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Onboarding Executives for Non-Traditional Roles
As organizations confront increasingly complex challenges, leadership requirements are evolving beyond traditional industry boundaries. Companies are beginning to recognize that experience alone may not be the best predictor of success in roles that demand fresh thinking and adaptability. In response, many are exploring talent from adjacent sectors to bring new perspectives and capabilities into critical
Occam Global Recruits CEO for Aura Biosciences
New York City-based executive search firm Occam Global has recruited Natalie Holles as CEO of NASDAQ-traded Aura Biosciences in Boston, MA. She succeeds Elisabet de los Pinos, the company’s founder, who stepped down from her roles as CEO and president and member of the board of directors on the same date. “We are delighted to welcome Natalie as CEO
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.
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
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?
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
Raising the Bar for Interim and Fractional Leadership
As companies face mounting pressure to move faster and adapt to constant change, interim and fractional executives are increasingly being brought in not simply to maintain stability, but to drive transformation from day one. Organizations today are seeking experienced leaders who can step into critical roles, solve immediate business challenges, and create momentum while long-term
BoardWalk Consulting Selected by Atlanta Ballet for Executive Director Search
BoardWalk Consulting has was recently tapped by Atlanta Ballet to lead in its search for an executive director. The search is being led by Sam Pettway, Demeika Wheaton, and Patti Kish. The executive director will lead Atlanta Ballet’s administrative and business functions in alignment with the organization’s mission and values, while partnering closely with the artistic
When Search Fatigue Leads to Costly Hiring Mistakes
In executive search, the biggest hiring mistakes are not always caused by weak candidate pools or poor sourcing strategies. More often, breakdowns occur near the finish line, when prolonged interview cycles, competing stakeholder opinions, and mounting business pressures begin to wear down decision-making discipline. What starts as a rigorous evaluation process can gradually shift toward
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
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.
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
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.
Tower Consultants Search Completes Search for Laureate Education
Hobe Sound, FL-headquartered executive recruiting firm Tower Consultants Search Group has assisted in the recruitment of Adam Kahle as head of compensation at Laureate Education, Inc., a global leader in higher education. The search was led by Chris Rose, Jason Rose, and Kim Klipstein. This strategic placement represents a successful collaboration between Tower Consultants and Laureate Education, highlighting Tower’s expertise
ON Partners Expands Search Staff
ON Partners recently expanded with the addition of Cher Murphy as its newest partner. “From executive search consultant to chief people officer to entrepreneur and back again, we are the lucky recipients of Cher’s return to her roots in a field that she has been pioneering for more than 15 years,” said Bryan Buck, managing
Ehave Acquires AI Interview Platform AIHeadHunter
Ehave, Inc. has acquired AIHeadHunter, an artificial intelligence-powered recruitment platform, through an asset purchase agreement. The transaction marks a significant step in Ehave’s strategic shift toward becoming a developer and operator of applied AI solutions. Under the terms of the agreement, Ehave acquired the assets of AIHeadHunter from Klizo Ventures Inc. The acquired assets include proprietary
Private Equity’s Resurgent Interest in Education: Key Trends for 2025
Following a phase of cautious investment, private equity firms have rekindled their interest in the education sector in 2025, adopting focused strategies and prioritizing long-term value generation. Education, it turns out, is a fantastic investment, and not just for the bright-eyed, ambitious youth but also for savvy investors, according to a recent report from ECA
Unemployment Rate Holds Steady at 4.2 Percent
Employment rose by 139,000 in May as the U.S. unemployment was unchanged at 4.2 percent, according to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report. Employment continued to trend up in healthcare, leisure and hospitality, and social assistance. Federal government continued to lose jobs. The number of unemployed people, at 7.2 million, changed little over
Leading Through Uncertain Times
If you had to pick one adjective to describe all that is happening in the world right now, there is a strong chance – if not a high certainty – that you would pick the word uncertainty, says Tim Gardner of Teamalytics in a new report. “The stock market is volatile and, as a result, is uncertain,” Mr. Gardner said. “Restructuring
Korn Ferry Retained by Orbis International for CEO Search
Korn Ferry was recently retained by Orbis International to lead in its search for a new president and CEO. This executive is responsible for providing vision, inspiration, and leadership to ensure the organization innovates and continues to deliver impactful programs and services to meet the needs of our global community and fulfil our mission. In collaboration
Arts Consulting Group Finds New Leader for the San Francisco Jazz Organization
Following an extensive nationwide search, Boston-based search firm Arts Consulting Group (ACG) has placed Gabrielle Armand as the new CEO of the San Francisco Jazz Organization (SFJAZZ). She will succeed Susie Medak, who has served as interim CEO since December 2024. Vice presidents Geoff Chang and Josyanne Roche led the assignment. In partnership with executive artistic director Terence Blanchard, Ms. Armand will lead the dynamic
Buffkin / Baker Assists Fort Lewis College with the Recruitment of 11th President
Partner-led executive search firm Buffkin / Baker has assisted in the recruitment of Heather J. Shotton as the 11th president of Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO. Partner Ann Yates and associate partner Pelema Ellis led the assignment. After a six-month search, the presidential search committee chose Dr. Shotton from more than 75 applicants. “Dr. Shotton brings a wealth of experience and a deep
Kirk Palmer Associates Recruits CFO for Fossil Group
Retail-focused executive search firm Kirk Palmer Associates has placed Randy Greben as chief financial officer of Fossil Group. The search was led by Kyle Rudy, Karen Ouchterloney, and Kerry Scott. He replaces Andrew Skobe, interim CFO. The appointment reinforces Fossil Group’s continued commitment to building its leadership team to drive long-term profitable growth. “We are thrilled to welcome
Wilson Appoints CFO
Global talent solutions provider Wilson Human Capital Group (Wilson) has named Audrey Lara as its new CFO. “We’re thrilled to have Audrey on board,” said John Wilson, CEO of Wilson. “Her knack for driving financial and operational excellence, coupled with her ability to build inclusive, high-performing teams, will be key as we continue to grow and innovate. Audrey’s strategic mindset
The Culture Edge: Driving Enterprise Performance
As businesses navigate constant change, the influence of corporate culture on organizational success is unmistakable. Companies are increasingly aware that a vibrant, adaptable culture is more than a “nice-to-have”—it’s a critical driver of employee engagement, retention, and overall performance. Recent findings reveal that 89 percent of highly engaged employees recognize their organization’s culture as a positive
Effective Strategies for Scaling Middle Management in PE-Backed Companies
When private equity firms invest in a company, their first order of business is often to secure the right CEO—and sometimes a CFO—to drive the value creation plan. But what comes next is equally critical and far too often overlooked: scaling middle management, according to a recent report from Denver, CO-based TriSearch. “Without the right VPs,
The Christopher Group Recruits CHRO for Belt Power
The Christopher Group (TCG), a boutique HR executive search and business solutions recruiting firm, has assisted in the recruitment of Jessica Johnston as the new chief human resources officer of Belt Power in Marietta, GA. Pam Noble led the assignment along with Morgan Booker. “Jessica is a powerhouse HR leader who brings the strategic mindset and operational discipline needed
BroadView Talent Partners Recruits CEO for Avesta Housing
BroadView Talent Partners has helped to recruit Jennifer Hawkins as the new president and CEO of Avesta Housing in Portland, ME. The assignment was led by Tracy McMillan, Melania DaSilva Deaver, Donna Young, Robyn Quinn, and Elizabeth Keyser. “Jennifer’s leadership is defined by innovation, strategic vision, and a powerful dedication to meeting community needs through affordable housing and housing
Trinity Bridge Expands to Germany
U.K.-based executive search firm Trinity Bridge has expanded into Germany with the appointment of Stephanie Watzek as managing director for the region to support its continued growth in Central Europe. Launched in the U.K. in 2022 by Sam Seigler, Trinity Bridge was inspired by Mr. Siegler’s vision to build an executive search firm with deep-rooted sector
New 2025 Report Highlights Tech Executive Pay Trends
Executive compensation goes beyond negotiation—it’s a strategic tool for driving growth, retaining talent, and maintaining a competitive edge. Understanding your executives’ value can be the key to securing top talent instead of losing them to rivals. Riviera Partners’ 2025 Executive Compensation Report, exclusively available to Riviera’s client and partner network, offers valuable insights into the
Why Your Work Won’t Speak for Itself in a Hybrid World
A hybrid or remote-first work environment prioritizes flexibility by allowing employees to work from various locations, often combining home and office settings. This model supports better work-life balance and can lead to increased productivity and employee satisfaction. It also enables companies to access a broader talent pool unconstrained by geographic limitations. However, in a hybrid
ExecSearches Assists PKD-Free Alliance with Chief Implementation and Operations Officer Search
ExecSearches has assisted in the recruitment of Kevin Schnurr as the first chief implementation and operations officer (CIOO) of PKD-Free Alliance, a non-profit dedicated to generational health and a PKD-free future. F. Jay Hall, managing director, and Karen Alphonse, senior search solutions leader, led the executive recruitment process. “May 2025 marks 11 years since I donated a
Preng & Associates Assists Jadestone Energy with CEO Search
Houston-based Preng & Associates has helped to recruit Mitchell Little as the new CEO of Jadestone Energy in Singapore. “We are very pleased that Mitch is joining Jadestone as CEO,” said Adel Chaouch, executive chairman of Jadestone. “He brings significant upstream operational and management experience from over three decades in the oil and gas industry with Marathon. His
True Expands Non-Profit & Social Impact Practice
Global talent provider True has expanded its non-profit & social impact practice with the strategic addition of Gautam Raghavan. An accomplished public servant and talent strategist, Mr. Raghavan most recently served as director of the White House Office of presidential personnel under the Biden-Harris administration. “Gautam is intimately familiar with public service, which gives him a unique understanding of the challenges
Rethinking Talent For Every Phase Of The PE Lifecycle
Private equity is entering a phase where ‘one-size-fits-all’ leadership is no longer viable. As deal timelines stretch and growth becomes harder to manufacture, firms are looking to build executive teams that can evolve alongside the business. “Talent strategies must be adaptable to a changing economic climate and the ever-evolving business needs,” said Ellie O’Brien Coleman,
Academic Career & Executive Search Recruits CEO for CHESS (Collaborative for Higher Education Shared Services)
Following a national search, Academic Career & Executive Search (ACES) has placed Shaun McAlmont as CEO of CHESS (Collaborative for Higher Education Shared Services). He will succeed founding CEO Kathy Ulibarri, who will retire after guiding CHESS from its formation in 2021 to its emergence as a national model for shared services in higher education. Jennifer
Coulter Partners Places Biotech Entrepreneur as CEO of Nuage Therapeutics
Life sciences recruiting specialist Coulter Partners has assisted in the recruitment of Stuart Hughes as CEO of Nuage Therapeutics. “Coulter Partners has been an invaluable partner in this crucial appointment for Nuage Therapeutics,” said Vanessa Malier, chair of the board of directors of Nuage Therapeutics. “Their team demonstrated exceptional dedication and a truly collaborative spirit, working closely
Diversified Search Group (DSG Global) | Koya Partners Leading Executive Director Search for the John Paul Stevens Foundation
Diversified Search Group (DSG Global) | Koya Partners was recently retained by the John Paul Stevens Foundation to lead in its search for a new executive director. Molly Brennan, global managing partner and non-profit and social impact practice leader, and Gina Wrolstad Kueber, senior associate, are leading the assignment. This is an exciting opportunity help guide the foundation
AltoPartners Elects New Global Chair
AltoPartners, an international alliance of boutique executive search and leadership consulting firms, has appointed Santiago Solis Arias as new global chair. He becomes the first global chair from the Americas, marking a new chapter for the global executive search partnership. Mr. Solis Arias succeeds Sonal Agrawal, who has served with distinction and led the partnership through
