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Cornerstone International Group Opens New Office Johannesburg
Cornerstone International Group has opened a new office in Johannesburg to deepen its footprint in South Africa. Leading the new office is Paul O’Brien, an executive search specialist with over 14 years of experience across South Africa, the U.K., Hong Kong, the UAE, and broader Africa. “South Africa is a vital growth frontier where exceptional leadership
Why Your Digital Presence is the New Executive Resume
In an increasingly competitive executive search environment, visibility has become a critical factor in how senior talent is identified, assessed, and ultimately hired. Recruiters and hiring leaders are no longer relying solely on traditional resumes, but instead are leveraging digital platforms to build a more complete and real-time view of candidates. As a result, professionals
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.
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
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?
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.
Options Group Appoints VP in London
Options Group has named Henry Wilson as a vice president in London. He will specialize in the commodities trading technology sector. Over the past 12 years, Mr. Wilson has specialized in technology recruitment across commodities and capital markets, partnering with trading businesses to solve complex hiring challenges across front‑office, quantitative, and core trading technology functions. He previously spent over
Inside the AI Integration Gap: What Separates the Firms Moving Furthest
Executive search is off to a strong start in 2026. Americas revenue across the industry is tracking up approximately 10 to 11 percent, and a number of search firms are posting growth rates that would have been notable even in stronger markets. But beneath that headline, a different kind of divide is opening up —
The Most Overlooked Step in Hiring, and Why It Matters
In today’s hiring environment, organizations devote significant attention to attracting and securing top talent, yet many overlook the period immediately following offer acceptance. While the candidate may have formally agreed to join the company, important expectations, logistics, and verbal commitments often remain unresolved or undocumented. Recruiters say this overlooked stage can have a major impact
Bryant Group Fills Senior Post for the University of Oklahoma Foundation
Dallas-based executive search and talent development firm Bryant Group has assisted in the recruitment of Laura Ketchum as assistant vice president of advancement, OU Health Campus, at the University of Oklahoma Foundation. The search was led by Sarah Hempen, vice president of search. “Laura brings an extraordinary combination of campaign leadership, principal gift expertise and a proven ability to inspire high-performing
The Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority Retains Krauthamer & Associates for CEO Search
Krauthamer & Associates (K&A) has been retained by the Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority to lead in its search for a CEO. The search is expected to take several months. Interim CEO Brent Cagle will continue leading day-to-day operations in the meantime and has been encouraged to apply for the permanent role, according to the board. MPTA board
The New Engine of Executive Search: How Hunt Scanlon Is Powering a Productivity Revolution
As the executive search industry confronts growing pressure to deliver consistent, high-level performance, recruiting firms are rethinking how their consultants are trained and developed. To that end, Hunt Scanlon and its HSiQ talent intelligence advisory unit last week began rolling out a new Recruiter Performance Training Program designed to bring greater structure, rigor, and scalability
AI Meets Executive Search: The New Algorithmic Era
Artificial intelligence is transforming how executive search is conducted, from sourcing and shortlisting to delivery and client engagement. In today’s competitive landscape, AI isn’t just a tool to speed up the process, it’s fast becoming a critical edge for winning mandates and enhancing outcomes. “The hype is over,” said Andrew Quinn, CTO of Ezekia and
Wray Executive Search Recruits CEO for Twin Hospitality Group
The hospitality industry continues to see strong demand for proven leadership as brands expand, innovate, and compete for market share. Wray Executive Search, a provider of executive search and advisory services in the restaurant, foodservice, retail, and franchise industries, recently assisted in the recruitment of Kim Boerema as the new CEO of Twin Hospitality Group
The Energists Strengthens Brookside Energy Leadership with Key CFO and Investor Relations Appointments
The Energists is a boutique executive search firm focused on the energy sector. Its client list is diverse across the energy industry, geographies, and business scenarios. A boutique, high integrity firm established in 1979, The Energists operates exclusively within the energy industry. Its staff comprises accomplished industry professionals and leaders, each with their own area
Signium Expands into Athens, Greece
Executive search consortium Signium has expanded in Athens, Greece with the additions of Artemis Miropoulos and Dimitris Papanikitopoulos. They are the founders of Linkage, a SHRM company that offers leadership development resources focused on producing effective and purposeful leaders. “Artemis and Dimitris bring a depth of expertise and human understanding that resonates with Signium’s core values,” said Annelize van
Clarity Over Charisma: How Great Leaders Truly Communicate
Effective leadership communication isn’t about eloquence, charisma, or having the loudest voice in the room—it’s about connection. The most impactful leaders understand that words are only a small part of the equation. True influence comes from clarity, empathy, and the ability to listen as much as you speak. When leaders shift their focus from how
U.S. Unemployment Holds at 4.3 Percent as Healthcare Gains Offset Government and Energy Losses
Employment rose by 22,000 in August as the U.S. unemployment rate stands at 4.3 percent, according to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report. A job gain in healthcare was partially offset by losses in federal government and in mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction. Among the major worker groups, the unemployment rates
Isaacson, Miller Recruits Chief Advancement Officer for the Taft School
Nicole Poe, Maureen Perry, and Ryan Cheung of Boston-based Isaacson, Miller have recruited Kathleen Cleary as the new chief advancement officer of the Taft School. The appointment follows a nationwide search led by the executive search firm Isaacson, Miller, with guidance from an advisory committee that helped shape the position description, review candidate materials, and interview
NU Advisory Recruits Chief Marketing Officer for M-Files
NU Advisory Partners has assisted in the recruitment of Debbie Umbach as chief marketing officer of M-Files, a Austin, TX-based provider of AI-native document management. “We’re thrilled to welcome Debbie to the team,” said Jay Bhatt, CEO of M-Files. “Her deep expertise across the entire marketing lifecycle, from building growth engines to elevating global brand
Tempting Talent Opens New Office in Miami
Tempting Talent, a global provider of recruitment-to-recruitment, search-to-search and building talent teams within investment sectors, has opened a new office in Miami. “Since inception, Tempting Talent has developed deep partnerships with executive search firms, staffing agencies, and PE/VC funds across North America, the opening of a Miami office reinforces its commitment to growth in the
Agile Leadership Strategies: 6 Ways to Lead with Flexibility and Focus
Today’s organizations are navigating an environment of almost constant disruption and change. From ongoing economic uncertainty and rapid advances in digital transformation, to shifting workforce demographics and rising employee expectations, businesses are being challenged to adapt faster than ever before. Traditional leadership models, which often emphasize stability, hierarchy, and predictability, are no longer sufficient to
SPMB Recruits Chief Product Officer for Menlo Security
SPMB Executive Search recently placed Ramin Farassat as chief product officer of Menlo Security, Inc. The search was led by Sean Lucq from SPMB’s engineering and product practice. “Ramin’s deep commitment to innovation and his passion for building high-performing teams make him exceptionally well-suited to lead Menlo Security’s mission of fundamentally shifting how organizations secure users and data in
The Moran Company Recruits Eighth Executive Director for the American Philatelic Society
The Moran Company, an executive recruitment firm that specializes in the non-profit sector, has assisted in the recruitment of Kirk Gillis as the eighth executive director of the American Philatelic Society (APS). Senior search consultant Mike English led the assignment. Mr. Gillis replaces outgoing executive director Scott English, who announced his departure in November 2024, completing almost
Spencer Stuart Names Co-Leader of Board Advisory Practice
Spencer Stuart has expanded with the addition of Rebecca Thornton in New York as co-leader of the board advisory practice. She will lead the practice alongside George Anderson, who is based in Spencer Stuart’s Boston office. Julie Daum, a longtime firm leader in board advisory, will serve as chair of the practice. “We are thrilled to welcome Rebecca back
IIC Partners Adds New Member Firm in Tokyo
IIC Partners Executive Search Worldwide has expanded in Japan with the addition of FocusCore Group K.K. in Tokyo as its newest member firm. “We are delighted to welcome the FocusCore team to IIC Partners,” said Christine Hayward, executive director of IIC Partners. “With their stellar reputation and deep expertise in the Japanese market—particularly in finance and accounting
Six Strategies to Get Ahead of Geopolitical Business Risks
For businesses operating in today’s volatile marketplace, geopolitical risks have moved from background noise to boardroom priority. Whether it’s trade wars, military conflicts, new regulatory regimes, or diplomatic breakdowns, international business leaders are finding that geopolitical factors now influence everything from supply chain continuity to investor confidence, according to a recent report from Signium’s Angela
Coulter Partners Recruits CFO for iOnctura
Life sciences recruiting specialist Coulter Partners has recruited Steven Sciuto as the new CFO of iOnctura. “Following our successful initiation of a number of Phase II studies for our lead asset, roginolisib, we are committed to building a world-class leadership team that not only delivers on the promise of this asset but also strengthens our entire portfolio,” said Catherine
BoardWalk Consulting Assists the Lumpkin Family Foundation with Executive Director Search
Executive recruitment firm BoardWalk Consulting has assisted in the placement of Heidi Dusek as executive director of the Lumpkin Family Foundation. Founder Sam Pettway and senior research associate Lysondra Somerville led the assignment. Bruce Karmazin, the foundation’s executive director since 2001, told the board of his intention to retire this summer. “Deep appreciation is also given to the search committee, chair Steve Shirar,
ADK Consulting & Executive Search Recruits Airport Director for Addison Airport
ADK Consulting & Executive Search has recruited Jaime Edrosa as airport director of Addison Airport (ADS), one of the largest general aviation airports in the United States. Senior project manager Kenneth Gwyn led the search team. “Jaime Edrosa’s broad experience across airport operations, construction, and security, paired with his collaborative leadership style, makes him an outstanding fit to
Dexian Acquires Conga Technologies to Boost AI and Workplace Solutions
Dexian, a global provider of talent and technology solutions, has acquired Conga Technologies, an innovator in AI-powered managed services used by technology enterprises in search, cloud, storage, social networking, semiconductor, and enterprise software (SaaS) solutions. Financial terms of the deal were not included. The acquisition along with the formation of its new ByteMethod.ai subsidiary is part
Why Talent Is The Primary Success Lever in M&A Deal Making
Dealmakers say people matter. But when it comes to execution, most still overlook human capital where it counts. That is the main finding from The Say Versus Do Divide in M&A, a 2025 report from Mercer and the Transaction Advisors Institute. The study, based on insights from corporate development and HR leaders involved in more than 1,200
Russell Reynolds Associates Recruits CEO for Uplift Education
After a robust succession planning process led by the board and in partnership with global leadership advisory firm Russell Reynolds Associates, Uplift Education has appointed Remy Washington as its next CEO beginning in January 2026. Longtime CEO Yasmin Bhatia will retire from her role at the end of December 2025. Dr. Washington, currently president of Uplift,
The Christopher Group Recruits CHRO for The CAR Group
The Christopher Group (TCG), a boutique HR executive search and business solutions recruiting firm, has placed Kandi Gongora as chief human resources officer of The CAR Group in Dallas, TX. Managing partner Ayla Maloney and recruiting director Kristen Perez led the assignment. “It’s been an honor to partner with Taylor Conant and his team on the search for
CarterBaldwin Recruits Chief Legal Officer for Feed the Children
CarterBaldwin Executive Search has recruited Nil Loy as the first chief legal officer of Feed the Children. Partner Bill Peterson and search consultant Rodney Anderson led the assignment. “Feed the Children is gaining a tremendous strategic leader in Nil Loy, and we all look forward to collaborating to create a world where no child goes to bed hungry,” said Emily
WittKieffer Names Five Senior Partners
Oak Brook, IL-based WittKieffer has appointed five new senior partners. As part of its ongoing commitment to fostering leadership from within, WittKieffer elevates individuals based on demonstrated leadership qualities, expertise in the search and advisory professions, and commitment to company values, the search firm explained. “For 56 years, WittKieffer has flourished due in large part to
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,
ON Partners Recruits CEO for Power Integrations
ON Partners recently assisted in the recruitment of Jennifer Lloyd as the new CEO of NASDAQ-traded Power Integrations in San Jose, CA. Partners Tim Conti, Mike Lynch, and Cher Murphy led the assignment. She succeeds Balu Balakrishnan, who has served as CEO since 2002. A former member of Power Integrations’ board of directors, Dr. Lloyd has been reappointed
Slone Partners Appoints President and Partner, Hospitals & Healthcare Delivery Solutions
Life sciences-focused search firm Slone Partners has named Kyle Kinzie as president and partner, hospitals & healthcare delivery solutions. “Kyle Kinzie is a remarkably dynamic and innovative strategic leader with a penchant for driving growth across key business verticals – from healthcare to talent management. I’m impressed with his track record and entrepreneurial mindset,” said Leslie Loveless, co-CEO and
DHR Global Appoints First Woman, Nonfamily Member as CEO
Talent advisory firm DHR Global has appointed Priya Taneja as CEO, effective September 1, 2025. She will succeed Geoff Hoffmann, who will transition to the role of chairman of the board. This milestone marks a historic moment for the firm, as Ms. Taneja becomes the first nonfamily CEO in DHR’s 36-year history signaling a deliberate step forward
Boyden Recruits Chancellor for the University of Technology Sydney
Academic institutions continue to pump big fees into executive search firms nationwide. Many academic recruiting specialists say business, in fact, has never been better despite some sectors of executive search slowing over the past year. Even smaller recruiting outfits have multiple assignments running concurrently, all at the senior levels, and if there’s any slowdown coming
Kirk Palmer Associates Places Chief Commercial Officer at PetSmart
Retail-focused executive search firm Kirk Palmer Associates has recruited Jesica Duarte as executive vice president and chief commercial officer of PetSmart. Dana Levine, Suzannah Brown, and Jennifer Riemer led the assignment. “Jesica is a strategic and growth-minded leader, with an impressive career tenure working across successful retail brands,” said Ken Hicks, president and CEO of PetSmart. “She has
Hiring for Impact: Aligning Talent with Your Organization’s Mission
Your non-profit is more than an organization—it’s a mission-driven movement with a purpose. So why are you hiring people who only punch the clock, asked ExecSearches.com’s F. Jay Hall. “The days of simply checking off a resume for the right years of experience are over,” he said. “You’re not just looking for a new employee; you’re
