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Daily Newswire
The Execution Gap in AI Is Becoming Private Equity’s Defining Divide
Multimodal’s latest report, The State of Agentic AI in Private Equity, highlights a critical inflection point. While AI adoption is widespread across the industry, very few firms have translated that activity into sustained operational impact. Nearly two-thirds of private equity firms are actively piloting AI, and roughly 40 percent report having formal strategies in place. Yet only
Russell Reynolds Associates Recruits President and CEO of Cara Collective
Global leadership advisory firm Russell Reynolds Associates has assisted in the recruitment of Karin Norington-Reaves as president and CEO of Cara Collective in Chicago. “This is a defining moment for Cara Collective,” said J. Todd Phillips, chair of Cara Collective’s board of directors. “Karin was selected from a national search conducted by a special committee of the Cara
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
Human Capital Enters a New Operating Era
Deloitte’s latest 2026 Global Human Capital Trends report makes one point clear: organizations are moving beyond traditional workforce models toward more fluid, capability-driven systems. Work is increasingly decomposed into tasks, projects, and outcomes rather than fixed roles, forcing companies to rethink how talent is structured and deployed. At the same time, leaders are balancing two competing forces.
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
The Future of Healthcare Leadership: AI, Innovation & Talent
The healthcare and life sciences industries are undergoing a major transformation, driven by advancements in AI, machine learning, and digital innovation. These technologies are reshaping drug discovery, patient care, and operational efficiency, requiring leaders who can harness innovation while optimizing complex systems. As competition for top talent intensifies, organizations are prioritizing executives with strong business
How Good is Your Company at Hiring?
Most companies recognize that talent is essential to success, and that being highly effective at hiring is one of the most vital skills for any organization and its leaders. Yet, hiring remains one of the weakest areas within many companies. A breakdown occurs in the interface between the people who are tasked with recruiting and
Peña Search Recruits CFO for Visit Dallas
Peña Search has assisted in the recruitment of Kathie Parsons as the new CFO of Visit Dallas. Travis Hillier and Cindy Maloney led the assignment. “Kathie brings to our organization a superb financial track record of transparency, accountability and collaboration,” said Craig Davis, president and CEO of Visit Dallas. “Her experience and strategic vision will be invaluable as we continue
Pender & Howe Tapped by Covenant Health for COO Search
Toronto-based Pender & Howe Executive Search has been retained to lead the search for a chief operating officer, acute & primary care for Covenant Health. The search is being spearheaded by managing principal Glenn Lesko. The COO at Covenant Health will play a pivotal role in shaping the delivery of acute and primary health services within
IIC Partners Adds New Member Firm in Greece
IIC Partners Executive Search Worldwide has added Athens, Greece-based Searchlight Partners as its newest member firm. “We are delighted to welcome Searchlight Partners into membership,” said Christine Hayward, executive director of IIC Partners. “They bring deep expertise in executive search and people strategy, and a solid track record in the technology, professional services, and life sciences
Hudson Global and Star Equity Holdings Join Forces
Star Equity Holdings (Star) and Hudson Global, a global total talent solutions provider operating under the brand name Hudson RPO, have inked a definitive merger agreement. Pursuant to the merger, Star will merge with and into a wholly owned subsidiary of Hudson to form “NewCo”. “We are pleased to announce the signing of this merger
Newland Associates Recruits CEO for Hope & Help
Lake Mary, FL-based executive search firm Newland Associates has assisted with the recruitment of Thresa Giles as the new CEO of Hope & Help in Winter Park, FL. Vanessa Abreu, director of recruiting, led the assignment. “We’re honored to share these kind words from Thresa Giles, CEO of Hope & Help, about her experience working with
