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Daily Newswire
Egon Zehnder Examines the Great AI Divide Reshaping Private Equity Leadership
Private equity firms are moving quickly to determine where AI can create the greatest advantage across portfolio operations and investment strategy. As adoption accelerates, firms are rethinking what kind of AI leadership they need and where those roles should sit. That shift is beginning to reshape talent strategies across the PE market. Over the past
DHR Global Acquires Life Sciences-Focused Discovery Search Partners
Talent advisory firm DHR Global has acquired Discovery Search Partners, a retained executive search firm focused on the life sciences industry. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. Bill O’Callaghan of Discovery Search Partners will join DHR as managing partner and Don Evans will join as partner, while Brian Evans will help build out the life sciences vertical
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.
BoardWalk Consulting Leading Chief Philanthropy Officer Search for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul
BoardWalk Consulting was recently selected by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) to lead in its search for a chief philanthropy officer. The search is being led by Terri Kohan and Patti Kish. Philanthropy is central to that ambition. SVdP USA’s leadership aims to grow national fundraising substantially over the next three to
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?
Bespoke Partners Launches AI Leadership Benchmarks for PE-Backed Software and SaaS
Bespoke Partners has released its AI Leadership Benchmarking Guide for measuring AI deployment progress in software and SaaS company leadership for the private equity industry. “Panic drove the SaaSpocalypse fear that AI will kill software, but the transformation of software and SaaS using AI has been under way for years,” said Eric Walczykowski, CEO of
Search Leaders Have Mastered Prompting. Now They Want AI that Works for Them
As artificial intelligence becomes more deeply embedded in executive search, firms are moving beyond basic adoption to determine how the technology can deliver measurable business value. The focus is increasingly shifting toward improving productivity, strengthening client relationships, and giving recruiters more time to concentrate on high-value activities. But realizing those benefits will require more than
TurnkeyZRG Leading Athletic Director Search for the University of Michigan
The University of Michigan is launching a national search for its next athletic director, with president-elect C. Cybele Raver leading the process in partnership with current president Domenico Grasso. The school has retained TurnkeyZRG to lead the assignment. The university is seeking a leader of unquestioned integrity who will take a fresh, comprehensive look at Michigan
Lock Search Group Leading Efforts to Recruit CEO for Atlas Sign & Awning
Toronto-headquartered executive recruitment firm Lock Search Group was retained by Atlas Sign & Awning to find its next CEO. Recruitment consultant, partner Cameron Lappin is leading the assignment. Reporting directly to the CEO of the holding company, the appointed CEO for Atlas Sign & Awning will provide strategic and operational leadership across all facets of the business,
Slayton Search Partners Grows Consumer Practice
Slayton Search Partners has expanded with the addition of Karen Ouchterloney as vice president and managing principal in the firm’s consumer practice. “We are pleased to welcome Karen to Slayton Search Partners,” said Richard Slayton, CEO and managing partner. “Her combination of firsthand operating experience with leading consumer brands and more than 13 years advising clients
TRANSEARCH Adds New Member Firm in Poland
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. TRANSEARCH International has added GP Executive as a member firm in
Consulting Partner Compensation Strengthens as AI and Private Equity Reshape the Market
The North American consulting market is showing signs of renewed strength, with improving revenue performance and resilient partner compensation. A new report from The Barton Partnership examines how compensation, ownership structures, and career expectations are evolving as consulting firms navigate shifting business models and growing private equity investment. The findings also point to mounting concerns
The Old Math Is Broken: Rethinking Growth, Headcount and Margins in the AI Era
The traditional growth model for executive search firms is undergoing a significant shift as artificial intelligence reshapes how recruiting businesses operate. For years, expansion meant adding more clients, mandates, recruiters, and overhead. Today, AI is creating opportunities to increase productivity, improve margins, and grow revenue without expanding headcount at the same pace. These advances are
Preng & Associates Recruits Chief Construction Officer for Pacifico Energy
Houston-based Preng & Associates has placed Ronald Hall as chief construction officer at Pacifico Energy, a global energy infrastructure developer specializing in power generation and customized energy solutions for commercial, industrial, and data center customers. The appointment comes at a pivotal time for Pacifico Energy as the company advances major power generation developments to meet
Potrero Group Currently Seeking Executive Director for The Pisgah Conservancy
San Francisco-based leadership consulting and search firm Potrero Group is currently leading the executive director search for The Pisgah Conservancy. Senior consultant Jena Kuznik is leading the assignment. The executive director serves as TPC’s chief executive and is the primary steward of its mission, culture, and long-term vision. This is an opportunity to lead a respected conservation organization
Charles Aris Appoints Senior Practice Leader
Greensboro, NC-based executive search firm Charles Aris Executive Search has expanded with the recent addition of Scott Kennedy as senior practice leader. He will lead CFO and senior finance executive searches for growth-oriented and sponsor-backed companies, with a particular focus on software, technology and TMT. Over more than a decade in executive search, Mr. Kennedy has worked on
Talent Alignment: Why Human Capital Must Be Central to Business Strategy
While growth is expected to strengthen a business, many organizations eventually reach a point where the opposite appears to be true. Decision-making slows, accountability becomes less defined, and initiatives begin to lose momentum. Leaders begin wondering whether they need different people, a recent report from Ascentria Search Partners explained. Sometimes they do, but not always. But
Isaacson, Miller Recruits 17th President for Virginia Tech
Boston-based Isaacson, Miller has assisted in the recruitment of Richard Linton as the 17th president of Virginia Tech. He succeeds Tim Sands, who announced his resignation in April. Greg Esposito and Julie Filizetti led the search with Kristen Andersen, Raul Bernal, Victoria Castillo, and Gabrielle Nayar. “Virginia Tech is poised to make a generational leap as a
NU Advisory Partners Recruits Chief Marketing Officer for Paula’s Choice
NU Advisory Partners has placed Sheila Shekar Pollak as chief marketing officer of Paula’s Choice. The search was led by Libby Naumes, Penina Remler, and Kelsey Kelly. Ms. Shekar Pollak brings more than 20 years of marketing and brand leadership experience across consumer, beauty, apparel, and outdoor brands. Most recently, she served as chief marketing officer
Modern Executive Solutions Names New Leader to Drive M1 Technology Community Expansion
Atlanta-based talent consultancy Modern Executive Solutions has expanded with the addition of Joan Rohs as senior partner, M1 Technology Community. “We’re building an integrated network that connects exceptional leaders, brings together the right expertise, and helps prepare executives for a world being reshaped by AI,” said Mark Oppenheimer, CEO of Modern Executive Solutions. “Joan brings an extraordinary
StevenDouglas Expands HR Practice
StevenDouglas recently expanded with the addition of Brittney Molitor as a director, human resources search. “Brittney takes a highly consultative approach to search, focusing on both the capabilities required for a role and the cultural alignment needed for long-term success,” StevenDouglas said in a LinkedIn post. “She is passionate about building genuine relationships with clients
Insight Partners Launches Empower to Prepare CIOs for Board Roles
AI and software investor Insight Partners has launched Empower, a program that helps Global 2000 CIOs plan and prepare for board seats, startup advisory positions and other portfolio-career paths while they are still in their operating roles. Empower launches with 10 delivery partners, including Diligent, Heidrick & Struggles, Riviera Partners, and Global Mentors Group, and has
Brettschneider Executive Search Tapped by William Paterson University to Find Next Provost
New York City-based Brettschneider Executive Search has been retained by William Paterson University (WP) to lead in its search for a provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. Reporting to president Richard J. Helldobler, the provost will serve as chief academic officer and as a visible, collaborative partner to the president, cabinet, deans, and faculty governance bodies.
Klein Hersh Recruits President and CEO for Shenandoah Therapeutics
Klein Hersh, a search firm focused on the life sciences and healthcare industries, has placed Steve Worland as president, CEO and a member of the board of directors at Shenandoah Therapeutics. Co-founder and founding CEO Isabella Graef, has transitioned to chief scientific officer and will continue to lead Shenandoah’s scientific strategy. “I’m delighted to welcome
Harris Search Associates Seeking Research Leader for Texas A&M Semiconductor Institute
Harris Search Associates is currently seeking the inaugural director of research for Texas A&M Semiconductor Institute (TSI). Jeffrey Harris and Richard Skinner are leading the assignment. Working in close partnership with the TSI Director and other Institute leaders, the director of research serves as a catalyst to refine and evolve the TSI’s research strategy, focused on large-scale academic-industry-government private
BarkerGilmore Names Senior Director
Boutique search firm BarkerGilmore, which specializes in building corporate legal and compliance teams, recently expanded with the addition of Jesus Meraz as senior director. He brings a unique combination of leadership experience, legal training, and strategic business insight to the firm’s executive search practice. His career has been defined by helping organizations identify, attract, and develop
Revenge Quitting Creates New Challenges for Recruiters
You spend weeks helping a team find the right person. A few months later, that same role lands back on your desk because the employee has resigned. Now the position is urgent, the hiring manager wants a replacement right away, and the pressure is coming from every direction. When exits like this occur at particularly
Peña Search Seeking Chief Strategy Officer for Housing Forward
Peña Search was recently retained by Housing Forward to lead in its hunt for a chief strategy officer. Travis Hillier is leading the assignment. Reporting to the president and CEO, the chief strategy officer will serve as Housing Forward’s chief strategist and a member of the executive leadership team. The CSO will oversee the teams
Nexus Search Partners Recruits CEO for Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region
Nexus Search Partners, an executive search and advisory firm in Charlotte, NC, has assisted in the recruitment of Bryant Owens as the new CEO of Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region. He will succeed Laura Belcher, who has served the organization with distinction for more than 12 years. Owens will become the sixth CEO
Charles Aris Launches Interim Search Business
Organizations are increasingly turning to flexible leadership solutions to navigate periods of change, execute strategic initiatives and drive value creation, especially in private equity. In response to this growing demand, Greensboro, NC-based executive search firm Charles Aris Executive Search has launched Charles Aris Interim Solutions, a new division dedicated to connecting organizations with experienced independent talent for interim
Potential vs. Performance: Rethinking the Leadership Pipeline
Being a successful business leader has always been associated with a fast-paced management style, but today more than ever, leaders must constantly adapt and be prepared to navigate rapid change. Leadership roles across organizations of all types have become increasingly complex, requiring the ability to balance competing priorities at the same time. In this environment,
BoardWalk Consulting Tapped By Greenpeace USA for Chief Financial and Operations Officer
Executive recruitment firm BoardWalk Consulting has been retained by Greenpeace USA to lead in its search for a chief financial and operations officer (CFOO). Director Michelle Hall, senior associate Terri Kohan, and director of research Patti Kish are leading the assignment. Greenpeace USA requires an executive who is an experienced, adaptive leader with a passion for environmental justice to lead in
ON Partners Recruits CEO for Occupier
ON Partners’ Daniel Bolger, Jake Espenlaub, and Bailey Thomas have helped to recruit David Axler as the new CEO of Occupier, a commercial lease management and accounting software platform based in New York City. The announcement comes alongside strategic leadership moves that position the company for its next phase of growth, with co-founders Matt Giffune and Andrew
Wilton & Bain Names Leader of CFO and Financial Leadership Practice
Wilton & Bain has appointed Gareth Mason as partner, leading the firm’s CFO and financial leadership practice. He will be based in the U.K. and joins Wilton & Bain’s European leadership team. “We are thrilled to welcome Gareth to the firm,” said Tim Baker, managing partner at Wilton & Bain. “Looking for the right person to lead
Alexander Hughes Forms Alliance with CORE3
Alexander Hughes has formed an alliance with CORE3, a strategic management consulting firm that is part of Balubaid Group, one of Saudi Arabia’s most respected family-owned conglomerates. This agreement marks the beginning of a strategic partnership, through a planned Joint venture, focused on developing board advisory, governance effectiveness, executive search, human capital appraisal, and executive interim management services in the Saudi
Spencer Stuart Appoints New CFO
Spencer Stuart has appointed Clare Kennedy as its new chief financial officer. She succeeds Christine Laurens as part of a planned succession and in support of Ms. Laurens’ retirement from full-time executive work. Ms. Laurens will remain with the firm for several months to ensure a smooth transition. “We are grateful to Christine for her
The Private Equity Executive Talent Trends That Will Define 2026
Private equity is still a capital business, but it’s increasingly a leadership business. Deal flow isn’t what it was a few years ago and capital is more selective, according to a new report from Beecher Reagan. “Many funds are sitting on dry powder longer than expected,” the report said. “And when that happens, the spotlight
Greenwood Asher & Associates Assists West Virginia University with Provost Search
Following a national search, Miramar Beach, FL-based executive recruitment firm Greenwood Asher & Associates has assisted in the recruitment of Beverly Wendland as provost and vice president for academic affairs for West Virginia University (WVU). Julie Holley and Julie Schrodt led the assignment for the search firm. “Beverly is a nationally recognized cell biologist who has served as a faculty member,
JDG Associates Tapped by the Defense Health Agency to Fill Senior Position
Rockville, MD-based executive search firm JDG Associates has been selected by the Defense Health Agency (DHA) to lead in its search for director, TRICARE Health Plan. With a budget of more than $55 billion, DHA is a Combat Support Agency that oversees the Military Health System (MHS) and delivers care to 9.6 million beneficiaries worldwide. This senior
N2Growth Opens Office in Milan
N2Growth, a Philadelphia-based management consulting and executive search firm, has expanded with the addition of a new office in Milan, Italy. The office will be jointly led by three global partners: Daniele Grandini, senior partner; Roberto Giacometti, managing partner; and Paolo del Conte, senior partner. “N2Growth’s strength has always been our ability to pair local reach
The CFO Talent Shortage Is Reaching a Breaking Point
According to global talent advisor ZRG, the shortage of chief financial officers and their finance teams is reaching epic proportions as we head into another busy year of executive recruiting. With market complexity increasing, CFOs are in high demand, yet the supply of qualified candidates is dwindling. This shortage is being driven by a convergence of
Waterstone Human Capital Acquires Spectrum Recruiting Solutions
Culture-driven executive search and leadership advisory firm Waterstone Human Capital has acquired Spectrum Recruiting Solutions, a U.S.-based professional recruitment firm specializing in manufacturing and engineering industries. The acquisition continues Waterstone’s expansion and reinforces its commitment to delivering culture-focused talent solutions across North America. “We are thrilled to welcome Spectrum Recruiting Solutions and their outstanding team into
DHR Global Seeking Executive Director for the Glacier National Park Conservancy
Talent advisory firm DHR Global has been selected by the Glacier National Park Conservancy to find its next executive director. Kris McFeely, Tom Berray, and Emma Kemper are leading this search and eager to connect with mission-driven professionals with experience in fundraising, financial management, team leadership, and a passion for conservation. This critical leadership position is responsible for the
The Moran Company Tapped by National Assistance League to Find New Executive Director
The Moran Company, an executive recruitment firm that specializes in the non-profit sector, has been retained by National Assistance League to lead in its search for a new executive director. Senior search consultant Mike English is leading the assignment. The executive director is responsible for the day-to-day operations of National Assistance League, which includes managing staff,
Slone Partners Appoints Partner, Fractional Talent
Life sciences-focused search firm Slone Partners has named George Quinn as partner, fractional talent. In this position, Mr. Quinn will play a crucial part in advancing Slone Partners’ fractional talent solutions – connecting startup and growth-stage life sciences and healthcare organizations with seasoned leaders and functional experts on a flexible, on-demand basis. “George’s depth of experience, strategic mindset, and
How to Improve Your HR Executive Search Process
Securing the right HR leader requires more than a traditional hiring process—it demands the same rigor, clarity, and strategic discipline used for any major business decision. Organizations that consistently make strong HR executive hires treat the search as an enterprise priority, aligning stakeholders early, sharpening evaluation criteria, and building a candidate experience that attracts top
Unemployment Falls to 4.4 Percent as 50,000 New Job Added
Employment rose by 50,000 in December as the U.S. unemployment rate fell to 4.4 percent, according to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report. Employment continued to trend up in food services and drinking places, healthcare, and social assistance. Retail trade lost jobs. The number of unemployed people, at 7.5 million, changed little in December.
7 Questions to Ask When Choosing an International Recruiter
International recruiting quickly becomes a different game altogether—one where local networks, cultural fluency, and trusted on-the-ground connections often matter more than the tools or tactics employers rely on at home. However, many employers do not like working with recruitment companies, according to a report from NPAworldwide. “In markets that employers know well and have social
SearchWide Global Seeking Chief Marketing and Public Relations Officer for Nashville Zoo
Executive recruitment firm SearchWide Global has been retained by Nashville Zoo to lead in its search for a chief marketing and public relations officer. Senior vice president Kellie Henderson is leading the assignment. This executive is responsible for leading the strategic marketing, communications, and public relations efforts of Nashville Zoo. This role oversees all aspects of marketing, media relations, and
Protis Global Appoints EVP of Fulfillment
Executive search and advisory firm Protis Global has appointed Skye Miller as partner and executive vice president of sales fulfillment. “We invest in leadership where it creates the greatest long-term return,” said Bert Miller, chairman and CEO of Protis Global. “Skye’s experience and commitment to developing exceptional talent strengthen our operating foundation and expand our capacity to deliver
How Functional C-Suite Roles Are Changing
Functional C-suite roles are being reshaped by rising complexity, pushing companies to build leadership teams that are not only individually strong but strategically integrated across the enterprise. Spencer Stuart has long tracked the evolution of key functional C-suite roles as part of its client work. Specifically, the firm found that senior functional roles have become
Caldwell Posts 37.1 Percent Increase in Q1 Revenues
Caldwell posted Q1 revenues of $29.3 million (Canadian), an increase of 37.1 percent from $21.4 million, a year ago. “Our first quarter results represent an excellent start to fiscal 2026, with exceptional revenue growth and improved profitability year over year,” said Chris Beck, CEO. “Performance was strong across the business, reflecting increased hiring demand from
CAA Executive Search Recruits CEO for USA Gymnastics
CAA Executive Search has recruited Kyle Albrecht as the new CEO of USA Gymnastics. In collaboration with CAA Executive Search, the group vetted candidates for three months. “Congratulations Kyle Albrecht, being named as the next CEO of USA Gymnastics,” Jason Hanold, president of CAA Executive Search, said in a LinkedIn post. “Thank you for the partnership Kathryn
Arts Consulting Group Recruits COO for the Bruce
Boston-based search firm Arts Consulting Group (ACG) has placed Nathan Smallwood as the new chief operating officer of the Bruce Museum (the Bruce) in Greenwich, Conn. Todd Ahrens and Josyanne Roche, vice presidents at the firm, led the assignment. “Nathan Smallwood’s background and expertise made him an obvious choice for the Bruce,” said Mary-Kate O’Hare, Susan E. Lynch executive
The Energists Appoints Partner
Houston-based The Energists has named Sheharyar Khan as partner. He will work closely with clients across North America, Europe, and the Middle East. “Sheharyar represents exactly the kind of forward-looking leadership our clients expect from us,” said Jon Hill, managing partner. “His analytical discipline, technical fluency, and client-side pragmatism, strengthened by his time at PwC, make him an effective advisor to organizations seeking executives who can
Why Executive Search Firms Remain Essential for High-Stakes Leadership Hires
Executive search firms deliver unique value when filling leadership positions that impact organizational performance, according to a new study from Denver, CO-based TriSearch. Reports find that most qualified executive candidates (85 percent) aren’t actively seeking opportunities, making traditional recruitment methods insufficient. These firms provide access to a network of passive candidates developed through years of relationship
The Modern Board’s Evolution: Why Governance Is Becoming More Human
The role of the board is being redefined by forces that can’t be managed through compliance alone—technology acceleration, rising stakeholder expectations, cultural fragility, and constant reputational exposure. As governance moves closer to the center of strategy and long-term value creation, boards are being called to operate less like auditors and more like leadership partners, bringing
Crist|Kolder Associates Recruits CFO for Marathon Petroleum Corp.
Crist|Kolder Associates has helped to recruit Maria A. Khoury as executive vice president and chief financial officer of NYSE-traded Marathon Petroleum Corp. (MPC). She will succeed John J. Quaid, who will remain with the company for a period of transition. “Maria’s deep financial operations expertise and broad industry experience from 25 years as a global finance business
EQU Advisory Leading Search Assignment for California State University, Chico
Executive search firm EQU Advisors was recently tapped by California State University, Chico (Chico State) to lead in its search for a new dean of the College of Business. Reporting to the provost and vice president of academic affairs, the dean of the College of Business serves as the lead academic and administrative officer for the
Cornerstone International Group Opens New Office in Frankfurt
Cornerstone International Group has opened a new office in Frankfurt and appointed of Florian Kittler as global sector head—hospitality, travel & leisure. “The expansion reflects increasing demand from hospitality, travel, and lifestyle organizations for leadership partners who combine global reach with deep sector expertise, as the industry navigates international growth, digital transformation, and evolving client
What are Boards Doing Differently for Better Executive Appointments in 2026?
Boards are increasingly reshaping how they approach executive appointments—building the governance discipline, assessment rigor, and future-facing criteria needed to make confident leadership decisions in a more volatile and accelerated world. Leadership decisions are moving faster, carrying higher stakes and less room for error, according to a recent report from Signium. “Today, boards are asking whether
Why Speed is Critical in Executive Recruiting
Executive leadership vacancies rarely arrive at a convenient moment—and in a business climate defined by rapid change, shrinking decision windows, and relentless performance demands, the cost of an empty seat compounds quickly. What was once viewed as a manageable transition period can now undermine momentum across strategy, operations, and culture, especially when teams are already
