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Buffkin / Baker Recruits Chief Information Security Officer for Oklahoma State University
Partner-led executive search firm Buffkin / Baker has helped to recruit Marjorie McLagan as chief information security officer (CISO) of Oklahoma State University. Martin M. Baker and Chelsie Whitelock led the assignment. “Cybersecurity is foundational to everything we do at Oklahoma State University,” said Jason Ramsey, chief operating officer. “As we advance research, serve students and support Extension programs in all 77 counties,
Allen Austin Appoints Partner
Houston, TX-based search firm Allen Austin has expanded with the addition of Nick McQuarry as a partner. “We are so excited to welcome Nick McQuarry back to the Allen Austin team as a partner,” the firm said in a LinkedIn post. “Nick’s career journey has come full circle—returning to the firm where it began, now with broader
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.
Streamlining the Hiring Process to Secure Top Talent
In a competitive hiring market, speed and preparation can often make the difference between securing a top candidate and losing them to another opportunity. With many professionals exploring new roles while remaining fully employed, organizations must balance thorough evaluation with an efficient and well-coordinated recruitment process. The most successful employers are those that approach hiring
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?
DHR Global Adds New Partner in Singapore
Talent advisory firm DHR Global has expanded with the addition of Veronique Denis-Pelliet as a partner in its technology and retail & consumer practices in Singapore. A seasoned executive with over 10 years of experience in executive search, ESG leadership, sales, and international business development, Ms. Denis-Pelliet has led multicultural teams and driven growth in Southeast Asia, China, Europe,
Assessing Business Development Talent Without Slowing the Hiring Process
Companies are placing greater emphasis on improving hiring accuracy as competition for high-performing talent intensifies across the market. Yet many organizations continue to rely on inconsistent interview practices, subjective evaluations, and selection processes that create unnecessary friction for both candidates and internal stakeholders. Most hiring failures do not happen because companies move too fast. They
Academic Search Recruits President for Henry Ford College
Academic Search has placed David M. Knezek as the seventh president of Henry Ford College. Shirley Robinson Pippins and Richard Cummins led the assignment. Mr. Knezek, currently serving as chief operating officer of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and as an elected Wayne County commissioner, will assume the presidency later this year, succeeding interim president Dr. Lori
Fabric.AI Taps Egon Zehnder for Critical Search
Global leadership advisory firm Egon Zehnder has been retained by NASDAQ-traded AI infrastructure company Fabric.AI to lead the search for a senior project management executive. “Egon Zehnder’s reputation, global reach, and deep expertise across AI, advanced technologies, and organizational leadership make them an ideal partner for Fabric.AI at this stage of our growth,” said Josh Silverman, CEO of
Caldwell Expands in London and Madrid
Toronto-based Caldwell has expanded with the addition of Alex Langridge as a partner in the firm’s financial services practice. Based in London, Mr. Langridge advises clients across financial services and fintech on senior executive and board appointments, succession planning, organizational design, and transformational leadership hiring. “Alex’s appointment reflects our continued investment in expanding Caldwell’s financial
Fama Technologies Granted U.S. Patent on Foundational AI-Powered Social Media Screening Technology
Fama Technologies, providers of AI-powered online screening, has announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has allowed all claims in its patent application covering the foundational technology behind social media background screening. The patent, titled “System for Searching and Correlating Online Activity with Individual Classification Factors,” has a priority date of November
Updating How You Work So AI Can Actually Deliver
AI adoption is no longer a technology challenge, it is an operational one. Companies that generate lasting value from AI will be the ones willing to redesign workflows, redefine leadership responsibilities, and embed AI directly into how work gets done every day. Most companies will not fail at AI because they chose the wrong model,
Vetted Solutions Assists CoreNet Global with CEO Search
Following an extensive search process, Washington, D.C.-based Vetted Solutions has assisted in the recruitment of Vicki Worden as the new CEO of CoreNet Global. “Vicki Worden demonstrates exemplary leadership through her collaborative approach,” said Jamie Leary-Erickson, CoreNet Global board chair. “Vicki’s extensive experience in the architecture, engineering, and commercial real estate sectors, combined with her global perspective
BarkerGilmore Places Head of Legal at Vantage Elevator Solutions
Boutique search firm BarkerGilmore, which specializes in building corporate legal and compliance teams, has placed Keinan Meginniss as VP, head of legal at Vantage Elevator Solutions. The search was led by Stephen Bell and Alison Waters. “Keinan joins the organization at an exciting time as the company continues to expand its operations and strengthen its leadership team
NGS Global Adds TalentXera
Wilmington, DE-headquartered executive search firm NGS Global has added Saúl Almendárez and his team at TalentXera. This expands the firm’s capabilities across Mexico and the broader Latin America region. Mr. Almendárez is based in Mexico City, where he has spent more than 20 years building an exceptional team and a highly regarded brand in the executive search industry. Along
IMD International Search Group Elects New Board Members
Global executive search consortium IMD International Search Group recently had delegates from member firms meet in Helsinki, Finland, and announced the election of several board members. Ben Tucker (Minerva, IMD U.K.) transitions from director to VP finance and legal. Eva Nielsen (Lisberg, IMD Sweden) is reelected for a second mandate as director while Terhi Heikkinen (IMS Talent,
Hunt Scanlon and HSiQ Launch Recruiter Performance Training Program
The executive search industry has a training challenge. For years, recruiting firms have depended on apprenticeship-style development, learning through observation, informal mentoring, and varying management approaches. That model works for some, but it does not scale effectively. In a market increasingly shaped by AI, speed, precision, and commercial demands, inconsistent recruiter performance is no longer
Executive Search Firms Confront the AI Transformation
As AI rapidly reshapes the executive search landscape, recruiting firms are facing growing pressure to modernize how they identify, assess, and engage leadership talent. Industry experts say AI-driven sourcing, predictive analytics, and automation tools are helping firms accelerate search timelines and expand candidate reach, while also forcing recruiters to rethink where their true value lies.
Cooper Coleman Recruits CFO the Center for Child Protection
Cooper Coleman LLC has placed William Wade as chief financial officer of the Center for Child Protection (CCP) in Austin, TX. The national search was led by Johnny Cooper, founder and CEO of Cooper Coleman. “Dion brings the kind of strategic thinking and mission alignment CCP needs in its CFO,” said Mr. Cooper. “They are doing remarkable work,
Boyden Assists Kerry’s Place Autism Services with CEO Search
Boyden has recruited Normandie Wragg as the new president and CEO of Kerry’s Place Autism Services in Ontario. The appointment follows the previously announced retirement of CEO Susan VanDeVelde-Coke at the end of June. The search was led by partners Jim Stonehouse and Pamela Colquhoun, and Kathy Luu, senior associate. “Normandie is a highly accomplished, values-driven
Modern Executive Solutions Expands Technology Practice
Atlanta-based talent consultancy Modern Executive Solutions has expanded with the addition of Moises Velilla as managing director in its technology practice. He brings deep experience advising organizations on senior leadership hiring and talent strategy across technology and transformation. Mr. Velilla specializes in advising clients on executive talent strategy and recruiting transformative technology and professional services leaders. He
AI’s Next Test: Can It Actually Drive Growth?
A massive opportunity, and a critical trust gap, is emerging among corporate leaders. According to EY-Parthenon’s Growth Survey of 271 U.S. executives, 78 percent believe AI will accelerate growth, even as nearly 80 percent say the growth environment has become more challenging over the past year. Yet only about a third trust AI inputs for high-stakes decisions such
Retained vs. Contingent Search: Choosing the Right Executive Search Model
As companies navigate increasingly complex leadership challenges, the pressure to make the right executive hiring decision has never been greater. Boards and leadership teams are looking beyond resumes and credentials, placing greater emphasis on cultural alignment, long-term business impact, and a candidate’s ability to guide organizations through growth, transformation, and uncertainty. At the same time,
Brettschneider Executive Search Completes Search for Western Colorado University
New York City-based Brettschneider Executive Search recently assisted in the recruitment of Sharoni Little as dean of Western Colorado University’s School of Business. “Dr. Little’s forward-thinking approach will help shape the future of business education at Western, creating opportunities for students to thrive in today’s competitive economy,” said Brad Baca, president. With a career spanning academia, corporate leadership,
Ren Systems Appoints Head of Product
Ren Systems, an AI-powered relationship intelligence platform used by sales, business development, and professional services leaders, recently expanded with the addition of Nick Wynja as head of product. “As we’ve scaled Ren to 70+ enterprise customers and accelerated our feature release cycle, it became clear that we needed focused product leadership,” the company said in
How to Kick Off an Executive Search the Right Way
As leadership demands grow more complex, organizations are increasingly recognizing that a successful executive search begins long before candidate outreach or interviews take place. Search consultants say the strongest outcomes are driven by early alignment around business strategy, organizational culture, leadership expectations, and the capabilities needed to support future growth. Rather than simply filling an
Why Structured Interviews Lead to Better Hiring
As organizations compete for leadership talent, many are reexamining how executive interviews are conducted and whether traditional hiring instincts are leading to the best decisions. Increasingly, research is showing that structured interviews built around standardized questions and evaluation criteria deliver more reliable hiring outcomes than conversational, free-flowing assessments. Talent experts say the approach not only
Rethinking Career Loyalty in the Age of Gen Z and Millennials
As leadership priorities continue to evolve, executive search firms are seeing a growing shift in how candidates evaluate long-term career opportunities. Today’s professionals are placing greater emphasis on purpose, culture, mentorship, flexibility, and personal growth alongside compensation and title. Recruiters say organizations that can clearly communicate vision, invest in employee development, and foster strong leadership
Coulter Partners Recruits Chief Scientific Officer for Laigo Bio
Life sciences recruiting specialist Coulter Partners has recruited Richard C.A. Sainson as the new chief scientific officer of Laigo Bio. “It was a privilege to partner with Matthew and the Laigo board,” said Kay Wardle, managing partner at Coulter Partners. “Targeted protein degradation is one of the most exciting frontier areas of drug discovery, and finding a chief
Blue Rock Human Capital Recruits Chief People Officer for Michelli Weighing & Measurement
Talent acquisition strategies at many large companies have become as complex as their balance sheets. And while chief human resource officers play a vital role in overseeing an organization’s broad-based workforce, the chief people officer typically goes beyond overseeing its people policies. The focus instead is on building talent as a key competitive advantage, with more
Rising Demand for Data Expertise Forces Shift in Talent Strategy
In recent years, data has become business’s most valuable resource. Data analytics is no longer just an IT function, according to a recent report from 180 Engineering. It has become critical to a company’s ability to innovate, optimize operations, and respond to shifting market demands. “However, as business leaders become increasingly aware of the importance of
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
Essenta Names Partner
London-headquartered Essenta Partners has expanded with the addition of James Kenyon as a partner. “James brings with him more than a decade of international consulting and leadership advisory experience, with a strong focus on the private equity sector,” said James Howells, founder and CEO of Essenta. “He has a well-established track record of working with
The AI Imperative: What HR Leaders Must Do to Drive Transformation
AI is reshaping organizations, industries, and functions, and human resources is no exception. HR leaders find themselves at the center of the AI capability gap; they must not only ensure that the workforce adopts AI across their organization but also upskill themselves and drive the AI enablement of the HR function, according to a new
