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CEOs and CHROs: Strategic Alignment or Differing Priorities?
Like the broader business landscape, the roles of the CEO and CHRO have evolved significantly in recent years. CEOs remain focused on driving competitiveness and performance, while CHROs are increasingly prioritizing employee well-being and mental health. But are these visions completely irreconcilable? To answer this question, a recent report from Radar HH, IMD International Search
January Hiring Tops Expectations, But Sharp Revisions Reveal Weakest Growth in Years
Employment rose by 130,000 in January as the U.S. unemployment rate was at 4.3 percent, according to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report. Job gains occurred in healthcare, social assistance, and construction, while federal government and financial activities lost jobs. The number of unemployed people, at 7.4 million, changed little in January. However, the bullish
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.
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
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?
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
The Platform Shift Reshaping Human Capital M&A
Hunt Scanlon Ventures’ 2026 Human Capital Markets Update: Q1 M&A Report points to a market undergoing rapid institutionalization. Human capital M&A is no longer centered around standalone recruiting firms or opportunistic acquisitions. Instead, buyers are consolidating around integrated platforms that combine executive search, leadership advisory, workforce analytics, succession planning, and AI-enabled infrastructure. The shift reflects a broader
WittKieffer Recruits 22nd President for the University of Tulsa
Oak Brook, IL-based WittKieffer has placed Stacy Leeds as the 22nd president of the University of Tulsa (UTulsa). Zachary Smith, Robin Mamlet, and Julia Bradley led the assignment. Ms. Leeds was selected following a competitive and comprehensive national search. Members of the search committee and full board were drawn to her unique portfolio of executive management, philanthropic success and unimpeachable academic credibility. “Stacy
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
TurnkeyZRG Appoints Vice President
TurnkeyZRG has expanded with the addition of Sean Magee as vice president. “College and professional football are being reshaped in real time — by revenue sharing, NIL, the transfer portal, and unprecedented financial and operational complexity,” said Chad Chatlos, managing partner, ZRG Turnkey. “Sean lived inside that disruption as a senior operator. He understands what it
Rethinking the Factors Behind Employee Loyalty and Retention
Two widely repeated assumptions continue to shape discussions around today’s workforce, despite oversimplifying a far more nuanced reality. Claims that employee loyalty has disappeared, or that departures are driven almost entirely by poor management, often overlook the broader mix of organizational, economic, leadership, and career factors influencing retention. While such narratives persist because they are
Anthem Executive Assists the University of West Alabama with Provost Search
Anthem Executive has assisted in the recruitment of Amy H. Jones as provost of the University of West Alabama, the role that oversees all aspects of academics at the institution. “Dr. Jones has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to the mission of UWA,” said Todd G. Fritch, president of the University of West Alabama.
ON Partners Recruits Chief Supply Chain Officer for Atmus Filtration Technologies
ON Partners has helped to recruited Kevin Carpenter as senior vice president and chief supply chain officer of NYSE-traded Atmus Filtration Technologies Inc. in Nashville, TN. Partner Heidi Hoffman led the assignment. “Kevin is a proven operations leader with a strong track record of building resilient, customer focused supply chains at scale,” said Steph Disher, president and
ZRG Partners Acquires Sterling Martin Associates
ZRG Partners has acquired Sterling Martin Associates, a Washington, D.C.–based executive search firm specializing in professional associations, trade organizations, and mission‑driven non-profit organizations. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Larry Hartmann, CEO of ZRG, said the acquisition reflects ZRG’s disciplined approach to growth. “This is not about scale for scale’s sake,” he explained.
Reshaping the Talent Playbook in the Age of AI
In the age of AI, rapid technological advancements are revolutionizing the way organizations are approaching talent management. Heightened levels of automation are already reshaping recruitment, assessment, and team building while improving workforce optimization – all while balancing the critical need for ethical, human-centric decision-making. Hunt Scanlon Media is convening over 250 chief talent officers, CHROs,
The Importance of A-Level Talent
Attracting and retaining top performing executives is the true lifeblood of successful organizations. Yet identifying and attracting them can be a challenging endeavor. Top performers, in leadership roles, will deliver about 50 percent more than the average and will improve their organization’s competitive position. But according to McKinsey & Company, 82 percent of Fortune 500
Caldwell Assists Chargebee in the Recruitment of New Chief Marketing Officer
Mercedes Chatfield-Taylor, managing partner of the private equity and venture capital practice at Caldwell, recently placed Sanjay Manchanda as the new chief marketing officer of Chargebee. Mr. Manchanda has helped rapidly scale new product businesses, contributed to building a multi-billion-dollar SaaS business and delivered go-to-market and demand gen strategies for developed and emerging markets at Box
True Search Recruits New CFO for PE-Backed MikMak
Chief financial officers continue to be in high demand. Finding them is keeping many of the nation’s top recruitment operations busier than ever. In recent months, search firms of all varieties have placed CFOs at various companies, especially private equity-backed outfits. To that end, Haddonfield, NJ-based executive recruitment firm True Search recently placed Jose Rodriguez as the
Klein Hersh Appoints Managing Partner, Sees Jump in Search Activity
Horsham, PA-based Klein Hersh International, an executive search firm focused on the life sciences and healthcare industries, has appointed Jared Kaleck to managing partner. “The promotion reflects Klein Hersh’s ongoing evolution and innovation in life sciences executive search,” the search firm said. It also reflects an effort to oversee and manage growth at the firm: Klein Hersh completed
Executive Search Enters a Pivotal Moment
Most search firms don’t innovate because they are led by people who aren’t very innovative, according to Mike Myatt, founder and chairman of N2Growth. Search firms are most often led by longtime recruiters who have grown up on the inside – “industry insiders refer to this as a safe pair of hands,” he said. Most search
Hanold Associates Recruits SVP of Total Rewards for The New York Times
Chicago-based Hanold Associates HR & Diversity Executive Search has assisted in the placement of Cassandra Lammers as senior vice president, total rewards for The New York Times. Partners Kile Hanold and Mayank Parikh spearheaded the assignment for the search firm. “As we continue to promote fairness and equality at The Times, how we reward our employees —
The McCormick Group Recruits SVP of Government Affairs at Global Medical Response
The public sector is in the midst of major transformation. It faces an array of challenges that range from shifting public expectations to budgetary pressures and a growing demand for operational efficiency. To successfully navigate these issues, government organizations need leaders who are focused, tenacious and adaptable, with the capacity to deal with significant scale,
Boyden Assists TransLink in the Recruitment of a New CEO
Boyden recently assisted in the recruitment of Kevin Quinn as the new chief executive officer of TransLink, the regional transportation authority for Metro Vancouver. The TransLink board of directors made the appointment following a competitive international candidate search and thorough review process. He takes on the role effective July 19. The assignment was co-led by managing partners
IMD International Search Group Appoints President; New Board Members Elected
Global executive search consortium IMD International Search Group has elected Alder Koten’s Jose Ruiz as its new president. Matthias Mohr of Dr. Heimeier & Partner, Germany recently completed his term as president. In addition, Stefan Danis (Mandrake, Canada), Anita Otterheim (Lisberg, Sweden), Daniel Lewczuk (Executive Network, Poland), and Rodolfo Sommer (Sommer Group, Chile) completed their terms as board
Lack of Interview Skills Fueling Post-Pandemic Hiring Crunch
Executive interviewing skills is arguably one of the most critical skills needed to secure the most appropriate sales and management talent for achieving revenue goals. Research continues to reveal the lack of ongoing interview training being introduced by human resource teams, as well as executive leadership to ensure hiring managers are trained and aware of
Alder Koten Assists Alsea in CEO Search
Executive search and leadership consulting firm Alder Koten has assisted in the placement Fernando Gonzalez as CEO of Mexican restaurant operator Alsea. He succeeds Alberto Torrado, who will begin training him next month to oversee its various brands, including Starbucks, Domino’s Pizza and Burger King. “Fernando’s track record and extensive knowledge and global experience in the retail sector
Work&Partners Retained by Toppan Merrill for CFO Search
New York-based Work&Partners LLC has been retained to recruit a chief financial officer for Toppan Merrill. Founder and president Alan Work is leading the assignment. “We are seeking a dynamic financial leader with successful experience at the intersection of digital content, SaaS and fintech that can drive growth and transformation across their business platforms,” said Mr. Work.
Dare to Care Food Bank Taps BoardWalk Consulting to Assist CEO Search
Executive recruitment firm BoardWalk Consulting has been selected to find the next president and chief executive officer of the Dare to Care Food Bank in Louisville, KY. John Sparrow, senior director, and Paula Nicholas, senior research associate, are spearheading the assignment. “For more than 50 years, the Dare to Care Food Bank has helped neighbors
IMSA Search Expands Into the U.K.
Executive search network IMSA Search Global Partners expanded into the U.K. with the addition of Murray Price Executive Search. Graham Murray and Phillip Price join IMSA as U.K. managing partners. “The U.K. offers a major opportunity for expansion in talent acquisition, as companies across the world pivot to their post-pandemic plans,” said Monika Ciesielska, president of IMSA Search Global
Jobless Claims Fall for Fourth Straight Week
The Labor Department reported that 406,000 Americans filed new claims for state unemployment benefits. Economists surveyed by Dow Jones expected 425,000 new jobless claims. This is the lowest level for initial claims since March 14, 2020 when it was 256,000. The 4-week moving average was 458,750, a decrease of 46,000 from the previous week’s unrevised
Mastering the Online Interview
Global executive search firm Kincannon & Reed has been working remotely for more than 35 years facilitating video interviews long before it became a necessity. The firm recently shared with Hunt Scanlon Media some best practices to help clients and candidates prepare to engage remotely, present their best, and ultimately determine if this is someone you
Coulter Partners Recruits CEO for Azitra
Life sciences search specialist Coulter Partners has placed Francisco Salva as president and CEO of Azitra Inc. in Branford, CT. He replaces Rick Andrews who is retiring. Client partner Chris Palatucci led the assignment. “We are excited to bring in Francisco’s remarkable experience and leadership,” said Travis Whitfill, co-founder, executive director of advanced technology and chair, scientific
Gold Hill Associates Selected by Blue Mountain Community College to Find New President
Gold Hill Associates, which specializes in executive searches for community colleges, has been chosen to find a new president for Blue Mountain Community College (BMCC) in Pendleton, OR. Leading the assignment is the search firm’s president and chief executive officer, Preston Pulliams. The Blue Mountain Community College Board of Education wants a proven leader with
IIC Partners Adds Hunters of Talent
IIC Partners Executive Search Worldwide has added Hunters of Talent in Brazil as its newest member firm. “We at Hunters of Talent are extremely excited to belong to IIC Partners,” said Antonieta Treviño, founder and CEO. “We know that it is a great commitment, and we are sure that we will be a worthy representation of our country. This partnership strengthens our
For Executive Recruiters, a New Way Forward
As we entered 2021, many in the executive search industry were still trying to figure out how to “go back” and “get back to normal.” As the industry became more clear-eyed that a backward focus is rarely a sound path to the future, things began to change, according to Mike Myatt, founder and chairman of N2Growth.
Building a Comprehensive Diversity Recruiting Strategy
Building an effective diversity recruiting strategy requires commitment, a sound strategy, and most importantly, perseverance. Developing a diversity recruiting strategy that is sustainable is about more than which job boards you subscribe to or the candidate discovery tools you use. “At the executive level, a diversity referral program and diverse interview teams can be effective,
Spencer Stuart Assists Vanderbilt University in Provost Search
Following an extensive nationwide search, Spencer Stuart has assisted Vanderbilt University in the recruitment of C. Cybele Raver as its new provost and vice chancellor of academic affairs. She succeeds Susan R. Wente, who will depart Vanderbilt June 30 to become president of Wake Forest University. “Professor Cybele Raver is one of the most accomplished academic leaders
The Christopher Group Leads Top HR Search for Nordson Corp.
Executive recruiters are in hot pursuit of chief human resource officers and other senior-level HR leaders across the nation. Why such pent-up demand for top flight HR experts? Corporate leaders want HR leaders who are sophisticated, proactive and strategic-minded, with strong business savvy to drive their people capabilities like they would a P&L, according to
Novare Executive Search Launches Digital Platform for Gig Economy
Today, a growing number of workers are opting for alternative employment models over traditional, full-time, permanent roles. Part-time, contingent, contract, temporary, freelance, independent contractor, on-demand online and platform working – call it what you will, they are all on the rise. Businesses and those who work for them want choice, flexibility and alternative ways of working
LLR Partners Makes Equity Investment in True
LLR Partners, a private equity firm based in Philadelphia, has made an investment in Haddonfield, NJ-based True, a global executive talent management platform. The new partnership is aimed at developing and expanding innovation within the talent space. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. True surpassed $100 million in revenues in 2019 and added 146
Hanold Associates Assists American Airlines in the Recruitment of Chief People Officer
Chicago-based Hanold Associates HR & Diversity Executive Search has assisted in the placement of Mecole “Cole” Brown as the new chief people officer of American Airlines. The mandate was led by Jason Hanold, CEO and managing partner, and Keri Gavin, partner and global D&I practice sector leader. She will report to Elise Eberwein, executive vice president of
Egon Zehnder Retained by American Equity Investment Life Holding Co. to Lead CFO Search
Immediate concerns around cash flow, liquidity and the bottom line are taking precedence at many companies due to continued fallout from the pandemic. That means seasoned chief financial officer talent is in high demand. American Equity Investment Life Holding Co. recently retained Egon Zehnder to lead its search for a new chief financial officer. American Equity Investment Life,
Greenwood /Asher & Associates Seeking Provost for University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
Miramar Beach, FL-based executive recruitment firm Greenwood /Asher & Associates has been enlisted to find a provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs for the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay (UW-Green Bay). Leading the assignment are Jan Greenwood, founder, and Shelley Feather, library practice leader and senior executive search consultant. “Building on the successes of recent years, including six
Tier One Executive Search Joins TRANSEARCH International
As a result of a deal finalized this week, Detroit based Tier One Executive Search has become a part of TRANSEARCH International. “We had been approached by several firms over the years and none of them felt right at the time” said Mark Thibodeau, senior partner of Tier One. “In a couple of early cases,
How Cannabis Executives Can Lead Companies for the Long Haul
Marijuana has gained widespread acceptance in recent years. The legalization of the plant in many countries has led to a boom in the cannabis industry. Consumer spending on cannabis has now topped $10 billion in the U.S. alone, and worldwide sales are expected to top $100 billion before the end of the decade. The United
WittKieffer Selected by Colorado State University to Lead VP of Diversity & Inclusion Search
WittKieffer has been enlisted to find a vice president for diversity and inclusion (VPDI) for Colorado State University (CSU) in Fort Collins, CO. Spearheading the assignment are Charlene Aguilar, consultant; Christine Pendleton, senior associate; and Bree Liddell, associate. “The vice president for diversity and inclusion will join CSU amidst a time of increasing opportunity and transformative
