DAILY NEWSWIRE - TOP STORIES
Daily Newswire
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
Winning the Mandate in the New Era of Business Development
As competition intensifies across the executive search landscape, firms are rethinking how they originate and win new business. Success is increasingly tied to a more disciplined, insight-driven approach that goes beyond traditional networking and relationship management. In this environment, firms that combine data, technology, and market intelligence with strong client engagement are setting a new
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.
HR Leaders Take Center Stage as Companies Push to Scale AI Across the Enterprise
Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping how organizations operate, forcing leadership teams to rethink not only technology strategy, but how work itself is structured, delivered, and scaled. As adoption accelerates, companies are moving beyond early experimentation and pilot programs, with growing pressure to translate AI investment into measurable business outcomes. What was once a forward-looking initiative
TurnkeyZRG Recruits Director of Athletics for the University of Maryland
TurnkeyZRG has assisted in the recruitment of James Smith as its new Barry P. Gossett director of athletics for the University of Maryland. “We are proud of the athletics tradition here at the University of Maryland and of the accomplishments of our coaches and student-athletes who represent the red, black, white and gold,” said Darryll J.
The Energists Fills Senior Position with Al-Rashed Group
Houston-based The Energists has helped Al-Rashed Group to recruit Andy Hendry to the role of managing director of the Oil & Gas Business, a cornerstone division within one of Kuwait’s most well-established diversified private enterprises. The search team comprised Jonathan Hill, Jerry D. Kurinsky, and Dipika Patel, who leaned on The Energists’ intrinsic global energy solutions network
Kingsley Gate Expands International Presence
Private equity-backed Kingsley Gate has expanded its international presence with the additions of five new partners across key regions. Dan O’Donovan joins the firm’s Chicago office, Spencer Knibbe joins the New York office, Tatyana Freitas and Loreto Montoya strengthen the Latin American presence in São Paulo and Santiago respectively, while Alejandro Salazar-Simpson enhances the firm’s European
Human Capital as a Strategic Asset: Unlocking High-Performance Leadership in the C-Suite
In today’s rapidly evolving business environment, human capital has become a true strategic asset. Organizations are realizing that successful leadership requires more than technical expertise — it demands a blend of measurable competencies and intangible qualities like emotional intelligence, adaptability, and cultural alignment. High-performance leadership is now defined by the ability to drive innovation, inspire
HARTZ Search Recruits Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer for JPS Health Network
After an extensive national search, Charlotte, NC-based HARTZ Search has assisted in the recruitment of TJ Grassetti as the vice president, chief strategy & business development officer of JPS Health Network. Mr. Grassetti joins JPS Health Network from Intermountain Healthcare, where he was most recently the region vice president of strategic partnerships. Prior to this, he was the
Academic Career & Executive Search Recruits Inaugural Chief Marketing Officer for Central New Mexico Community College
Following a national search, Academic Career & Executive Search (ACES) has recruited Chris Pendleton as the inaugural chief marketing officer of Central New Mexico Community College (CNM). Jennifer Muller, managing partner, led the search. “I’m thrilled to have Chris joining our CNM leadership team,” said Tracy Hartzler, president. “He has proven experience at leveraging modern marketing
Blair Search Partners Recruits President and CEO for the Pasadena Community Foundation
San Diego-based Blair Search Partners has placed Khanh Russo as the new president and CEO of the Pasadena Community Foundation (PCF). He will succeed longtime leader Jennifer DeVoll starting on June 5. Following a nationwide search conducted by PCF’s executive search committee with support from Blair Search Partners, Mr. Russo was selected for his extensive background
Solomon Page Launches Clinical Physician Search
New York City headquartered executive search firm Solomon Page has strengthened its service offerings within the healthcare & life sciences division with the addition of clinical physician search, a new specialty area for the firm. Solomon Page has also appointed Todd Martin as vice president of clinical physician search. “Todd’s arrival is a significant milestone in the evolution of
Rising to the Challenge: How HR Is Evolving to Meet a Complex World
This is arguably the most dynamic and transformative era in the history of human resources. Recruiters tell Hunt Scanlon Media that human resources is experiencing an unprecedented period of innovation and opportunity. There has never been a more exciting time in history to work in HR than now, according to Egon Zehnder’s Rafael Altavini. “The
Heidrick & Struggles Assists the MacArthur Foundation with Chief Investment Officer Search
According to recruiters specializing in the function, demand for executive level, “high impact” investing talent has been on the rise, and that demand is expected to soar in coming years. But recruiters say these roles can be generally difficult to develop and ultimately recruit for clients, given their multi-disciplinary and evolving nature. In fact, impact investing roles are new to
Cowen Partners Seeking CEO for United American Indian Involvement
Vancouver, WA-based Cowen Partners Executive Search was recently called in by United American Indian Involvement, Inc. (UAII) to lead in its search for a new CEO. Sam Torres, managing director, is leading the assignment. “In a period of evolving community needs and dynamic partnerships with tribal, city, county, state, and federal stakeholders, it is essential for UAII to
Rippling Secures $450 Million in Funding
Rippling, a provider of HR information system software, employer-of-record and other talent-related services, has secured $450 million in a series G funding round. The round values the company at $16.8 billion. The series G round includes financing from Elad Gil, Sands Capital, GIC, Goldman Sachs Alternatives, Baillie Gifford and Y Combinator. The company also announced
Pacific International Forms Advisory Board
London-headquartered executive search firm Pacific International has announced the formation of its new advisory board. The initial members, Bjarne Sandager Nielsen and Sameer Pagnis, with deep industry expertise and years of C-suite experience, will enhance Pacific’s executive search capabilities by helping clients identify and attract transformative C-suite leaders while minimizing the risks associated with executive hiring.
Women Leaders Poised to Redefine the Future of Banking and Financial Services
Women continue to gain ground in banking and financial services, making measurable impact across teams with innovative solutions and notable wins for their institutions. Yet despite filling most entry and mid-level positions at banks and financial firms, women remain significantly underrepresented in upper management, a recent report from Slayton Search Partners’ Stuart Smith. According to McKinsey,
20/20 Foresight Acquires Winter Street Search
20/20 Foresight Executive Talent Solutions has acquired Winter Street Search, a boutique retained executive search firm focused on the financial services sector. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. As part of the integration, Lisa DeConto and Scott Vierra, managing partners of Winter Street, have joined 20/20 Foresight as co-presidents of asset & wealth management. They bring decades of
DHR Global Recruits CIO for Academy Sports + Outdoors
Talent advisory firm DHR Global has recruited Sumit Anand as the new executive vice president and chief information officer at Academy Sports + Outdoors. The search was completed by global managing partners Marcey Rubin Stamas and Sal DiFranco. “Mr. Anand, a lifelong customer of Academy Sports + Outdoors, brings extensive experience in cybersecurity, IT infrastructure, digital, and operational
Nexus Search Partners Fills President Role for Mobile Communications America
Nexus Search Partners, an executive search and advisory firm in Charlotte, NC, has placed John Navarro as president of the security division at Mobile Communications America (MCA) in Spartanburg, SC. “John’s deep industry expertise and proven leadership in scaling security businesses make him an outstanding addition to MCA’s executive team,” said Thaddeus V. Jones, founder and managing partner
ADK Consulting & Executive Search Recruits Chief Strategy Officer for the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority
ADK Consulting & Executive Search has recruited Yovannie Rodriguez as senior vice president and chief strategy officer of the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority. Linda Frankl, director, senior practice leader, led the assignment. Ms. Rodriguez brings a strong background in aviation administration and strategy, most recently holding the title of executive vice president and chief administrative officer for
Shifting The Talent Paradigm In PE: A Q&A With Jessica Fiesta George At Atlantic Street Capital Advisors
Private equity firms are growing, and so are the demands placed on their portfolio companies. As the traditional playbook of financial engineering and cost-cutting shows signs of fatigue, PE firms are looking to talent strategy to unlock growth and create long-term value. That shift is at the core of the agenda at Hunt Scanlon’s upcoming
TurningPoint Executive Search and Collabrie Unite to Create Ascentria Search Partners
TurningPoint Executive Search and Collabrie have recently joined forces to establish Ascentria Search Partners. “The merger was a natural fit because both firms share the same philosophy: recruiting is about relationships, not just resumes,” said Seann Richardson, former president of Collabrie and now a partner at Ascentria Search Partners. “By bringing our expertise together, we’re amplifying
McDermott + Bull Assists Technology Credit Union with Chief Marketing Officer Search
Irvine, CA-based McDermott + Bull has assisted in the recruitment of Terri Giannetti as chief marketing officer of Technology Credit Union (Tech CU) in San Jose, CA. The search was led by McDermott + Bull president Brandon Biegenzahn, managing director Courtney Dorrel, vice president Hilary Raska, and senior and executive recruiter Rachel Camonayan. “Terri’s extensive background in marketing, customer segmentation, data analytics and
Cooper Coleman Recruits COO for East Coast Zoological Foundation
Following a nationwide search, Chicago-based Cooper Coleman LLC has placed Anthony Rivera as chief operating officer of East Coast Zoological Foundation (ECZF). The search was led by Johnny Cooper, founder and CEO of Cooper Coleman, and vice president of executive search, Kathy Kraushar. “Anthony brings a remarkable ability to blend strategic vision with operational excellence,” said Ms.
CIO Partners Seeking Chief Information Officer for Walker-Miller Energy Services
The chief information officer is considered one of the most strategic roles in any organization. Still, recruiting within the function remains challenging, as skilled C-suite IT professionals are among the toughest to find, and move. CIO Partners is currently at the closing stages of recruiting a new CIO for Walker-Miller Energy Services. Walker-Miller is seeking a visionary
Why Soft Skills and Continuous Learning Are Key to Thriving in a Changing Workplace
Continuous learning and soft skill development are increasingly vital as technological advancements and evolving job roles demand adaptability, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. Successfully navigating instability and change requires strong soft skills like interpersonal skills and adaptability, according to Beth Nastachowski, leader of TI Verbatim Consulting’s training and development team. “These soft skills enable leaders
Lindauer Recruits Dean of Music for the Boston Conservatory at Berklee
Following a national search, Lindauer has assisted in the recruitment of innovative educator and accomplished musician Kevin Haden as dean of music for the Boston Conservatory at Berklee. Paula Fazli led the assignment. “It is an honor to announce that Kevin Haden will be joining our Boston Conservatory community as the next dean of music starting in July,” said Michael
Russell Reynolds Associates Retained by Boise State University to Find 8th President
Global leadership advisory firm Russell Reynolds Associates has been retained by Boise State University to lead in its search for its eighth president. Past president Marlene Tromp recently left the school to serve as president at the University of Vermont. Russell Reynolds will recruit candidates and assist the Boise State University president search committee throughout the
Kincannon & Reed Assists Ag Alumni Seed Improvement Association with CEO Search
Executive recruitment firm Kincannon & Reed, which exclusively focuses on food, agribusiness, and the related life sciences, has recruited Craig Anderson as the new CEO of the Agriculture Alumni Seed Improvement Association Inc. (Ag Alumni Seed). This transition follows more than a decade of strong collaboration between Purdue University and the leadership of Jay Hulbert, who served as the
The Forum Group Names Leader of HR Recruitment Division
Executive search firm The Forum Group has expanded with the addition of Ruth Espina as managing partner of Forum Group HR recruitment partners—a new division dedicated to connecting top HR talent with organizations. “With over 35 years of experience in human resources and executive search, Ruth isn’t just stepping into a leadership role—she’s building something from the ground up,” the search
The Role of Employee Experience in Boosting Talent Acquisition Outcomes
In today’s job market, employees have the freedom to select roles and organizations that reflect their values, career goals, and ideal work environments—making the overall employee experience a pivotal element in attracting, retaining, and inspiring top talent. Companies must recognize the decisive role of employee experience in executive search to secure leadership that drives organizational
The Hidden Talent Investment That Drives Returns
As a talent professional in private equity, you carry one of the broadest—and most demanding—mandates in the firm. In a single week, you might run multiple portfolio and internal searches, build compensation benchmarks, assess talent for a prospective deal, and provide career coaching for a deal team member, according to Notch Partners. “And that’s before
Herbert Mines Places CEO at Salad and Go
New York-based retail and consumer focused executive search firm Herbert Mines Associates has assisted in the recruitment of Mike Tattersfield as the new CEO of Salad and Go. “Mike is exactly the proven leader we need to unlock Salad and Go’s full potential,” said Florian van Rappard, Salad and Go director and partner at Volt Investment Holdings,
