries, has announced a planned leadership transition designed to support long-term continuity and growth. Current partners Kevin Stockslager and Ray Kelley have been named managing partners, while longtime CEO and managing partner Bob Gershberg will remain involved
Vardis Finds PE CEOs Under Pressure, But Optimistic
The Private Equity CEO Report from Vardis, based on a survey of 1,200 chief executives of PE-backed companies, paints a picture of resilience paired with constraint. Seventy percent of CEOs say company performance is “as expected” or better, yet exit activity remains muted, with 2025 tracking as the slowest year for PE exits since 2017, despite a
Why Executive Hiring in 2026 Must Be More Strategic Than Ever
As the calendar turned to 2026, one question looms large: how will you ensure your next leadership team and your next leadership hire drives strategy, culture, and growth rather than simply filling a gap? With complexity, transformation, and succession pressures mounting, relying on who happens to be looking to join your team is no longer
Academic Search Retained by Henry Ford College to Find Next President
Education-focused executive recruitment firm Academic Search has been tapped by Henry Ford College (HFC) to lead in its search for a new president. Russ Kavalhuna left the school last year to become the president of Western Michigan University. Shirley Robinson Pippins and Richard Cummins are leading the assignment. Candidates will have a career that reflects the following
Brettschneider Executive Search Seeking Executive Director for the Carter Burden Network
New York City-based Brettschneider Executive Search was recently retained by the Carter Burden Network (CBN) to lead in its search for a new executive director. The firm seeks a collaborative, experienced and innovative executive director to advance the organization as it tackles the increasing needs of a growing client population. The executive director will drive
IMSA Search Global Partners Adds New Member Firm in Canada
IMSA Search Global Partners has added Pivotal Integrated HR Solutions as IMSA Canada and CEO Neil Kouba as IMSA Canada managing partner. “Neil and his team are an excellent addition to our worldwide organization,” said Thierry Goder, president of IMSA Search Global Partners. “They are like-minded, successful executive search professionals who will strengthen our presence in
Hunt Scanlon’s Top 10 Recruiting Stories of 2025
In 2025, the recruiting and executive search industry entered a pivotal transformation driven by the rapid integration of AI and data intelligence. As firms navigated uneven hiring demand and ongoing consolidation, recruiters increasingly turned to AI-powered platforms, advanced analytics, and leadership science to deliver sharper insight, faster outcomes, and measurable value for clients. Investor activity
