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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.
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
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?
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
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
AI Moves from Hype to Workflow in Executive Search as Innova Launches Hands-On Summit
Artificial intelligence is rapidly moving from experimentation to execution within executive search, reshaping how firms approach everything from business development to candidate delivery. As expectations rise around speed, insight, and precision, search firms are under increasing pressure to rethink traditional workflows and identify where technology can meaningfully enhance performance rather than simply add complexity. Unlike
Leadership Strategies for Challenging Times
Non-profit leaders face unique challenges in today’s world. From financial and broader economic uncertainty to changing policy and evolving societal needs, the pressure to deliver meaningful change during a period of insecurity can feel immense, according to a recent report from DHR Global. Within these challenges lie decisions for leaders to make as they determine
BarkerGilmore Issues 2025 In-House Counsel Compensation Report
In-house counsel salaries – including general counsel, managing counsel, and senior counsel positions – increased 2.8 percent in 2025, according to BarkerGilmore’s 2025 In-House Counsel Compensation Report. The report also found that 60 percent of all In-house counsel are consider a job search in the coming year. “This year’s compensation survey of nearly 3,000 professionals reflects
Academic Search Recruits 12th President for the Hartford International University for Religion and Peace
Education-focused executive recruitment firm Academic Search has assisted in the recruitment of Rev. Dr. Sherry Turner as the 12th president of the Hartford International University for Religion and Peace (HIU). The search was led by Sharon D. Herzberger, senior consultant, and Carly Place, associate consultant. Dr. Turner will succeed president Joel N. Lohr, who has led HIU since
SearchWide Global Seeking New Leader for Experience Olympia & Beyond
Executive recruitment firm SearchWide Global was recently retained by Experience Olympia & Beyond to lead in its search for a new CEO. Nicole Newman, global head of destinations, is leading the assignment. Experience Olympia & Beyond seeks a CEO to provide leadership for the organization’s staff, board of directors, and Thurston County tourism stakeholders. The successful candidate
Heidrick & Struggles Launches Government & Defense Tech Practice
Executive search, leadership consulting, and culture shaping services provider Heidrick & Struggles has launched its government & defense tech practice. “It is estimated that governments account for roughly 10 percent of total spend on technology and IT services globally—highlighting a growing opportunity for frontier tech and government entities alike to realize a more innovative future,” Heidrick said. “With more
Private Equity’s Leadership Imperative: Driving Impact with Agility and Vision
As the private equity landscape becomes increasingly dynamic and complex, the demand for transformative leadership has never been greater. PE firms are no longer just seeking financial expertise—they want seasoned executives who can deliver alpha through strategic insight, operational excellence, and cultural leadership. Recruiters tell Hunt Scanlon Media that these leaders must demonstrate a clear
Unemployment Rate Remains Unchanged at 4.2 Percent
Employment rose by 117,000 in April as the U.S. unemployment was unchanged 4.2 percent, according to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report. The number of unemployed persons was 7.2 million in April. Employment continued to trend up in healthcare, transportation and warehousing, financial activities, and social assistance. Federal government employment declined. Among the major
Preng & Associates Recruits CFO for Key Energy Services
Houston-based Preng & Associates has assisted in the recruitment of Robert J. Mackenzie as senior vice president, chief financial officer, and treasurer of Key Energy Services. Mr. Mackenzie brings a proven track record of strategic financial planning, operational excellence, and leadership across both corporate finance and capital markets. Most recently serving as director of financial planning and analysis at RPC
Cook Silverman Search Seeking New Leader Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choir
Greenbrae, CA-based Cook Silverman Search is currently seeking a new executive director for Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choir (PEBCC). This executive will lead PEBCC’s mission, strategic vision, and financial sustainability while fostering an inclusive and innovative organizational culture. The executive director reports directly to the board of directors and works in close partnership with the artistic director.
NPAworldwide Elects New Board of Directors
Member-owned recruitment network NPAworldwide has elected a new slate of representatives to its board of directors. The election was held during the organization’s annual owners meeting. Member-owners also voted to approve the group’s audited financial statements, confirm the actions of the board of directors and conduct other official business. “I’m delighted to welcome our newly elected and
Accenture Calls for Executive Resilience as Tariffs Disrupt Strategy
Accenture’s new report, Ready for Resilience, explores the impact of the latest U.S. tariff surge and what it means for companies trying to stay competitive. It details a rapidly evolving trade environment that demands strategic rethinking at every level of every organization. In April, the Trump administration unveiled a sweeping tariff package that included a 10
IndusInd Bank Using Egon Zehnder to Find New CEOs
Financial services organizations, generally, are facing a new competitive landscape, regulatory challenges and a constant struggle to manage cost and efficiency. This requires strategic leaders, both men and women, with a multidimensional skill-set and competencies that often go above and beyond any typical job description. But there’s a big problem: In most countries, while women
Flatiron Search Partners Recruits CFO for PE-Backed 360 Behavioral Health
Flatiron Search Partners (FSP) has assisted in the recruitment of Phil MacAllister as the new CFO of DW Healthcare Partners-backed, 360 Behavioral Health. “Congratulations to Phil MacAllister on his new role as CFO at 360 Behavioral Health, one of the original and most established authorities caring for individuals impacted by autism and developmental delays,” Flatiron Search Partners
Caldwell Recruits Chief Compliance Officer for Canaccord Genuity Group
The chief compliance officer is a corporate executive within the C-suite responsible for overseeing and managing regulatory compliance issues within an organization. The CCO typically reports to the CEO of the chief legal officer. The responsibilities of the chief compliance officer include: Leading enterprise compliance efforts; designing and implementing internal controls, policies, and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable
Russell Reynolds Associates Adds Former Accenture CEO
Global leadership advisory firm Russell Reynolds Associates has expanded with the addition of former Accenture CEO Tonje Sandberg as managing director based in in Oslo office. “We are delighted to welcome Tonje to the firm,” said Harald Kringlebotn, managing director and Norway country manager for Russell Reynolds Associates. “Tonje brings invaluable insights and expertise that will strengthen our
How Top CEOs Stay Connected to the Front Lines
The best CEOs understand that true leadership requires more than boardroom strategy — it demands a deep connection with the front lines. By staying closely attuned to the day-to-day realities of their employees, customers, and operations, top executives can make better decisions, inspire their teams, and adapt more quickly to challenges. In today’s fast-moving business
The SR Group Realigns European Operations, Closes German Offices Amid Market Challenges
Global search company The SR Group has realigned its European offering to service mainland Europe from its Amsterdam and London offices. As a result, both Frankfurt and Düsseldorf offices will close, and premium services to the company’s clients in Germany will be delivered by specialist international teams. The group’s German companies will formally enter into a solvent liquidation
Rutgers Selects TurnkeyZRG to Find Next Athletic Director
TurnkeyZRG has been called in by Rutgers University to lead a national wide search for a new athletic director. An advisory committee has been formed to support the search. Rutgers has been without a permanent athletic director since Patrick Hobbs resigned before an investigation into an inappropriate, consensual relationship with one of the school’s coaches. “Athletics often serves
Tower Consultants Search Places Senior Talent Leader at Hologic
Hobe Sound, FL-headquartered executive recruiting firm Tower Consultants Search Group recently assisted in the placement of Jennifer Tice as vice president, talent acquisition and development for NASDAQ-traded Hologic, Inc., an innovator in medical technology and a global champion of women’s health. The search was led by Chris Rose, Jason Rose, and Kim Klipstein. Reporting to
PierceGray Seeking Head of FP&A for RIA Advisory
PierceGray was recently retained by RIA Advisory (RIA) in Miami, FL, to lead in its search for a head of financial planning and analysis (FP&A). To support the upcoming transaction, RIA is seeking to hire a new head of FP&A who will be responsible for day-to-day financial operations, financial performance and analysis, optimizing processes, and leading the
Effective Communication and Feedback in Executive Search: Essential for Building Strong Candidate Relationships
Executive recruitment is a complex process, with higher stakes as positions reach more senior levels. Executive recruiters play a crucial role in managing this complexity, ensuring companies attract and retain top talent while minimizing risks, according to a recent report from London-headquartered executive search firm Pacific International. To identify key areas for improvement, Pacific International conducted
Greenwood Asher & Associates Assists Southeast Missouri State University with President Search
Miramar Beach, FL-based executive recruitment firm Greenwood Asher & Associates recently assisted in the recruitment of Brad Hodson as the 19th president of Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO). Julie Schrodt, senior executive search consultant, and Jim Johnsen, vice president of executive search, led the assignment. Following a rigorous application review and interview process, the appointment of Dr. Hodson culminates
NU Advisory Partners Recruits Chief People Officer for PureFacts Financial Solutions
NU Advisory Partners has placed Jennifer Bouyoukos as chief people officer of PureFacts Financial Solutions. “Congratulations Jennifer on joining PureFacts Financial Solutions as chief people officer,” NU Advisory Partners said in a LinkedIn post. “We look forward to seeing your rare blend of strategic vision, operational excellence, and people-first leadership drive the organization’s continued success.”
LHH Knightsbridge Search Seeking New CEO for the Ontario Energy Board
LHH Knightsbridge is currently seeking a new CEO for the Ontario Energy Board (OEB). Ed Perkovic, Lisa Knight, and Janice Kussner are leading the assignment. The CEO provides executive leadership to the organization, working closely with government and energy sector stakeholders. They are accountable for the efficient and effective management of the operations of the
Nexus Search Partners Appoints Managing Director, Human Capital
Nexus Search Partners, an executive search and advisory firm in Charlotte, NC, has expanded with the addition of Sam Worobec as managing director, human capital. “Sam has a rare ability to scale culture and capability at the same time,” said Thaddeus V. Jones, founder and managing partner of Nexus Search Partners. “His vision and values are tightly
Who Rises to Lead in Private Equity?
Private equity leaders are defined by their ability to drive growth, manage complexity, and deliver results in high-pressure environments. They blend financial insight with strategic leadership, aligning teams and investors around a shared vision. In today’s market, adaptability and execution are key to standing out. Hogan Assessments, a global provider of personality assessment and leadership
E.A. Hughes, a Division of Solomon Page, Recruits Chief Technology Officer for Citizen Watch
E.A. Hughes & Co., a division of Solomon Page specializing in retail and consumer-focused executive search, has placed Amy Kleinberg as the new chief technology officer of Citizen Watch. Managing directors Ann MacCarthy and Bob Marchant led the assignment. They acted as an extension of the company’s organization, providing a personal and technical approach. “The committed team at E.A. Hughes
Envision Consulting Seeking New Leader for A World Fit for Kids!
A World Fit for Kids! recently retained Pasadena, CA-based search firm Envision Consulting to lead in its search for a new CEO. The organization is seeking a leader who is committed to the mission and will carry on the legacy of the founder and outgoing leader. An honest and transparent communicator, this leader will bring fresh ideas and
DRiWaterstone Human Capital Seeking Chief Development Officer for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation
Arlington, VA-based DRiWaterstone Human Capital was recently retained by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) to lead in its search for a chief development officer. The firm seeks a motivated, dynamic, and driven chief development officer who is compelled by the idea of growing a historically successful fundraising program through an expanded fundraising strategy. Successful candidates
DHR Global Partners with Illuma Search
Talent advisory firm DHR Global has announced that Grant Zallis, founder and CEO of Illuma Search Partners, has joined the firm as managing partner, emerging technology. “This strategic partnership brings Illuma’s exceptional track record in emerging tech and its impressive client base of venture- and private equity-backed companies into the DHR platform,” DHR said. “It combines DHR’s global
Navigating 2025: Key Trends Shaping the Future of Executive Recruiting
The executive search industry is evolving rapidly as organizations face new demands for agile, inclusive, and tech-savvy leadership. Firms are leveraging AI and data analytics to enhance candidate selection, while clients increasingly seek strategic advisors—not just recruiters. “As we move through 2025, several key trends are shaping the executive recruiting landscape,” said Matt Shore, CEO
