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Executive Search in 2026: Why Human Judgment Still Matters
As AI “agentification” pushes more work into software, the executive search industry is being forced to justify its value beyond simply filling roles. The case for its future rests on something algorithms and internal networks often struggle to protect: independent judgment in high-stakes hiring—especially when speed, alignment, and culture become so dominant that they quietly
WittKieffer Acquires Assets of Ross & Company
Oak Brook, IL-based WittKieffer has acquired the assets of Ross & Company. Financial terms of deal were not disclosed. Founder Larry Ross will join WittKieffer as senior partner and lead partner for private equity. “This combination accelerates WittKieffer’s leadership in building boards and executive teams for healthcare and life sciences investors and their portfolio companies,” the firm said.
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.
Who Rises to Lead in Private Equity?
Private equity leaders are defined by their ability to drive growth, manage complexity, and deliver results in high-pressure environments. They blend financial insight with strategic leadership, aligning teams and investors around a shared vision. In today’s market, adaptability and execution are key to standing out. Hogan Assessments, a global provider of personality assessment and leadership
Win the War of Talent with Job Security Over Pay
Amid fast-paced innovation and global competitiveness, employees are facing more professional choices than ever. Attracting talented people to grow businesses remains extremely difficult for employers. Holding on to people proves to be an increasing challenge for organizations worldwide as well. Compensation continues to be regarded as very important, but it is also clear that if
National Restaurant Association Turns to Spencer Stuart to Find CEO
After suffering a massive hit during the Great Recession, employment and hiring within the travel, restaurant, hotel and hospitality industry continue to rebound. Last year, according to one set of survey metrics, the industry added more than 527,000 jobs (2.6 million since 2004). Overall, the industry is estimated to generate an economic impact of $6.5
Slone Partners Recruits Chief Medical Officer for Epic Sciences
Executive search firm Slone Partners has placed Richard Wenstrup as the chief medical officer of Epic Sciences. “Dr. Wenstrup’s decades-long experience in oncology leadership and clinical work will add substantial value to Epic Sciences in developing exciting new diagnostic tests that advance the mission of precision medicine,” said Tara Kochis-Stach, president of Slone Partners. In his new role,
Odgers Berndtson Adds to Boston Team
Building on a period of unprecedented expansion, global search firm Odgers Berndtson has brought in Richard Pooley as a partner in its U.S. professional services, technology and CFO practices. He will be based in the firm’s Boston office. “We’re delighted to welcome Richard to the team,” said Steve Potter, CEO of Odgers Berndtson U.S. “He has more than
IMD International Search Announces New Board
Global executive search consortium IMD International Search Group has elected a new board member and prolonged the mandate of two others at its annual general assembly in Paris. Simona Cremascoli, partner at Milan-based member firm Carter & Benson, joins the IMD board as director in charge of internal communication. “I am very satisfied with the long-lasting international
Succession Plans Lacking in the C-Suite
Companies everywhere are concerned that when a CEO leaves there be candidates who can step in to lead the company. The plans for all those other seats around the executive table, however, are a little murky. Many organizations simply don’t have internal candidates who can step in to be chief financial officers, chief marketing officers
Whitman College Picks Spelman Johnson to Find Athletics Leader
Executive recruitment firm Spelman Johnson has been enlisted by Whitman College in Walla Walla, WA to find a new director of athletics and chair of sports studies, recreation and athletics. Dell D. Robinson, search associate with the firm’s athletic practice, and Anne-Marie Kenney, senior coordinator of search services, are leading the assignment. The director of athletics
Kincannon & Reed Recruits CTO for Calyxt
Waynesboro, VA-based executive search firm Kincannon & Reed has recruited Travis Frey as the new chief technology officer of Calyxt, a healthy food ingredient company in Roseville, MN. Dr. Frey brings extensive knowledge in plant biology and biotechnology to a newly created position at the company. As CTO, he will be responsible for the research and development
La Fosse Associates Launches Pro Bono Practice
U.K.-headquartered executive search firm La Fosse Associates has launched a new pro bono practice to serve charities and not-for-profit organizations. The practice will place cybersecurity professionals into advisory positions at charities and non-profits that need advice and support, for free. “Care is a founding principle of La Fosse, which includes caring for others, not just our clients
Why It Can be Lonely at the Top in Executive Search
Layers of complexity are baked into the process of every search for a new executive. From competing agendas, to strong personalities, to internal dynamics – no search is simple. “Specializing in executive search within the human capital industry means being the ultimate in relationship and trust building,” said Lisa Maxwell, founder and managing partner of
Witt/Kieffer Assists Syracuse University in Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer Search
With the assistance of recruitment firm Witt/Kieffer, Syracuse University has chosen Keith A. Alford to be the school’s first chief diversity and inclusion officer. Consultant Charlene Aguilar and associate Christine Pendleton led the assignment for the firm. Nearly 200 candidates expressed interest in the position, but the committee ultimately recommended the person who had been serving in an interim
RM Nephew and Associates Places New CFO for InVivo Therapeutics
Executive recruitment firm RM Nephew and Associates has helped to place the new chief financial officer and treasurer for InVivo Therapeutics Holdings Corp., a Cambridge, MA-based research and clinical-stage biomaterials and biotechnology company. Richard Christopher comes to the role from iCAD Inc. Leading the assignment was search firm partner Denise C. Amari. “Rich’s more than
humanpredictions Secures $1.16 Million in Funding
humanpredictions, a machine learning technology company, has received a $1.16 million funding round led by Network Ventures with additional investment from Hyde Park Angels, SaaS Ventures and M25. The new capital is targeted to help humanpredictions further grow and invest in its team of engineers and data scientists. “Because of the competitive nature of tech,
Direct Recruiters Integrates with Sister Company Direct Consulting Associates
Solon, OH-based Direct Recruiters Inc. (DRI), an executive recruitment firm, has announced an integration with its sister company, Direct Consulting Associates. The integration is designed to provide project-based, professional staffing and consulting support to Direct Recruiters’ client base. Direct Consulting Associates currently provides recruiting services to the hospital IT and general IT space. Moving forward, the
5 Questions Candidates Should Ask During the Search Process
There has been much discussion about the key questions to be addressed a search for a new CEO, but what about from the candidates’ side and the questions they should ask during the executive search process. “If you find yourself in front of a search committee, what are the key questions you want to be
Hanold Associates Finds Head of Diversity for Raymond James Financial
To meet the needs of an increasingly diverse society, many organizations have developed executive positions to guide their diversity agendas. Chief diversity officers have responsibility for guiding efforts to conceptualize, define, assess, nurture and cultivate diversity. Duties may include affirmative action and equal employment opportunity, or the constituent needs of minorities, women and other social
Polachi Finds Chief Revenue Officer for Manufacturing Software Company
The role of chief revenue officer has changed dramatically over the last several years. CROs are quickly becoming mission-critical innovators for companies that look to dominate a market first and fastest, according to recruiters. The demand for these financial leaders is growing and executive search firms have been busy filling these roles. Recently, Boston-headquartered executive
Carmichael Fisher Expands in the U.S.
London-based executive search firm Carmichael Fisher has expanded its operations in the U.S. with the addition of recruiting veteran Samantha Wallace as its global head of practice. She will lead the firm’s technology team in Los Angeles. “Sam’s appointment comes at a time of accelerated growth both for the technology division and for the firm itself,” said Justin Hobday, CEO
Hightech Partners Strengthens Search Team
Digital-focused executive search firm Hightech Partners (HTP) has announced that Elly de Vrijer, founder and owner of Dutch executive search firm Hill Consulting, will be joining HTP as a partner while still operating her own firm. This collaboration, said HTP, will help the firm strengthen its international reach. “Hightech Partners is delighted about the cooperation with Elly,”
Bank of England Picks Sapphire Partners to Lead Search for Governor
The U.K. government has hired Sapphire Partners, a London-based executive search firm, to help find a new governor for the Bank of England. The recruitment firm, which focuses on finding diverse talent, is the first agency ever hired to find someone for the governor role. Enlisting Sapphire Partners raises the likelihood that that the U.K.
Harris Rand Lusk Tapped to Find New CEO for Stupid Cancer
Stupid Cancer, a non-profit that serves young adults with cancer, has retained New York City-based executive search firm Harris Rand Lusk to lead its search for a new CEO. Managing partner and CEO Jack Lusk is leading the assignment, along with Elly Kirschner, director of healthcare and advocacy. Matthew Zachary, the cancer group’s founder and CEO
Chartwell Partners Recruits CFO for 8th Avenue Food & Provisions
Executive search firm Chartwell Partners has placed Doug Kooren as the new CFO of 8th Avenue Food & Provisions. Partners Mike Magurany and Scott Cuellar conducted the assignment. Mr. Kooren brings 25 years of experience in finance, accounting, audit, sales, marketing, M&A and business integration. Most recently, he was senior vice president and chief financial
Crenshaw Associates Names Chief Commercial Officer
Executive search firms continue to look for more ways to drive growth — and manage it. To that end, New York City-based recruiting firm Crenshaw Associates has expanded with the addition of Margaret Gramann as chief commercial officer. Her addition will accelerate and support continued growth with technology-enabled capabilities and new service offerings targeted to leading public, private
Friisberg & Partners Adds New Member Firm in Ireland
Friisberg & Partners International has added Dublin-based executive search firm Vertex Headhunting as its newest member firm. Shane Collins and Julian Chambers founded the firm last year to find senior executives for Irish companies. Vertex will be rebranding to Friisberg & Partners International in the coming months. The firm is looking to reinforce to clients and its markets
Hanold Associates Recruits Head of Diversity & Inclusion for Raymond James
Evanston, IL, May 14, 2019 – Hanold Associates has recruited Head of Diversity & Inclusion for Raymond James. Pedro Suriel will be based in St Petersburg, Florida. Keri Gavin and Ashley Schiele led the search. Pedro Suriel joins Raymond James from Cook Ross where he worked as the Managing Director of Client Services. At Raymond James, reporting to the Vice President
Technology and the Workplace: Some New Perspectives
As technology’s impact grows, employers and workers alike see the potential for improving work and the workplace, this according to a new study by Randstad Sourceright. But many also worry that technological advances could cost people their livelihoods. Eighty-one percent of employers said that are excited about the opportunities that artificial intelligence will present, said
Chrisman & Company Recruits CEO for Western Bankers Association
Chrisman & Company, a Los Angeles-based executive search firm specializing in the financial services industry, has recruited Stephen G. Andrews as the new president and CEO Western Bankers Association (WBA). Past CEO Simone Lagomarsino left the company at the end of 2018. Managing partner Michele Gil and founding partner Timothy Chrisman are leading the assignment for
Pearson Partners Seeks Chief Innovation Officer for Dallas Area Rapid Transit
Dallas-headquartered executive search firm Pearson Partners International has been selected by Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) to lead in its search for a new chief innovation officer. Vice president Lisa Thompson is leading the assignment for this new position within the organization. The chief innovation officer has accountability for product management, business strategy and serving as
H.I. Executive Consulting Forms Partnership with Teamscope
Global search firm H.I. Executive Consulting (HIEC) has formed a strategic partnership with Teamscope, an AI-driven talent analytics platform designed to help companies build high-performing leadership teams. The partnership gives HIEC an innovative tool to deliver more data-driven hiring results for its corporate and private equity clients, informing the way companies identify the right leaders, reducing unconscious
Bullhorn Enhances Leadership Team
Bullhorn Inc., which provides cloud-based customer relationship management and operations solutions for the staffing industry, has continued the enhancement of its enterprise leadership team with the promotions of Gretchen Keefner, Shaun Weise, Gregory LaGarde and Tim O’Brien. “Their deep industry expertise and exemplary leadership will further strengthen the business value that Bullhorn delivers to its
Recruiting Sector Jumps 13.9 Percent, Driven by Tightening Talent Markets
A constricting labor market with low unemployment means companies are struggling to find qualified talent. When the right people are found, the costs associated with hiring them are rising, making a lengthy onboarding process now the rule, not the exception. All of it is translating into big business for the nation’s Top 50 executive search
