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Why Most Boards Underperform and Why 2026 is the Year to Fix It
Even the most capable boards can struggle to translate individual expertise into collective performance. If you spend enough time in boardrooms of any flavor, whether public, private, PE-backed, family-owned, or non-profit, you eventually notice a strange phenomenon, explained a recent report from Rob Andrews, founder and CEO of Houston, TX-based search firm Allen Austin. “Everyone is
VC and PE Talent Partners Should Be Pursuing the Same Marketing Leader — Here’s Why
For much of the last decade, talent partners could draw a clean line between marketing leadership profiles in venture-backed and private-equity-backed companies. Venture portfolios hired for invention, narrative, and early demand discovery while private equity portfolios hired for discipline, efficiency, and EBITDA stewardship, according to a recent report from RevelOne’s John Levisay. “That distinction has eroded,”
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.
J.P. Morgan M&A Forecast Points to Continued Momentum
Global M&A deal activity is moving forward with renewed intensity, even as markets absorb inflation, trade friction, and geopolitical instability. J.P. Morgan’s 2025 Global M&A Mid-Year Outlook points to a landscape shaped less by caution and more by creativity. Volume is up, megadeals are back, and cross-border transactions are accelerating. “M&A and capital markets have been
Five Leadership Attributes Essential for 2021 and Beyond
Leadership capabilities for digital and non-digital businesses are converging. As a result, there is considerable commonality around some core capabilities that organizations are seeking in their executives and managers, according to a new report by NGS Global. “The economy is reaching a threshold where the many businesses that are growing rapidly are likely to have
TSI Group Implements Teamscope
Mississauga, ON-headquartered executive search firm TSI Group Inc. has become the first Canadian search firm to adopt Teamscope, a data and talent analytics platform. TSI Group chose Teamscope to enhance its executive search methodology with data-analytics and decision science. “The move is part of a larger strategy to deliver more value to their clients reinforcing
SearchWide Global Retained by Big Sky Chamber of Commerce and Visit Big Sky
The non-profit Big Sky Chamber of Commerce and Visit Big Sky in Montana have retained executive recruitment firm SearchWide Global to find its next president and CEO. Search firm vice president Nicole Newman is leading the assignment. “We are actually mid-way through the search process at this point, finishing up first round of interviews this week with in-person
PFM Executive Search Recruits Chief Information Officer for Smythe LLP
PFM Executive Search has placed Michelle Harrison as the inaugural chief information officer for Smythe LLP, a full-service accounting firm based in Vancouver, British Columbia. As CIO, Ms. Harrison will oversee the firm’s technology and innovation strategy. Smythe said it views technological innovation as a critical element in becoming the leading professional service firm in the marketplace
Odgers Berndtson Appoints IT Services and Telecommunications Practice Leader in U.K.
Odgers Berndtson has appointed Tim Sleep as leader of its IT services and telecommunications practices in the U.K. Never before have the IT services and telecommunications sectors been in so great a demand as it is now, according to Odgers Berndtson. “Both sectors already have large common traits,” the search firm said. “The economic and disruptive
Jobless Claims Fall to Lowest Level Since Onset of Pandemic
The Labor Department reported this morning that 576,000 Americans filed new claims for state unemployment benefits. This is the lowest level for initial claims since March 14, 2020 when it was 256,000. The previous week’s level was revised up by 25,000 from 744,000 to 769,000. Economists surveyed by Bloomberg expected 700,000 filings. Since last February,
The Lapham Group Recruits CEO for IFG Companies
After a national search, executive search firm The Lapham Group has placed Behram Dinshaw as chief executive officer of IFG Companies, a multiline property and casualty insurer. Mr. Dinshaw was most recently executive vice president and president of Global Small Commercial and Middle Market Business Centers at Travelers Insurance Co. Craig Lapham, managing partner and
Lindauer Retained by the United States Marshals Museum
Lindauer has been called in by the United States Marshals Museum in Fort Smith, AR, to lead its search for a foundation president and chief development officer. The assignment is being spearheaded by Libby Roberts, senior vice president, and senior consultant Megan Abbett. “The successful candidate will be a seasoned professional who thrives when faced
Russell Reynolds Associates Appoints Global Aviation, Aerospace and Defense Practice Leader
Russell Reynolds Associates has named Jackie Arends as a consultant and global leader for the firm’s aviation, aerospace and defense practice. Based in Washington, D.C., she works closely with C-suite leaders and board directors at the intersection of politics, government and industry. “In addition to her deep executive search experience, Jackie’s impressive background includes serving as
Bullhorn Names Senior Leadership Appointments
Bullhorn, a provider of software to recruiting firms, has added David Whitley to its senior leadership team as chief technology officer, reporting to Matt Fischer, who has taken on the role of president and chief operating officer. “I am looking forward to working with David as I take on the COO role,” said Mr. Fischer. “David takes
5 Tips for Evaluating, Interviewing & Onboarding in a Virtual World
It has been just over one year since COVID-19 changed how we do business, transplanting us from board rooms to Zoom rooms. While much of the world begins returning to some semblance of pre-pandemic life, the workplace as we knew it may be changed forever. Many employees are choosing to continue working from home while
LPA Search Partners Assists Syniti with Chief Marketing Officer Search
Anna McCormick, co-CEO of LPA Search Partners, recently assisted Syniti, an enterprise data management company, in the recruitment of Kate Reed as its new chief marketing officer. “Kate has a strong reputation for transformational marketing initiatives that stand out and grow demand,” said Kevin Campbell, CEO of Syniti. “Her appointment could not have come at a
Career Platform Glints Receives $22.5 Million in Funding
Investors are pouring money into recruiting solutions businesses. Singapore-based career platform Glints has secured $22.5 million in Series C funding led by Japanese human resources management firm PERSOL Holdings. The funding round is joined by returning investors Monk’s Hill Ventures, Wavemaker Partners, Fresco Capital, Mindworks Ventures, Wavemaker Partners, and other top investors including Binny Bansal
Arts Consulting Group Seeking New Leader for Bennington Museum
Boston-based search firm Arts Consulting Group (ACG) has been enlisted to find the next executive director for the Bennington Museum in Vermont. Wyona Lynch-McWhite, senior vice president, is spearheading the assignment. The Bennington Museum’s executive director must be a broad-thinking, goal- and people-oriented executive who values community engagement and leads with a clear sense of purpose and direction,
Harvey Nash Elects New Chairman
Recruitment firm Harvey Nash Group recently elected Gary Browning as its new chairman. Mr. Browning, who has been a non-executive director for the group for over two years, will be taking over from Mike Branigan who will continue in his role on the board as partner in DBAY Advisors, owners of Harvey Nash Group. “Having chaired Harvey Nash
Randstad US Launches Technology Tools to Safely Return Employees to the Workplace
With more than two-thirds of American workers reporting that they “do not feel completely safe” in their workplace—25 percent say they will look for a new job if their employer fails to implement new long-term protocols—employers are under increasing pressure to ensure the return to the workplace is managed safely. “Workers are keenly attuned to the steps employers
Why Organizations Use Executive Search Firms
For many organizations, finding quality talent can be tough—and finding quality executive talent can be even tougher. While you may have confidence that your company can recruit your next C-suite leader without help from a dedicated search firm, the potential ramifications behind making a poor hire can be disastrous, according to a recent report by TalentRise. “That’s
Russell Reynolds Associates Leads Chief Technology Officer Search for The Rockefeller Foundation
Russell Reynolds Associates has been called in by The Rockefeller Foundation to lead its search for a new chief technology officer. The search firm is seeking candidates with a professional record of accomplishment that reflects significant strategic partnership with and contribution to the business, including demonstrated leadership in large, complex, multi-divisional global settings. Reporting to
Myers McRae Assists Pfeiffer University with Provost Search
After a national search, Macon, GA-based Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting has helped to place Daniel Mynatt as the next provost and vice president of academic affairs for Pfeiffer University in Misenheimer, NC. Kenny Daugherty, president of the search firm, led the assignment. Dr. Mynatt currently serves as vice provost for institutional effectiveness for the University
Collegiate Sports Associates Recruits Athletic Director for the University of Georgia
Raleigh, NC-based Collegiate Sports Associates (CSA) recently placed Josh Brooks as the J. Reid Parker director of athletics at the University of Georgia (UGA). The hire follows the retirement of Greg McGarity, who held the position for 10 years. “From visionary and strategist to contract negotiator, fundraiser and champion for student-athletes—the modern-day athletic director must effectively wear many hats,” said
Global Pandemic Endows Universities With Big Challenges in the Hunt for New Leaders in 2021
Leadership roles in today’s colleges and universities have become increasingly demanding and complex. Senior academic leaders must balance the needs of numerous constituents—needs that require a cross-section of skills far beyond the traditional set of scholarly and research accomplishments. Interviews with a host of recruiters for the sector reveal the special challenges of their work.
Key to Executive Success: Optimizing Integration and Early Engagement
In career transitions, there are clear “milestones that matter,” and none is more important or complex than an executive’s integration into a new company or tackling of a demanding new assignment, according to Crenshaw Associates. “The path to success requires executives to navigate unfamiliar corporate cultures and work with new colleagues,” said the firm’s executive chairman,
Diversified Search Group Tapped by Quinnipiac University to Assist in CIO Search
Diversified Search Group has been selected by Quinnipiac University to lead its search for a new chief information officer. The search firm is seeking an experienced CIO to lead the university in a broad array of technology management initiatives, including oversight of multi-faceted, multi-operational infrastructures and systems. The successful candidate will be a visionary who is
JDG Associates Taps CEO for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification Accreditation Body
After a nationwide search, Rockville, MD-based executive search firm JDG Associates has helped to place Matthew Travis as the first chief executive officer for the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification Accreditation Body (CMMC-AB). Principal Paul Belford led the assignment. In his new role, Mr. Travis oversees the day-to-day development and management of the CMMC-AB to support the goals and objectives
Kevin Chase Executive Search Group Assisting LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert in CEO Search
Los Angeles-based Kevin Chase Executive Search Group has been retained by the LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, which provides a broad range of services to California’s communities in Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley, to lead a national search for a new executive director and chief executive officer. Kevin Chase, managing partner, and Catie DiFelice, senior associate,
C-Suite Pain Points and Opportunities on The Road to Post-Pandemic Recovery
With more states and cities lifting restrictive business measures amid a decline in the number of coronavirus cases, the jobs economy continues to show signs of improvement. Will organizations and top executives be ready to handle a quick bounce back? How effectively organizational leaders rise to the occasion will play a determining role in the structure
Caldwell Posts 39 Percent Second Quarter Revenue Gain
Caldwell has posted fiscal 2021 second quarter revenues of $24.1 million (Canadian), a 39 percent increase from the same period a year ago. Financial results include those of IQTalent Partners, Inc. (IQTP) beginning on the date of acquisition of December 31, 2020. “In our year-end review we talked about our work to transform Caldwell into a
Odgers Berndtson Recruits CEO for the Port of Gulfport
Following a national search, Odgers Berndtson has recruited Jon Nass as the CEO and executive director of the Port of Gulfport. Tim McNamara, a partner and vice chairman of Odgers Berndtson and head of the firm’s transportation and infrastructure practice, led the assignment. “The Mississippi State Port Authority (MSPA) Commission is very pleased to announce we have selected a new
McDermott + Bull Recruits CIO for KeyPoint
Irvine, CA-based search firm McDermott + Bull recently placed Drew Manning as the new chief information officer of KeyPoint Credit Union. The assignment was led by president Brandon Biegenzahn, vice president Michelle Davis, and senior executive recruiter Courtney Dorrel. “Drew is passionate about building alignment between the business units and the technology department,” said Brad Canfield, president and CEO of KeyPoint.
Kennedy Executive Search Appoints Practice Leader
Kennedy Executive Search, a network of independent executive search firms, has named Eric Pringle as practice leader for the industrial segment. In this role, he will structure Kennedy’s collective experience and services in recruitment for leadership roles in the sector across the Americas and Europe. Mr. Pringle is the founder and managing partner of Integrated People Solutions /
DHR International Recruits Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer for Unisys
Chief diversity, equity and inclusion officers have emerged as key leaders during this enormous period of transition for workers and the workplace. With a global workforce shifting in complexity, there is a growing need for diversity experts who can shape the vision, culture and very face of organizations. At issue: Too few women and people
