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Bespoke Partners Expands Go-To-Market Practice
San Diego, CA-headquartered Bespoke Partners has expanded with the addition of Alyssa Berardi as a partner in the go-to-market practice. “Alyssa’s combination of executive search experience and data-driven insight makes her an exceptional addition to the Bespoke team,” said Tess Fischer, partner and practice lead of Bespoke Partners’ go-to-market practice. “She brings a modern, data-informed perspective to go-to-market
Middle Market Momentum Meets a Talent Bottleneck
PitchBook’s latest report, 2025 Annual US PE Middle Market Report, highlights a market that is stabilizing but not yet fully normalized. Deal activity rebounded in 2025, with value rising 8.5 percent year-over-year to $410.7 billion across more than 4,000 transactions, supported by improving sentiment and a more accommodative financing environment. The recovery, however, is uneven. Deal sizes
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 Keys to Hiring AI Advisory Partners
The idea that software has reshaped every industry is no longer a bold prediction—it’s a baseline assumption, and now artificial intelligence is accelerating that shift even further. A new report from CipherStone Partners’ Robin Abraham and Joel Richard asks: What does today’s ground-shifting moment mean for those advising the world’s top business and political leaders
DHR Global Assists Miami City Ballet with Artistic Director Search
Talent advisory firm DHR Global has assisted in the recruitment of Gonzalo Garcia as the new artistic director of the Miami City Ballet. The search was led by Philip DeBoer, partner. “As to be expected for a company with the illustrious artistic reputation of Miami City Ballet, we received tremendous interest in the opportunity from around the
Hiring the Right Executive vs the Best Executive
In today’s dynamic business environment, leadership success is not solely defined by accolades or pedigree, but by fit, adaptability, and alignment with organizational values. Companies increasingly recognize that choosing an executive who understands and complements their unique culture, structure, and goals often yields far better results than opting for the most high-profile candidate on paper.
Western Colorado University Retains AGB Search for Senior Assignment
Washington, D.C.-based recruitment firm AGB Search, which specializes in higher education leadership assignments, has been selected by Western Colorado University to lead in its search for vice president of advancement and executive director of the WCU Foundation. This unique opportunity allows a seasoned advancement executive to build on the momentum created from the highly successful Elevate Western Campaign.
Herbert Mines Associates Recruits Top HR Executive for PacSun
New York-based retail and consumer focused executive search firm Herbert Mines Associates has helped to recruit Rachel Donahue as vice president of human resources at PacSun. “Rachel brings a wealth of experience in talent strategy, culture-building, and leadership development—and a clear passion for creating environments where people can thrive,” said Brieane Olson, CEO of PacSun. “Her thoughtful, people-first
Boyden Elects Chair; Adds New Board Members
Boyden has re-elected Kathleen Dunton as chair of the board of directors, reaffirming her leadership and vision for the firm’s future. In addition to continuing her role as chair, she has also been re-elected to serve as an at-large board member for a third consecutive term. Ms. Dunton brings nearly 30 years of experience in executive search and
From Search to Strategy: Redefining Talent Through Intelligence
Talent intelligence is a custom tool for this age of uncertainty. Its power lies in being driven by data, not in hunches. Mattson & Company/GMiQ’s engagements with clients invariably immerse the firm in their strategic ambitions—often in great detail. “A traditional search engagement, for instance, is more than just a process of finding talent; it involves
Buffkin / Baker Recruits General Counsel for Shearwater Health
Legal recruiting continues to be a hot area for search firms. Lawyers employed by government agencies in particular have been on the move as a result of changes in government administrations, according to Hunt Scanlon Media. Demand for legal work is expected to be robust as individuals, businesses and all levels of government require legal services in
SearchWide Global Recruits CEO for Finger Lakes Visitors Connection
Executive recruitment firm SearchWide Global has assisted in the recruitment of Alicia M. Quinn as president and CEO of Finger Lakes Visitors Connection (FLVC). She will succeed Valerie Knoblauch, who is retiring after 40 years of leadership and service to the region. Nicole Newman, global head of destinations, led the assignment. “We are thrilled to welcome Alicia
PierceGray Tapped by Epika Fleet Services for Senior Search
PierceGray was recently retained by Epika Fleet Services to lead in its search for its first head of organic growth. This executive will have accountability for building and executing upon the organization’s organic growth plan. The ideal candidate will possess leadership experience in a distributed field services environment of similar scale and complexity as well as
JM Search Expands Healthcare & Life Sciences Practice
JM Search, a senior-level talent provider serving private equity investors, portfolio companies, and Fortune 1000s, has continued expansion of its healthcare & life sciences practice with the addition of three accomplished executive search professionals: Kristy Lindquist as partner and practice leader, and Sarah Conway and Johanna Neuman as principals. Ms. Lindquist brings over 10 years of executive search
How AlixPartners and Endava Are Redefining Transformation
AlixPartners and Endava have announced a global strategic partnership that will combine operational consulting expertise with next-generation technology delivery. The alliance positions the two firms to tackle complex transformation challenges across industries like private equity, financial services, energy, and telecom, where clients increasingly demand faster, integrated solutions. “Digital innovation, AI and automation are the biggest disruptive
Considering a Counteroffer? Here’s Why You Should Reconsider
Over the past nearly two decades in executive search within the life sciences and healthcare industries, Leslie Loveless, co-CEO of Slone Partners, has seen firsthand the excitement that accompanies a new career opportunity. She has also seen how quickly that momentum can shift when an executive, poised to make a bold career move, suddenly chooses
Spencer Stuart Recruits CEO for the Philadelphia Fed
Spencer Stuart has placed Anna Paulson as the 12th president and CEO of the Philadelphia Fed. She succeeds Patrick T. Harker. “Anna Paulson’s economics and monetary policy expertise, as well as her leadership at the Chicago Fed and throughout the Federal Reserve System, make her the ideal person to serve as president of the Federal
Greenwood Asher & Associates Seeking New President for Hampshire College
Miramar Beach, FL-based executive recruitment firm Greenwood Asher & Associates was recently retained by Hampshire College in Amherst, MA, to lead in its search for new president. The search is being led by Jim Johnsen and Lauren McCaghren. Hampshire is seeking a president who believes deeply in the college’s founding vision and who will embrace those principles to chart a
IMD International Search Group Adds New Board Members
Global executive search consortium IMD International Search Group recently had delegates from member firms meet in Park City, UT, and announced the election of several board members. “Congratulations to all – IMD members fully support the new IMD board of directors,” the consortium said. Jose Ruiz (Alder Koten, IMD Mexico and USA) was elected chairman of the
Inside a Model CEO Transition
The transition of a CEO in non-profit organizations should ideally resemble the precision and coordination of a relay race. Just as runners synchronize their movements for a seamless baton handoff, non-profit boards, outgoing leaders, and incoming CEOs must work in tandem to ensure a smooth transition. A successful handoff requires timing, trust, and preparation –
Transferable Skills That Are in Demand
When embarking on a job search or considering a career shift, your transferable skills—those versatile capabilities gained across various roles and industries—can serve as your most powerful advantage. These skills demonstrate your adaptability and potential to thrive in new environments, even if your experience doesn’t align perfectly with a specific job description. But what exactly
Pender & Howe Called in by the Women’s Enterprise Organizations of Canada to Find New Leader
Toronto-based Pender & Howe Executive Search has been called in by the Women’s Enterprise Organizations of Canada (WEOC) to lead in its search for a new CEO. Michelle Moore and Sean Casey are leading the assignment. “This is a pivotal moment in WEOC’s journey,” said Shauna Harper, CEO of WeBC and board chair of WEOC. “With
McDermott + Bull Expands Presence in Texas
Irvine, CA-based McDermott + Bull has continued expansion of its presence in Texas with director Rachel Loye spearheading the growth in Dallas. As a senior member of the firm’s financial services practice, she will lead regional efforts across Texas, deepening client partnerships and furthering McDermott + Bull’s investment in one of the country’s top banking markets. “Rachel’s
Five Years Later: How the Shutdown Redefined Business and Leadership
Five years ago this week, the world came to a sudden halt. In March 2020 marked the beginning of a global shutdown that reshaped business, leadership, and the way companies operate. “At Z3Talent, everything came to a standstill,” Steve Ziegler, founder of the Denver-based executive search firm, remembers. Were companies going to keep hiring? Would the
The Moran Company Selected by the Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association to Find New Leader
The Moran Company, an executive recruitment firm that specializes in the non-profit sector, has been retained by the Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association (LAFRA) to lead in its search for a new executive director. Senior search consultant John Gravley is leading the assignment. The executive director is the chief administrative leader of LAFRA, responsible for
LHH Knightsbridge Recruits Chief Investment Officer for the Ontario Pension Board
LHH Knightsbridge has assisted in the recruitment of Andrew Tambone as chief investment officer of the Ontario Pension Board (OPB). This search was conducted by Lisa Knight, managing partner, Nicholas Protti, executive search partner, and Melanie Barbieri, senior consultant. His appointment follows the upcoming retirement of current CIO, Chris Kautzky. As CIO, Mr. Tambone will be
Daversa Partners Appoints Partner
Daversa Partners, which helps build leadership teams for growth and venture-backed companies, has named Kenny Denton as partner. “As the lead partner helping early stage companies and founders find catalytic GTM talent, the firmed noted that Mr. Denton has proven himself as one of the sharpest and most effective talent strategists in the business,” Daversa Partners said. “Kenny
Talentor International Adds Ellwood Consulting in Singapore and Malaysia
Executive search consortium Talentor International has added Ellwood Consulting its new partner, representing Talentor in Singapore and Malaysia. “This strategic partnership strengthens our footprint in Southeast Asia—one of the world’s most dynamic and fast-evolving regions—allowing us to better serve our global clients and talented professionals on the ground,” the consortium said. With headquarters in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, Ellwood Consulting brings
How Family Businesses Can Attract Top Leaders While Retaining Their Culture
As family businesses scale, they often encounter unfamiliar territory: entering international markets, building e-commerce infrastructure, modernizing supply chains, or responding to changing generational preferences. In such scenarios, relying solely on internal leadership or legacy practices may not suffice. Experienced external leaders can provide the necessary perspective and capabilities to lead transformational initiatives—without undermining the company’s
The Burnout Recession: Why Talent Will Quit Before the Market Does
Organizations across the globe are experiencing this rising trend of high performers exiting their stable jobs due to invisible fatigue, according to a recent report from The Taplow Group. “The burnout recession is real and the real business risk isn’t just economic, it’s emotional and cultural upheaval within your organization,” the study said. And do you
Myers McRae Recruits President for Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College
Macon, GA-based Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting has assisted in the recruitment of Michelle Trawick as the new president of Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College. She will officially assume the role July 31. “We are so pleased to welcome Dr. Trawick back to Kentucky,” said Ryan Quarles, president of the Kentucky Community and Technical
Furst Group Recruits CEO for Point32Health
Executive recruitment firm Furst Group, which serves the healthcare and insurance industries, has helped to recruit Patrick Gilligan as the new CEO of Point32Health, the parent company of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and Tufts Health Plan in Canton, MA. “It was a privilege to partner with the board at Point32Health in their CEO search,” Furst Group said
Riviera Partners Grows Public Practice
San Francisco-based Riviera Partners, a recruitment provider specializing in C-level engineering, product, and design leader placements, has expanded with the addition of Will Potter as a managing partner, where he will help lead the firm’s public practice, working with enterprise and public companies to build world-class technology leadership teams. “We’re thrilled to welcome Will back to
Five Talent Trends in Private Equity
Private equity firms are increasingly recognizing that human capital is a critical lever for value creation—on par with strategy, operations, and finance. As competition intensifies and hold periods lengthen, more firms are investing in sophisticated talent strategies across the deal life cycle. Research from Spencer Stuart highlights five emerging talent trends that are shaping how
NU Advisory Partners Completes Searches for Mission Lane and Insigneo
NU Advisory Partners has recently placed Chris Bishko as chief financial officer of Mission Lane and Paul Caulfield as chief compliance officer of Insigneo. Mr. Bishko’s previous roles include general partner at Core Innovation Capital, CFO at Everly Health and Tubi, and CFO at Credible, where he played a key role during significant financial milestones.
