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Why Executive Hiring Is Shifting to Skills-First Leadership
For decades, executive hiring was guided by a familiar formula. Boards and CEOs focused largely on job titles, employer pedigrees, and years in senior roles when evaluating candidates. A polished résumé was commonly treated as a dependable signal of future performance. Today, that assumption is increasingly questioned, according to a new report from the International Executive Search
Cook Silverman Search Tapped by JVS for Chief Financial and Operating Officer
Greenbrae, CA-based Cook Silverman Search was recently selected by Jewish Vocational & Career Counseling Service (JVS) to lead in its search for a chief financial and operating officer (CFOO). This executive will be responsible for overseeing the operational strategy of the organization with a focus on scalability, efficiency, and financial leadership in support of JVS’s mission
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.
The Data Migration Paralysis Problem: Why Firms Stay on Old Platforms Too Long
Technology has become a defining competitive advantage for executive search firms, yet many organizations continue to rely on aging platforms that no longer innovate. While artificial intelligence, automation, and data-driven workflows are reshaping the industry, the hesitation to replace legacy systems often leaves firms struggling with inefficiencies that quietly accumulate over time. The greatest obstacle
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?
Recruiterflow Offers Four-Step Playbook for Building an AI-Native Search Firm
Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how executive search firms identify talent, manage information, engage candidates, and serve clients. But adopting an AI-powered platform alone does not make a recruiting organization AI-native. The larger challenge is integrating technology across the search lifecycle in ways that improve decision-making, strengthen execution, and allow consultants to devote more attention
Kirk Palmer Associates Recruits Chief Merchandising Officer for Belk
Retail-focused executive search firm Kirk Palmer Associates has helped to recruit Molly Taylor as chief merchandising officer at retailer Belk, where she will lead merchandising strategy and vision across all product categories. Melissa Sussberg and Alexa Liebman led the assignment. Ms. Taylor is a merchandising executive with over 30 years of experience connecting topline vision to bottom-line performance
The Forces Reshaping Executive Search
As organizations face accelerating business transformation, leadership succession, and rapid advances in artificial intelligence, the demands placed on executive search firms continue to evolve. Clients are looking for more than candidate identification—they increasingly expect strategic guidance, deeper market intelligence, and advisors capable of helping them navigate an increasingly complex leadership landscape. Those themes emerged consistently
Bryant Group Fills Senior Position for the University of Washington
Dallas-based executive search and talent development firm Bryant Group has assisted in the recruitment of Justin Michalka as vice president for university development at the University of Washington (UW). The search was led by firm president Chris Bingley. “I’m delighted to welcome Justin to the University of Washington,” said Mary Gresch, senior vice president for university advancement. “He is a
SPMB Expands Financial Officer and Private Equity Practices
SPMB Executive Search has appointed Christy Mihos as a partner in the firm’s financial officer and private equity practices. “Christy is one of the most accomplished CFO search practitioners in the market, and we are thrilled to welcome him to SPMB,” said Dave Mullarkey, managing partner at SPMB. “His track record of advising PE firms and technology companies on
Executive Talent Market Faces New Pressures as AI and Private Equity Reshape Leadership Demand
The executive talent market continues to tighten as private investment accelerates, experienced leaders retire, and organizations compete for executives capable of driving growth and transformation. At the same time, artificial intelligence is changing the capabilities companies expect from senior leaders, while consulting and private equity firms rethink how they build leadership teams and evaluate potential.
Carpenter Legal Search Recruits General Counsel for Park Corporation
Legal recruiting remains an active area for executive search firms as corporations, law firms, government agencies, and other organizations compete for experienced legal talent. Employment of lawyers is projected to grow four percent from 2024 to 2034, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with approximately 31,500 openings expected each year as employers add
Signium Opens New Office in Hamburg, Germany
Executive search consortium Signium has opened a new office in Hamburg, Germany. The new office is led by Moritz Drerup, managing partner, who joined Signium with more than a decade of executive search experience and a highly focused practice in technology and AI leadership. The Hamburg office represents a natural evolution for Mr. Drerup’s established executive search practice, combining his specialist expertise with the reach,
Executive Search Strategies for Leadership Success
As organizations navigate rapid change, leadership decisions have become increasingly consequential, placing greater pressure on executive search firms to identify candidates who can deliver both immediate impact and long-term value. Success at the highest levels depends on far more than filling a vacancy—it requires a disciplined search strategy that combines market intelligence, rigorous assessment, and
Leverage AI in Your Job Search: When to Use It and When Not To
Artificial intelligence has been changing the way people search for jobs. From optimizing resumes to preparing for interviews, AI has become a valuable resource for candidates looking to streamline the process. The key is knowing how to use it effectively, according to a recent report from New York City headquartered executive search firm Solomon Page. “AI
The Christopher Group Selected by Penn Highlands Healthcare for CHRO Search
The Christopher Group (TCG), a boutique HR executive search and business solutions recruiting firm, has been retained by Penn Highlands Healthcare to lead in its search for a new chief human resources officer. Managing partner, Molly Mangan, and partner, Carrie Longmire, are leading the assignment. “The chief human resources officer will play an important role in helping Penn Highlands
Where AI Belongs in Executive Search—and Where It Doesn’t
Artificial intelligence is reshaping every aspect of the executive search profession, creating new opportunities to improve efficiency while raising important questions about where technology should—and should not—play a role in the hiring process. As firms continue to integrate AI into their workflows, the focus is increasingly shifting from whether to adopt these tools to how
Isaacson, Miller Leading President Search for Virginia Tech
Boston-based Isaacson, Miller has been selected by Virginia Tech to lead in its search for a new president. Current president Tim Sands announced his resignation in April. Greg Esposito and Julie Filizetti are leading this search with Kristen Andersen, Raul Bernal, Victoria Castillo, and Gabrielle Nayar. The school seeks a visionary and dynamic leader to serve as its
Parker Remick Appoints Partner of Firm Operations
Seattle, WA-based Parker Remick recently named Jena Gibson as partner of firm operations. This is part of the executive search firm’s expansion of operational infrastructure and AI-enabled delivery capabilities. The firm noted that all in response to rising demand for senior technology and AI leadership. Ms. Gibson joins Parker Remick with more than 15 years
Building an Employer Brand That Attracts Top Executive Talent
In today’s competitive business environment, where organizations are vying for top talent, a strong employer brand has become an essential strategic advantage. It plays a critical role in attracting and retaining high-quality candidates while also contributing to an organization’s overall success. A recent report from the International Executive Search Federation (IESF) delves into the importance of a
Krauthamer & Associates Assists the Dallas Area Rapid Transit with CEO Search
Krauthamer & Associates (K&A) has assisted in the recruitment of Nathaniel Ford as president and CEO of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART). “Mr. Ford brings decades of executive leadership in public transportation, a proven record of organizational transformation, and a deep understanding that transit is about much more than buses and trains,” said DART board chair
Slone Partners Makes Senior Appointments
Life sciences-focused search firm Slone Partners has named Sona Stroud and Kim Wilson as senior partners. Ms. Stroud has been promoted to the position following nearly 15 years with the firm, while Ms. Wilson returns to the organization, further strengthening its leadership team with nearly 17 years of experience with the firm. “Few things are more rewarding than recognizing exceptional leaders
The Evolution of Tech Leadership in Europe: 40 Years of Transformation
As technology continues to reshape every sector of the economy, executive search firms are seeing a fundamental shift in the profile of leaders organizations need to remain competitive. Companies are no longer seeking executives with deep technical expertise alone—they are prioritizing transformational leaders who can navigate disruption, lead enterprise-wide change, and align emerging technologies with
Changing the DNA of Growth-Stage Recruiting
As growth-stage companies accelerate expansion under private equity ownership or new investment, leadership teams are placing greater emphasis on the organizational structures that support long-term value creation. While executive search has traditionally focused on identifying transformative leaders, many organizations are also rethinking where the talent acquisition function belongs within the enterprise to ensure hiring strategy
NU Advisory Partners Fills Board Position for Banesco USA
NU Advisory Partners has assisted in the recruitment of Teresa Stinson to the Banesco USA board. Nada Usina, CEO and co-founder, led the search along with Mar Hernandez, partner and co-founder. “Congratulations Teresa Stinson on joining Banesco USA as board director,” NU Advisory Partners said in a LinkedIn post. “We look forward to seeing your governance
Why Natural Language Search Is the Biggest Shift in Executive Search Since the Database
Executive search has always been a relationship business. Consultants describe talent in rich, layered terms, leaders who have scaled a commercial function through a turnaround, managed a $200 million P&L across two geographies, navigated a public board through a CEO transition. But the systems they rely on to find those leaders have never understood a
TM² Executive Search Assists Fort Valley State University with CHRO Search
TM² Executive Search (TM²) has assisted in the recruitment of Sean Lyn as the new chief human resources officer of Fort Valley State University (FVSU). President Amanda Washington Lockett and associate principals Jessica Horton and Ndeh Anyu led the assignment. Mr. Lyn brings more than a decade of progressive human resources leadership experience in higher education. Before joining Fort Valley State University,
Bespoke Partners Opens New Office in Boston
Bespoke Partners has opened a new office in Boston to accommodate the firm’s growing local team and strengthen its presence in a key market for private equity firms and their portfolio companies. The new office in Boston places Bespoke in proximity to leading software and SaaS clients in healthcare tech, cybersecurity, FinTech, MarTech and Adtech, GovTech and many more sectors. “Boston
The Questions to Ask an Executive Search Firm (That Most Don’t)
Browse a handful of executive search firm websites and they quickly begin to look alike. Every firm makes the same promises about senior expertise and deep networks, a new report from PierceGray. “They all claim to have a proven process and strong track record,” the study said. “There’s just one thing missing: the information you
The Christopher Group Retained by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education for CHRO Search
The Christopher Group (TCG), a boutique HR executive search and business solutions recruiting firm, has been selected by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) to lead in its search for a chief human resources officer. Managing partner, Pam Noble, and Partner Jeff Wilbanks are leading the assignment. “The ACGME plays a vital role in shaping the future of
Human Capital as a Strategic Asset: Unlocking High-Performance Leadership in the C-Suite
In today’s rapidly evolving business environment, human capital has become a true strategic asset. Organizations are realizing that successful leadership requires more than technical expertise — it demands a blend of measurable competencies and intangible qualities like emotional intelligence, adaptability, and cultural alignment. High-performance leadership is now defined by the ability to drive innovation, inspire
Global Demand Booms for Insurance Executives
Major global companies in technology, digital and financial sectors are seeking a record number of insurance leaders with the combination of both digital and industry or “domain” experience, report executive recruiters familiar with the space. Companies looking for these C-suite executives require both insurance expertise and high levels of “digital proficiency,” they say – a
Howe-Lewis International Seeks CEO for National Trust for Historic Preservation
New York City-based search firm Howe-Lewis International has been selected by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in Washington, D.C., to lead its search for a new CEO. Stephanie Meeks, who led the non-profit organization for more than eight years, announced this summer that she would be stepping down from the role at the end of the year. Howe-Lewis,
Hanold Associates Seeks VP of Talent Acquisition
Talent acquisition has always been an important part of the hiring strategies and recruitment practices for any organization. But in the last few years, it’s become more critical than ever. Chicago-based Hanold Associates has recently been selected by US Foods to lead its search for a new vice president of talent acquisition. Partners Katie Wolf and Ashley Schiele
Amrop Adds New Interim Services to U.K. Office
Amrop, a partnership of recruiting firms operating from 75 offices in 48 countries throughout Asia, EMEA and the Americas, remains in growth mode with the addition Matrix Interim to Amrop UK. This “is move is in line with the group’s growth and diversification strategy, revitalizing the offer with dynamic new firms in key markets and reinforcing its
Finding a Better Path to a Diverse Workplace
A vast industry revolving around corporate diversity has developed in recent years. A new wave of research, in fact, shows that diversity is a proven driver for improving profit margins. Although there’s a financial incentive to boost diversity, and a willingness to invest in it, there’s still room for everyone to do much better, in
Preston & Partners Finds New CEO for Kirkland’s
Executive search firm Preston & Partners has placed Steve Woodward as CEO of home décor retailer Kirkland’s Inc. W. Michael Madden resigned from the company’s top role in April. Managing partner Elaine Erickson led the assignment. Mr. Woodward assumes his new job on Oct. 22nd. “I was honored to assist the Kirkland’s board to place an executive such as Steve Woodward
Social Planning Toronto Taps crawfordconnect to Find New Leader
Executive search firm crawfordconnect has been retained by Social Planning Toronto (SPT) to lead its search for a new executive director. Senior consultant Cynthia Armour is spearheading the assignment. The successful candidate will be expected to provide strategic, creative and dynamic leadership to the agency, said the search firm. The individual will be responsible for organizational stewardship and capacity-building
JBK Associates Names Transformational Growth Leader as Managing Director
New Jersey-based JBK Associates International has expanded with the addition of Paul Stefunek as managing director. During his 25 years in executive search, Mr. Stefunek has helped drive transformational growth for global industry leaders, venture-backed start-ups and other companies by placing candidates across the C-suite, board of directors and VP levels. He has expertise in the manufacturing,
India-Based Financial Services Firms Merge
India-based executive search firm Vito India Advisors has merged with Altor Executive Search, a search firm based in India, to form VitoAltor Advisors LLP. In a combined statement, Vito and Altor said the new entity will be India’s largest financial services executive search specialist (by market share). It will serve over 200 clients in India
Recruiting Overseas Leaders to U.S. Sports Teams Heats Up
Nolan Partners recently placed former Liverpool CEO Ian Ayre as the first CEO of Nashville MLS. “There’s a lot of other leagues and clubs that would find him incredibly attractive,” Nashville MLS owner John Ingram told the Tennessean. “This is a rather unique opportunity. And I feel very fortunate that this was of interest to him.” Mr.
International Cricket Council Taps Egon Zehnder to Find CEO
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has selected Egon Zehnder to conduct its search for a new CEO, following news that current leader David Richardson will step down next summer. Partner Neil Waters, who is based in Hong Kong, is leading the search. The Dubai-based governing body wants an executive who can oversee the delivery of a
Sterling Martin Associates Finds New Leader for COLA
Following a national search conducted by Sterling Martin Associates, Nancy Stratton has been named the new CEO of COLA, the leading accreditation provider for clinical laboratories. She succeeds Doug Beigel, who recently retired after more than 29 years with the organization. “In Nancy, our organization gains a leader with an unmatched breadth of experience in the clinical
Renovata Strengthens Search Team in New York
Renovata, a global executive search firm with offices in London, New York, Berlin and Stockholm, has expanded with the addition of former Marlin Hawk consultant George Mazzella. He joins the firm’s New York office and will help its expansion efforts across North America. Mr. Mazzella delivers both retained executive search and leadership advisory services to both
Curran Daly & Associates Opens New Office in Vietnam
Curran Daly & Associates, an executive search firm serving the Philippines, has opened a new office in Vietnam. With nearly 10 years in the search industry, Curran Daly will look to meet the talent needs of multinationals currently operating and those looking to enter the Vietnam market. “We are excited about our launch into Vietnam as
Talent Shortages and How to Address Them
Today’s employers must contend with a perfect storm of talent supply and demand challenges. Unemployment rates hover near historic lows. New technologies raise the demand for new skills. Many older workers are retiring, and companies face new competitors in the race to acquire talent while retaining the workers they have. For employers, embracing practices to
Association Strategies Tapped to Find CEO for American Academy of Nursing
Non-profit recruiting specialist Association Strategies has been selected by the American Academy of Nursing in Washington, D.C., to find its next chief executive officer. The search is being led by Pamela Kaul, president of the search firm. In a twist, the assignment is being conducted with the support of Chicago-based Tuft & Associates. The nursing academy’s
Cook Silverman Seeking Major Gifts Officer for Golden Gate University
For universities, major gift officers are among the most vital roles. The position involves identifying potential donors, cultivating relationships and, above all, garnering much-needed contributions from key supporters. Recruitment firms that can find the right person for this top-level fundraising position are much-valued partners everywhere. And for recruiters, the business of finding major gift officers
Chasm Partners Forms Recruiting Alliance with Clarify Health Solutions
Executive search firm Chasm Partners has been retained to help build out the management team of Clarify Health Solutions, a pioneer in real-time care optimization technology. The firm is leading multiple executive-level searches for Clarify Health’s San Francisco office. “We are pleased that Clarify Health has chosen our team to spearhead its executive search process for several key hires at
Optimum Talent Expands Montreal Office
Toronto-headquartered Optimum Talent has continued its recent expansion with the additions of Robert Racine, Nathalie Dallaire, Claudia Pascu and Bruno Ouellette to its Montreal office. “It is with great pride that we have been growing our team on a continual basis, integrating players whose talent, creativity and high standards of excellence enable us to meet the exciting and
Search Firms Focus on Innovative Ways to Manage Growth and Expansion
Executive search firms continue to look for more ways to drive growth — and manage it. To that end, DRG Search and ZRG Partners recently added Amichaim Abramson as chief strategy officer and Alex Bennett as chief growth officer, respectively. Mr. Abramson will collaborate with the DRG team to continue providing top-notch executive search services across the non-profit
New York City Ballet Taps Phillips Oppenheim to Find Artistic Director
A number of executive search firms have been on the hunt for artistic directors for their non-profit clients. New York City Ballet (NYCB) and the School of American Ballet (SAB) is the latest — selecting boutique recruiters Phillips Oppenheim to help find its next artistic leader. Principal Sarah James and partner Becky Klein are leading the assignment. Peter
Acertitude Lands New CFO for Binary Tree
Executive search firm Acertitude has placed Stacie Wolf as the new CFO of Binary Tree, a worldwide leader in enterprise digital IT transformations. Senior partner Scott Carberry headed the search, recruiting Mr. Wolf in 60 days. “Stacie’s capacity to build financially strong businesses combined with her diverse software background made her an excellent addition for this award-winning software
Diversified Search Appoints General Counsel
Executive search firm Diversified Search, one of the top 10 executive recruitment firms in the U.S., has continued its recent expansion with the addition of seasoned Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) executive Denielle Pemberton-Heard as its new general counsel and managing director. She will be based in the firm’s Washington, D.C., office. “Talented, driven, and with a deep professional network
PRAXI Alliance Adds New Member Firm in Finland
Executive search consultants are seeing an increase in hiring mandates from around the world. To meet demand, they continue to develop new practices, hire new recruiters and open new locations. Global recruiting consortiums, meanwhile, are taking advantage of a resurgence in certain geographic areas. Global executive search consortium PRAXI Alliance Worldwide Executive Search recently added HRS Advisors in
Russell Reynolds Associates Moves Former Heidrick CEO to No. 2 Post at National Geographic
Executive recruiting at times can make strange bedfellows. Russell Reynolds Associates recently placed Heidrick & Struggles’ chairman Tracy R. Wolstencroft as president and CEO of the National Geographic Society. The search for a new leader started in March when Gary Knell stepped down to become CEO of National Geographic Partners, the society’s joint venture with 21st Century
Spencer Stuart Tapped by AutoNation to Find Next CEO
Executive search firm Spencer Stuart has been retained by AutoNation to lead its search for a new CEO. Mike Jackson is stepping down in 2019 after serving some 20 years in the role. He will remain as executive chairman through 2021. The search will include both internal and external candidates. “The company is ready for its next
Higher Education Leadership Search Seeks Deans for Auburn University at Montgomery
Higher Education Leadership Search is spearheading searches for two deans for Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) in Alabama. Consultant Larry Benefield is leading the search for the next dean for the College of Sciences while consultant Alan Medders is in charge of finding the new dean for the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences.
Vaco Enters Three New U.S. Markets
Brentwood, TN-headquartered recruiting firm Vaco has recently expanded into Denver, Pittsburgh, and Winston-Salem/Greensboro, NC. As executive partners, Vaco’s Renee Fisher and Kevin Witt help chart the strategic course in the firm’s many local markets. “Vaco is thrilled to extend our national footprint and bring our consultative approach to talent and solutions to Denver, Pittsburgh and Winston-Salem/Greensboro,” said Ms. Fisher. “Vaco was built to be a
IRC Global Adds New Member Firm in Denmark
IRC Global Executive Search Partners (IRC) has added People & Performance A/S in Denmark as its newest member firm. “Denmark is an important market with many international knowledge-intensive companies with cross-border recruitment needs, and with IRC Denmark our worldwide executive search firm alliance has secured a strong foothold to support our international clients,” said IRC. People
Egon Zehnder Partners with Leadership Development Firm Mobius
Now more than ever, the world needs great leaders. But for leaders to best transform their organizations, they must first embrace their own transformation and continually work on self-improvement. In response, global search firm Egon Zehnder has formed a partnership with leadership development firm Mobius Executive Leadership. The alliance combines the firms’ proprietary methods for
Russell Reynolds Associates Finds New CEO for State Employees Credit Union
These are critical days for credit unions. The U.S. has nearly 6,000 of them, with more than $1.2 trillion in assets, according to the National Credit Union Administration. But with the steady retirement of Baby Boomers, among other factors, the cooperatives are facing the loss of more than 4,000 chief executive officers and senior managers







