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Daily Newswire
Human Capital Moves to the Center of Private Equity Value Creation
Private equity firms are placing increasing emphasis on leadership as a primary driver of value creation, reshaping how talent is evaluated and deployed across portfolio companies. The role of human capital has moved beyond support function status to become a central component of investment strategy and execution. As a result, firms are adopting more structured,
Appointing a Successor in a Family-Owned Business
Leadership transitions in founder-led businesses carry implications that extend far beyond operational continuity. Decisions around who will take the reins often shape not only the company’s trajectory, but also the dynamics within the family itself. Succession is one of the most personal decisions a founder will ever make, according to Warren Carter, senior managing partner
Executive Recruiters Pull Off Another Remarkable Year, Remain Bullish for 2023
Hunt Scanlon Media has released its annual rankings of leading executive recruiters. In the U.S. and globally, billions of dollars poured into the high-end recruiting sector in 2022, a result of continued pentup demand for senior-level leaders and their key reports.
Preng & Associates Recruits SVP of Government Services for American Bureau of Shipping
Houston-based Preng & Associates has placed Rear Admiral Ronald J. Rábago as senior vice president of government services at American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). “Admiral Rábago brings exceptional government and industry experience that will further enhance the support we provide to our government clients in the U.S. and around the world,” said John McDonald, ABS chairman and CEO. “His
GDPR – The Perfect Time to Refresh Your Database
As executive search firms grapple with the complexities of GDPR, many are concerned that the new regulation will mean deleting thousands of records built up over many years. Surely there must be an alternative?
McDermott + Bull Expands in Amsterdam
Irvine, CA-based McDermott + Bull has expanded in Amsterdam with the addition of Gerben van den Hout as managing director. “This strategic hire comes as McDermott + Bull continues to expand its executive search presence across Europe, further strengthening the firm’s ability to support organizations in identifying and placing high-impact leadership talent,” the firm said. “Gerben’s appointment represents an
The CHRO’s Leadership Imperative in the AI Era
As organizations accelerate their adoption of artificial intelligence, business leaders are increasingly recognizing that successful transformation depends as much on people and leadership as it does on technology itself. HR executives, in particular, are finding themselves at the center of conversations around workforce readiness, employee trust, skills development, and organizational change management. Industry observers note
Cluen Invites Executive Search Firms to Participate in Upcoming 2026 Technology Trends Survey
For more than three decades, Cluen has partnered with leading executive search firms around the world to understand how top-performing recruiters use technology to gain a competitive advantage. Each year, the company’s Top Trends in Executive Search Technology survey uncovers the strategies, priorities, and innovations shaping the future of the profession. How are executive search firms balancing the rapid adoption of AI
Lindauer Retained by C-SPAN for Chief Development Officer Search
Virtually every industry needs top-drawer chief development officers. CDOs play a key role in planning, coordinating, and administering capital campaigns, corporate giving, and galvanizing new donors while keeping previous funders content. Implementing funding strategies that “keep the lights on,” according to recruiters specializing in the function, is job No. 1. Lindauer has been retained by C-SPAN to
NPAG Seeking Executive Director for the California Youth Defender Center
Executive search firm NPAG has been selected by the California Youth Defender Center (CYDC) to lead in its search for a new executive director. This search is being led by Ellen LaPointe and Phuong Quach. This is a unique opportunity to lead a respected and influential organization at a pivotal moment, shaping the future of youth justice
Lochlin Partners Helps Fill Senior Position for Business Roundtable
Lochlin Partners has assisted in the recruitment of Stefani Jones as senior director of policy at Business Roundtable (BRT). Ms. Jones is an accomplished technology policy leader with deep expertise at the intersection of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and national security. Her experience spans the White House, the private sector, and senior federal policy roles. She
Why Executives Should Think Carefully Before Accepting Counteroffers
Few moments in an executive’s career carry as much complexity as the decision to resign from a leadership role and pursue a new opportunity. What often begins as a strategic career move can quickly become emotionally charged once a current employer responds with incentives aimed at reversing that decision. Recruiters and leadership advisors note that
Funk Associates Tapped by the University of North Florida to Lead Search for Eighth President
Funk Associates was recently retained by the University of North Florida (UNF) to lead a national search for its eighth president. Past president Moez Limayem stepped down from his position in early 2026. The presidential search committee, chaired by UNF board of trustees member Jack Boyle, plays a critical role in this process, focusing on
Acertitude Recruits CEO for PE-Backed Zep Inc.
Acertitude has placed Tim Feast as the new CEO of Zep Inc., a Truelink Capital portfolio company. The search was led by partner, Geoff Votta and principal, Rod Vaughan with support from Matthew Marasco and Maryanne Santospirito. Mr. Feast steps into the role with a mandate to accelerate growth, sharpen execution, and lead Zep into its
SearchWide Global Seeking CEO for Visit California
SearchWide Global is currently seeking a new CEO for Visit California. The assignment is being led by Mike Gamble, chairman, CEO, and co-founder of SearchWide. Visit California is seeking a collaborative, visionary, and politically astute leader to serve as the next CEO. As the organization’s chief strategist, brand steward, and operational head, the CEO works
Intersearch Worldwide Elects Chairwoman and New Board Members
InterSearch Worldwide, a global alliance of executive search companies, has announce the newly elected board following and the appointment of Vanessa Delacourt as chairwoman, marking an exciting new chapter and reinforcing the organization’s commitment to innovation and sustainable growth. The board has welcomed: Leslie Cooper A. (Chile); Vanessa Delacourt (Benelux); Frank Schelstraete (Belgium); Henri Vidalinc
The Platform Shift Reshaping Human Capital M&A
Hunt Scanlon Ventures’ 2026 Human Capital Markets Update: Q1 M&A Report points to a market undergoing rapid institutionalization. Human capital M&A is no longer centered around standalone recruiting firms or opportunistic acquisitions. Instead, buyers are consolidating around integrated platforms that combine executive search, leadership advisory, workforce analytics, succession planning, and AI-enabled infrastructure. The shift reflects a broader
WittKieffer Recruits 22nd President for the University of Tulsa
Oak Brook, IL-based WittKieffer has placed Stacy Leeds as the 22nd president of the University of Tulsa (UTulsa). Zachary Smith, Robin Mamlet, and Julia Bradley led the assignment. Ms. Leeds was selected following a competitive and comprehensive national search. Members of the search committee and full board were drawn to her unique portfolio of executive management, philanthropic success and unimpeachable academic credibility. “Stacy
SPMB Recruits CFO for AbsenceSoft
SPMB Executive Search has recruited Megan Wood as CFO of AbsenceSoft, a Denver, CO-based employee leave management and accommodations platform. Jon Landau and Laura Ayre led the assignment. “The market opportunity in front of AbsenceSoft is significant, and Megan brings the right financial and operational depth to meet it,” said Chris Murphy, CEO of AbsenceSoft. “Her proven track record at fast-growth, innovative companies on
AGB Search Helps Recruit 20th President for the University of Montana
Washington, D.C.-based recruitment firm AGB Search, which specializes in higher education leadership assignments, has assisted in the recruitment of Jeremiah Shinn as the 20th president of the University of Montana. His selection follows a national search that drew more than 70 accomplished applicants from across the country. Roderick McDavis, James H. McCormick and Janice S. Fitzgerald led the assignment. “Dr. Shinn’s on-campus visit
TurnkeyZRG Appoints Vice President
TurnkeyZRG has expanded with the addition of Sean Magee as vice president. “College and professional football are being reshaped in real time — by revenue sharing, NIL, the transfer portal, and unprecedented financial and operational complexity,” said Chad Chatlos, managing partner, ZRG Turnkey. “Sean lived inside that disruption as a senior operator. He understands what it
Rethinking the Factors Behind Employee Loyalty and Retention
Two widely repeated assumptions continue to shape discussions around today’s workforce, despite oversimplifying a far more nuanced reality. Claims that employee loyalty has disappeared, or that departures are driven almost entirely by poor management, often overlook the broader mix of organizational, economic, leadership, and career factors influencing retention. While such narratives persist because they are
Anthem Executive Assists the University of West Alabama with Provost Search
Anthem Executive has assisted in the recruitment of Amy H. Jones as provost of the University of West Alabama, the role that oversees all aspects of academics at the institution. “Dr. Jones has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to the mission of UWA,” said Todd G. Fritch, president of the University of West Alabama.
ON Partners Recruits Chief Supply Chain Officer for Atmus Filtration Technologies
ON Partners has helped to recruited Kevin Carpenter as senior vice president and chief supply chain officer of NYSE-traded Atmus Filtration Technologies Inc. in Nashville, TN. Partner Heidi Hoffman led the assignment. “Kevin is a proven operations leader with a strong track record of building resilient, customer focused supply chains at scale,” said Steph Disher, president and
ZRG Partners Acquires Sterling Martin Associates
ZRG Partners has acquired Sterling Martin Associates, a Washington, D.C.–based executive search firm specializing in professional associations, trade organizations, and mission‑driven non-profit organizations. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Larry Hartmann, CEO of ZRG, said the acquisition reflects ZRG’s disciplined approach to growth. “This is not about scale for scale’s sake,” he explained.
Options Group Appoints VP in London
Options Group has named Henry Wilson as a vice president in London. He will specialize in the commodities trading technology sector. Over the past 12 years, Mr. Wilson has specialized in technology recruitment across commodities and capital markets, partnering with trading businesses to solve complex hiring challenges across front‑office, quantitative, and core trading technology functions. He previously spent over
Inside the AI Integration Gap: What Separates the Firms Moving Furthest
Executive search is off to a strong start in 2026. Americas revenue across the industry is tracking up approximately 10 to 11 percent, and a number of search firms are posting growth rates that would have been notable even in stronger markets. But beneath that headline, a different kind of divide is opening up —
The Most Overlooked Step in Hiring, and Why It Matters
In today’s hiring environment, organizations devote significant attention to attracting and securing top talent, yet many overlook the period immediately following offer acceptance. While the candidate may have formally agreed to join the company, important expectations, logistics, and verbal commitments often remain unresolved or undocumented. Recruiters say this overlooked stage can have a major impact
Bryant Group Fills Senior Post for the University of Oklahoma Foundation
Dallas-based executive search and talent development firm Bryant Group has assisted in the recruitment of Laura Ketchum as assistant vice president of advancement, OU Health Campus, at the University of Oklahoma Foundation. The search was led by Sarah Hempen, vice president of search. “Laura brings an extraordinary combination of campaign leadership, principal gift expertise and a proven ability to inspire high-performing
The Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority Retains Krauthamer & Associates for CEO Search
Krauthamer & Associates (K&A) has been retained by the Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority to lead in its search for a CEO. The search is expected to take several months. Interim CEO Brent Cagle will continue leading day-to-day operations in the meantime and has been encouraged to apply for the permanent role, according to the board. MPTA board
CEO Turnover Surges as Boards Bet on First-Time Leaders
According to Spencer Stuart’s S&P 1500 CEO Transitions Report, 168 new chief executives were named across the index last year, the most since 2010. The surge reflects mounting board impatience with weak growth, activist pressures, AI-driven disruption, and a market environment that rewards speed over tenure. Turnover was broad-based but especially pronounced among smaller companies, with SmallCap
Myers McRae Leading Florida A&M President Search
Macon, GA-based Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting is currently leading the search for Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University’s 13th president. Kenny Daugherty and Brianna Douglas are leading the assignment. The search committee has a goal to have a new university president in place by summer 2025. The search is chaired by Deveron Gibbons, vice chair of the Florida A&M board
The Energists Fills Senior Business Development Role for GOWell International
Houston-based The Energists has assisted in the recruitment of Chris Morgan as global vice president of business development at GOWell International. Jerry Kurinsky led the search along with Dipika Patel and Jon Hill. “We are pleased to announce the addition of Chris Morgan to GOWell, to lead our business development organization,” the company said. “Chris is a
ADK Consulting & Executive Search Seeking New CEO for the Spokane International Airport
ADK Consulting & Executive Search was recently retained by the Spokane International Airport to lead in its search for a new CEO. Linda Frankl, director, senior practice leader, is leading the assignment. The Spokane Airport Board seeks an innovative, forward-thinking CEO who will be a champion for growth and development of the region, Spokane International, Felts
Ezekia Partners with Findex Interim
In today’s fast-paced and constantly shifting business environment, interim talent has become an essential strategic asset. Companies are navigating rapid growth, sudden leadership changes, mergers, digital transformations, and market uncertainty—all of which demand immediate, specialized expertise. Interim executives and consultants offer a unique solution: they can step in quickly, bring deep knowledge to critical projects,
U.S. Postal Service Board of Governors Retains Egon Zehnder to Lead Search for 76th Postmaster General and CEO
The U.S. Postal Service Board of Governors has retained global leadership advisory firm Egon Zehnder to lead the search for the 76th postmaster general and chief executive officer. The firm will work closely with the Governors to identify, evaluate, and select a forward-looking and effective leader to guide the Postal Service into its next chapter.
Unemployment Rate Rises Slightly to 4.2 Percent
Employment rose by 228,000 in March as the U.S. unemployment rose slightly to 4.2 percent, according to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report. The number of unemployed persons was 7.1 million in March. In March, job gains occurred in healthcare, in social assistance, and in transportation and warehousing. Employment also increased in retail
Furst Group Recruits President and CEO for Memorial Health
Executive recruitment firm Furst Group, which serves the healthcare and insurance industries, has assisted in the recruitment of Mandy Eaton as the new president and CEO of Memorial Health in Springfield, IL. She succeeds Ed Curtis, who previously announced plans to retire after a 50-year career with Memorial. “The board was impressed with Dr. Eaton’s leadership
Klein Hersh Adds Industry Expert
Horsham, PA-based Klein Hersh, an executive search firm focused on the life sciences and healthcare industries, has expanded with the addition of Neil Ravitz as vice president, healthcare. “We are thrilled to welcome someone of Neil’s caliber to the growing Klein Hersh team,” said Jason Hersh, CEO of Klein Hersh. “Neil’s deep healthcare industry expertise is a tremendous asset
The New Race for Talent in Life Sciences and Healthcare
The life sciences and healthcare industries are experiencing unprecedented growth, creating intense competition for top-tier talent in an increasingly complex and tech-driven landscape. As the demand for highly specialized roles rises—spanning biotech, data science, and digital health—organizations must rethink their leadership strategies to stay ahead. At the forefront of this evolution, Mattson & Company/GMiQ is
Private Equity’s Approach to Leadership Is Evolving—Are You Prepared?
Executive search consultants continue to say that the private equity landscape has undergone significant transformations in recent years, particularly in how firms approach leadership acquisition and talent strategy. This evolution is driven by several key factors and trends, according to a recent report from global executive search provider SpenglerFox’s Michael Klingler. The traditional PE playbook focused
Massey Henry Seeking Chief Information Officer for Prairie Payments Joint Venture
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. Toronto-based executive search firm Massey Henry was recently retained by Prairie Payments Joint Venture (PPJV) to lead in its search for a new
Assembly Group Assists Sonar with CFO Search
Austin, TX-based executive search firm Assembly Group has assisted in the recruitment of Jean Compeau as the new CFO of Sonar, the leader for integrated code quality and code security solutions. “It was a pleasure working with the Sonar team, and we wish the company continued success as they welcome Jean,” Assembly Group said in a LinkedIn
The Adecco Group Launches New Salesforce-Powered Company to Unite Human and Digital Talent
The Adecco Group has launched a new company, backed by investments from both the Adecco Group and Salesforce. The new company is entering into a strategic partnership with Salesforce to help organizations build an integrated workforce of humans and AI agents. This new outfit will empower senior leaders to strategically plan, deploy, and manage workers
Here Is Why Versatile CEOs Are In Such High Demand
The leadership dynamics of private equity-backed firms and public companies have long been viewed as starkly different. Private equity leaders thrive on fast value creation, a highly involved ownership model, and a clear exit strategy – often within a five-year window. Public company chief executives, on the other hand, navigate board politics, captain shareholder expectations,
Nova Ukraine Retains Diversified Search Group (DSG Global) | Koya Partners for CEO Search
Diversified Search Group (DSG Global) | Koya Partners has been called in by Nova Ukraine to lead in its search for a new CEO. The assignment is being led by Ian McCray, Gerard F. Cattie Jr., Beth Reeves, and Manuel A. Gongon Jr. The incoming CEO will partner with the board of directors in strategic visioning and decision making
Buffkin / Baker Seeking New President for Pittsburg State University
Partner-led executive search firm Buffkin / Baker has been selected by Pittsburg State University in Kansas. Partner Pelema Ellis is leading the assignment. To lead the institution, the board seeks a growth-oriented, proven leader who will build on the university’s foundation of good fiscal management, unique program delivery, and exceptional relationships with its host city to drive
The Hawkins Company Leading CEO Search for Knoxville Area Urban League
The Hawkins Company, a Los Angeles-based executive recruitment firm, is currently leading the search for a new president and CEO for the Knoxville Area Urban League. Todd Hawkins is leading the assignment. The Knoxville Area Urban League seeks a CEO to manage and oversee the day-to-day operations of the non-profit economic development and social services
FMG Leading Appoints President
Human capital advisory firm FMG Leading has named Will Busch as president. In this new position, he will lead FMG Leading’s growth and transformation efforts, positioning the firm to further expand its client reach. “Today’s healthcare leaders must heighten their focus on human capital to stay ahead of evolving, disruptive market forces,” said Matt Brubaker, chairman and
The Evolution of Executive Recruiting in the Age of AI
Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing executive search by enhancing the efficiency of research, candidate sourcing, and assessment processes. AI-powered tools analyze vast datasets to identify potential candidates, assess their qualifications, and predict how well someone might fit a role, according to article from global talent provider True’s Josh Withers. “Talent mapping, once a drawn-out process, is now
Russell Reynolds Associates Seeking President for Lake Forest College
Academic institutions continue to pump big fees into executive search firms nationwide. Many academic recruiting specialists say business, in fact, has never been better despite some sectors of executive search slowing over the past year. Even smaller recruiting outfits have multiple assignments running concurrently, all at the senior levels, and if there’s any slowdown coming
McCormack+Kristel Tapped by Central New York ON RAMP for CEO Search
Executive search firm McCormack+Kristel has been retained by Central New York One Network for Regional Advanced Manufacturing Partnerships (Central New York ON RAMP) to lead in its search for a new CEO. Reporting to the board of directors, the ON RAMP CEO will build the Central New York ON RAMP organization. They will develop and implement all
Saxton Bampfylde Assists Marine Society & Sea Cadets with CEO Search
U.K.-based executive recruiter Saxton Bampfylde has assisted in the recruitment of Guy Holloway as the new CEO of Marine Society & Sea Cadets (MSSC). He will officially join MSSC on May 1, undertaking a two-week handover period with outgoing CEO Martin Coles, who has led the charity with distinction for 15 years. “We are delighted to have
TRANSEARCH Expands Leadership Team
TRANSEARCH International Türkiye has added Vural Ulus to its leadership team as a partner. “We are delighted that Vural Ulus has joined TRANSEARCH International Türkiye as a partner and leadership consultant,” said Murat Öztürk, managing partner of TRANSEARCH International Türkiye. “With 25 years of business expertise and a strong background in executive leadership, Vural brings invaluable insights
How to Identify Leadership Potential in Private Equity Acquisitions
Private equity firms excel at finance and technology but too often lag in talent strategy, particularly in portfolio company management. While many private equity firms already assess leaders through interviews and track record analysis, these methods can miss critical predictors of success, according to a new report from Hogan Assessments, a global provider of personality
Bespoke Partners Recruits CEO for Gravity
San Diego, CA-headquartered Bespoke Partners has assisted in the recruitment of Tyler Davey as the new CEO of Toronto-based Gravity (IGM Technology Corporation), a cloud-based financial and disclosure management platform for state and local governments. Gravity is backed by Lead Edge Capital. The search was led by Kristie Nova and Jenny Gray. “Gravity is transforming how government
Coulter Partners Recruits Chief Scientific Officer for ExpressionEdits
Life sciences recruiting specialist Coulter Partners has helped to recruit Amrik Basran as chief scientific officer of ExpressionEdits. “Amrik’s extensive experience in biologics development makes him an invaluable addition to ExpressionEdits,” said Kärt Tomberg, co-founder and CEO of ExpressionEdits. “His leadership will be key as we expand from platform innovation to therapeutic development, ensuring our technology
The Moran Company Seeking Major Gifts Officer for Friends LA
For not-for-profit organizations, these are particularly challenging days. Declining support from government sources, increased demand for their services and competition for donor dollars are just a few of the issues that charitable groups must overcome to stay afloat each year. Simply put, major gift officers are top-level fundraisers. They identify potential donors, cultivate relationships and,
Talentor International Adds Member Firm in Spain
Executive search consortium Talentor International has expanded with the addition of Boomerang in Barcelona, Spain. “At Talentor, we believe that great partnerships drive success. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our new partner in Spain: Boomerang,” the search consortium said. “With a strong track record in executive search and talent solutions, Boomerang brings a fresh, dynamic approach
Driving Growth Through Specialized Talent Acquisition
The Bridger Group is a 57-year-old executive search firm working exclusively in the building products and commercial interior products industries. The firm focuses on identifying top candidates for roles in sales, sales management, and executive positions within these sectors. Jordan Underwood, managing partner at The Bridger Group, recently joined Hunt Scanlon Media to discuss the
Artico Search Fills Senior Role with Floodgate
Mercedes Chatfield-Taylor and Matt Meyer of Artico Search have assisted in the recruitment of Mike Heller as partner with Floodgate. “It’s been over a decade since we’ve added a new partner at Floodgate,” Mike Maples said in a LinkedIn post. “Mike Heller checks every box we care about, as an investor, a human, and a co-conspirator for top
Heidrick & Struggles Retained by the American Institute of Architects to Find New Leader
Non-profits as a whole are the third largest employer in the U.S., and as a result its impact on recruiting and talent is significant. Recruiters tell Hunt Scanlon Media that non-profits often struggle with a narrow talent pool and geographic limitations, making it difficult to find candidates with both the required skills and a strong commitment
