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Daily Newswire
TurnkeyZRG Tapped by the Academy of Country Music for CEO Search
The Academy of Country Music (ACM) has retained TurnkeyZRG to lead in its search for a new CEO. Tom Truitt, Rich Tackenberg, Christopher Wingert, and Anne Johnson are leading the assignment. The Academy of Country Music seeks a visionary, results-driven leader to serve as its next CEO. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of one of
Wilton & Bain Expands People & Culture Practice
Wilton & Bain has appointed Claire Paramo as a partner in its people & culture practice. Claire will be based in the firm’s London headquarters. “I am delighted to welcome Claire to Wilton & Bain,” said Tim Baker, managing partner at Wilton & Bain. “Over recent months, I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know her and
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
Inside the Evolving Role of HR Leadership
As organizations scale and evolve, building the right HR leadership structure becomes a critical driver of performance and long-term success. Yet many companies still rely on outdated benchmarks and assumptions that fail to reflect the complexity of today’s business environment. Increasingly, leaders are recognizing that effective HR is not about headcount ratios, but about aligning
The Talent Studios Recruits Chief Growth Officer for Hyland’s Consumer Health
The Talent Studios has assisted in the recruitment of Lindsay Martin as chief growth officer of Hyland’s Consumer Health, a pediatric-focused consumer health company backed by Hildred Capital. Jeremy Cohen, Katlyn Maloney, and Gretchen Koch led the assignment. Ms. Martin brings more than 15 years of experience leading brand and commercial strategy for some of the most
Kestria Expands in Mexico
Kestria, formerly known as IRC Global Executive Search Partners, has added a new member firm in Mexico with the addition of Performance Talent Consulting International, a boutique consultancy specializing in executive search, talent management and organizational development. “Kestria is delighted to welcome a new member firm in Mexico, marking a key milestone in our alliance’s growth
Hunt Scanlon to Host Conferences in New York City and London on AI
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming talent strategy by enabling faster, more precise, and scalable decision-making across the hiring lifecycle. Rather than merely automating tasks, AI is enhancing how companies identify, evaluate, and retain top talent. It allows recruiters and talent leaders to shift their focus from manual processes to higher-level strategy and relationship building. Search
Eastward Partners Appoints Managing Director
New York-based Eastward Partners has expanded with the addition of Brian Ippolito as managing director, strengthening the firm’s focus on placing go-to-market leaders across private equity and venture capital-backed portfolio companies. Mr. Ippolito joins the firm as it continues to scale its consultative model through ECHO—Eastward’s proprietary intelligence platform. “ECHO integrates market data, human capital trends,
Funk Associates Fills President Roles for Florida International University, Coastal Carolina University, and University of St. Thomas – Houston
Funk Associates has recently completed presidential searches for Florida International University (FIU), Coastal Carolina University (CCU), and University of St. Thomas – Houston (UST). “These searches reflect the continued trust institutions place in our firm to identify visionary and mission-driven leaders,” said Bill Funk, founder and CEO of Funk Associates. “We are proud to have partnered with each of these
Transforming the Recruiter’s Role From Volume to Value
According to the Wall Street Journal, U.S. public companies have reduced their white-collar workforces by a collective 3.5 percent over the past three years, all while corporate profits have surged to record highs. One in five companies in the S&P 500 now operate with fewer employees than a decade ago, despite having significantly higher revenues. Executives
PierceGray Tapped by Alliance Markets & Vending to Fill Senior Post
PierceGray has been selected by Alliance Markets & Vending to lead in its search for a new controller. With plans to accelerate the growth and profitability of the business, Alliance seeks to hire a controller to build and lead the accounting function including all technical accounting, policies and procedures, audit compliance, and reporting, and the financial
HVS Executive Search Names CEO
Global hospitality consulting firm HVS Executive Search has appointed Alice Sherman as CEO, beginning January 1, 2026. After more than 35 years in the retained executive search industry—including 12 years as CEO of HVS Executive Search—Court Williams will be retiring from his role. To ensure a seamless leadership transition and continued support for the company’s clients and team,
Private Equity Shifts Focus in Executive Hiring
In the evolving environment of private equity, the expectations placed on executive talent are undergoing a dramatic transformation. As firms adapt to shifting market dynamics, leadership teams are reassessing how executives engage, lead, and deliver value within portfolio companies. One of the most notable shifts is a renewed emphasis on in-person leadership, with cultural cohesion,
The Christopher Group Recruits Head of HR for Blistex
The Christopher Group (TCG), a boutique HR executive search and business solutions recruiting firm, has assisted in the recruitment of Nick Mariman as the new head of HR at Blistex. Nat Schiffer and Carrie Longmire led the assignment. “It is an incredible honor to partner with Blistex — a respected, multi-generational organization with a rich legacy of innovation and
The Metropolitan Entertainment & Convention Authority Retains Shelli Herman and Associates to Find New CEO
Los Angeles-based Shelli Herman and Associates has been called in by the Metropolitan Entertainment & Convention Authority (MECA) in Omaha, NE, to lead in its search for a new president and CEO. The authority is looking for a talented president and CEO to provide strong leadership and strategic guidance, building on its successful foundation as a
Shaping Leadership, One Search at a Time
The executive search sector draws professionals from a wide array of backgrounds, each with unique motivations for entering the field. For some, it’s the intellectual challenge and strategic nature of identifying transformative leadership that captivates them. Others are inspired by the opportunity to collaborate with a variety of organizations, ranging from nimble startups to global
Vetted Solutions Assists the American Clean Power Association with Chief Communications Officer Search
Washington, D.C.-based Vetted Solutions has placed Artealia Gilliard as the new chief communications officer of the American Clean Power Association (ACP) in Washington, D.C. “Clean energy is leading an all of the above American energy renaissance, but polarized politics remain an obstacle to achieving our economic and security interests,” said Jason Grumet, CEO of ACP. “Artealia has a strong
Long Ridge Partners Names Head of IT Recruiting
New York City-based Long Ridge Partners has appointed Lijo Thomas as managing director, head of IT recruiting. “Since joining us in 2021, Lijo has been a driving force behind our tech recruiting practice,” Long Ridge Partners said in a LinkedIn post. “Her leadership, insight, and dedication have made a real impact — and this next
Egon Zehnder Acquires The Prince Houston Group
Egon Zehnder has acquired The Prince Houston Group, a leading boutique executive search firm based in New York with a strong focus on asset and wealth management. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. Hunt Scanlon Ventures, based in Greenwich, Conn., served as an advisor to Egon Zehnder on the transaction. The integration of The Prince
Russell Reynolds Associates Assists Shatterproof with CEO Search
After a rigorous, six-month national search led by global leadership advisory firm Russell Reynolds Associates, Pam Jenkins has been appointed as CEO of Shatterproof, a national non-profit dedicated to reversing the addiction crisis in the U.S. She succeeds founder and CEO Gary Mendell, who launched Shatterproof in 2012 following the loss of his son to substance
Caldwell Recruits CEO for Radius Global Market Research
Raj Das and John Heilhecker of Toronto-headquartered Caldwell recently assisted in the recruitment of Rob Wengel as CEO of Radius Global Market Research in New York City. He succeeds managing director Chip Lister, who will remain on the Radius board of directors and continue to advise the company’s strategic initiatives. Mr. Wengel will lead the next chapter of
Uncovering Hidden Leadership Potential Before Your Competitors Do
As someone who’s been on both sides of the table as a CEO and a former executive recruiter Joe Riggione, founder and co-CEO of True, knows that finding the right leaders is crucial, whether your company is in rapid growth or simply needs to execute on a solid plan. “But exceptional leaders often don’t fit
JM Search Recruits CFO for Shamrock Foods
JM Search, a senior-level talent provider serving private equity investors, portfolio companies, and Fortune 1000s, has assisted in the recruitment of Kyle Bunstein as CFO of Shamrock Foods, a family-owned and operated manufacturer and distributor of quality food and food-related products. Phil Menzel and Matt Quinn led the assignment. Mr. Bunstein brings over 20 years of
Odgers Makes Leadership Changes in India
Odgers has announced a leadership transition for its India operations. Kaushik DasGupta, who leads the consumer, retail & media practice in Asia-Pacific, has been promoted to managing partner – India. Concurrently, Prasad Medury, who has led the India business for the past eight years, will continue to serve as chairman India. “I am delighted to announce
The Secret Ingredient for Transformational Leadership in a PE backed Environment
Private equity firms are under more pressure than ever to deliver returns in an increasingly crowded and high-stakes market. Amid this intensity, leadership quality has emerged as a critical lever for driving growth, mitigating risk, and maximizing value creation. In today’s competitive private equity landscape, where achieving a return on investment is challenging and the
Myers McRae Assists Bethune-Cookman University with President Search
Macon, GA-based Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting has helped to recruit Albert Mosley as the eighth president of Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU). Jennifer Barfield, executive vice president, led the assignment. After an intensive, carefully vetted process that garnered 135 applications from across the country, Bethune-Cookman University’s presidential search committee identified a select group of top candidates. Ultimately,
BroadView Talent Partners Seeking Chief Development Officer for Community Shelter Board
BroadView Talent Partners has been tapped by Community Shelter Board to help recruit a chief development officer. The firm is looking for a bold, mission-driven executive who transforms generosity into lasting impact. As the architect of Community Shelter Board’s philanthropic strategy, the CDO leads with vision, influence, and heart, mobilizing the resources, relationships, and culture that power
How Courage Shapes the Leaders of Tomorrow
What defines a great leader? Qualities like experience, intelligence, charisma, and authenticity often top the list—and with good reason, as each plays a meaningful role. But in a climate of constant change, executive search consultants say that one trait stands out: courage. It enables tough decisions, supports calculated risks, and drives the willingness to challenge legacy
Buffkin / Baker Recruits President for Pittsburg State University
Partner-led executive search firm Buffkin / Baker has assisted in the recruitment of Thomas Newsom as the 11th president of Pittsburg State University in Kansas. Partner Pelema Ellis led the assignment. “The Regents are excited to appoint Dr. Newsom as the next president of Pittsburg State,” said Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR) chair Carl Ice. “He is positioned to continue
Daversa Partners Appoints Managing Director
Daversa Partners, which helps build leadership teams for growth and venture-backed companies, has announced a strategic leadership expansion with the promotion of Brian Warager to managing director. Primarily working across B2B software, AI, and frontier technology, Mr. Warager focuses on placing executives in sales, marketing, customer success, and operations roles; at times building the full GTM leadership teams for his
EY Signals M&A Momentum Is Rebuilding
The June 2025 edition of EY’s Merger Monthly report presents a cautiously optimistic picture of the U.S. deal environment. According to Mitch Berlin, EY Americas vice chair, “M&A in the U.S. bounced back in May, buoyed by easing trade tensions that boosted deal momentum, including several large transactions.” While overall deal volume saw a 6.2 percent year-over-year decrease,
HTP Group Launches Leadership Consulting Practice
Hightech Partners (HTP Group) has launched its enhanced leadership consulting practice. This expanded offering equips organizations to address urgent leadership challenges, improve team dynamics, and prepare for digital and AI-driven change through tailored, high-impact solutions. “Today’s leadership challenges demand more than experience, they require insight, agility, and cohesive teams ready to adapt and innovate,” said Raffaele
Solomon Page Fills Senior Role for Echo Design Group
The fashion, beauty, and consumer products division of New York City headquartered executive search firm Solomon Page has assisted in the recruitment of Patrizia Ciccarelli as managing director of Echo Design Group. Managing director Sue Lamoreaux led the search, along with Julie Stern, vice president, using a highly consultative and customized strategy—aligning the process with specific goals of
Executive Hiring Tightens Across Healthcare IT and Life Sciences
In the evolving landscape of healthcare IT and life sciences, executive hiring is undergoing a transformation marked by elevated expectations and tighter scrutiny from private equity investors and growth-focused organizations. With an increased demand for leaders who not only bring a track record of successful exits but also embody a “player-coach mentality,” companies are seeking
Myers McRae Assists Florida A&M Recruit 13th President
Macon, GA-based Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting has assisted in the recruitment of Marva Johnson as the 13th president of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU). Her selection followed a thorough presidential search, which narrowed the field to four highly qualified finalists. Kenny Daugherty and Brianna Douglas led the assignment. “Congratulations to Marva Johnson on her confirmation as the







