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Alexander Hughes Names Heads of Global Defense Practice
Alexander Hughes has named Norbert Alix-Buguet as head of its global defense practice. Jean-Brice Le Gayic was also named co‑head of the practice. “The unique added value of this duo lies in their ability to gain an in‑depth understanding of the strategic and operational challenges of such a demanding sector as defense, and to support their clients
Executive Search Continues Its Confident Climb As Transformation Takes Center Stage
The executive search industry entered 2026 from a position of strength. According to Hunt Scanlon, fee revenue at the 50 largest executive search firms in the U.S. / Americas – the global talent sector’s largest and most dominant region – jumped 11 percent last year, topping out at $6.69 billion. Seventy-five percent of search firms
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
The Expanding CFO Mandate: From Scorekeeper to Value Creator
As business complexity increases across industries, the office of the CFO is experiencing a significant transformation. Traditionally focused on financial stewardship, today’s CFO organizations are evolving into enterprise-wide strategic drivers—supporting growth, overseeing risk, enabling transformation, and acting as key partners to the CEO and board. With the CFO role increasingly viewed as a pathway to
Juno Search Partners Recruits CFO for Council for Relationships
Philadelphia-based executive search firm Juno Search Partners LLC, has placed Mary K. Mackey as the new CFO of Council for Relationships. “Juno Search Partners has made my placement as CFO at Council for Relationships seamless and personable, perfectly embodying CFR’s mission of strengthening interpersonal relationships,” said Ms. Mackey. “I am truly honored to step into this
CFOs as Strategic Architects: Navigating Transformation in Financial Services
Financial services organizations, generally, are facing a new competitive market, regulatory challenges and a constant struggle to manage cost and efficiency, recruiters tell Hunt Scanlon Media. 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. CFOs play a pivotal role
The Power of Partnership: The Value of Third-Party Recruiters in Talent Acquisition
Third-party recruiters bring tremendous value to a talent acquisition team by acting as strategic partners in the pursuit of top senior-level talent. Their extensive networks allow them to access passive candidates, while their expertise in recruitment enables them to quickly compile shortlists of qualified applicants tailored to a company’s specific needs, according to a recently
CAA | Hanold Executive Search Recruits Executive Director for Soccer Forward Foundation
CAA | Hanold Executive Search has assisted U.S. Soccer Federation with the recruitment of Alexandra (Lex) Chalat as executive director of Soccer Forward Foundation, U.S. Soccer’s 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup legacy initiative. CAA | Hanold Associates’ Jason Hanold, Megan McElroy, and Catie Nelson led the search for this critical role. “U.S. Soccer exists in service to
Lochlin Partners Fills Senior Strategy and Communications Post for Western States Petroleum Association
Lochlin Partners recently helped to place Denise Davis as vice president of strategy and communications of the Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) in Sacramento, CA. She succeeds Kevin Slagle, who now serves as senior vice president at the American Petroleum Institute (API). “We are thrilled to welcome Denise to WSPA at such a pivotal time for energy policy
Solomon Page Expands Healthcare & Life Sciences Division
New York City headquartered executive search firm Solomon Page has expanded its healthcare & life sciences division with the additions Steve Marsh and Megan Berlinger as managing directors. These two consultants bring decades of expertise in executive search and healthcare operations, further strengthening the firm’s ability to place senior executive talent across healthcare systems, academic medicine, and medical
Chief People Officer 2030: Developing a Toolkit for the Future of Leadership
HR leaders are deep into the evolution of their roles, shifting from back-office operational experts to strategic business partners. Every day, they navigate transformation on multiple levels—within their roles, their function, their organizations, and the broader business environment. The Covid-19 pandemic kick-started the pace of change, but volatility since, including geopolitical and economic volatility, new
Peña Search Tapped by The SAFE Alliance to Find New CEO
The SAFE Alliance (SAFE) recently retained Peña Search to lead in its search for a new CEO. Travis Hillier is leading the assignment. At a pivotal moment in SAFE’s history, the board of directors seeks a dynamic, politically savvy leader who blends business acumen with a deep commitment to the organization’s mission and its organizational culture. With a
Gilman Partners Leading CEO Search for The Mayerson JCC
Executive search firm Gilman Partners has been retained by The Mayerson JCC (the J) in Cincinnati, OH, to lead in its search for a new CEO. Partners Michele Plessinger and Barry Elkus are leading the assignment. The CEO of the J reports to the board of trustees and is responsible for leading the operations of a complex organization,
Glue Executive Search Recruits Chief Technology Officer for ECIPSA
Buenos Aires-headquartered Glue Executive Search recently assisted in the recruitment of Emiliano Josfal as chief technology officer for ECIPSA in Argentina. Mr. Josfal is a seasoned technology and business leader with extensive experience in IT strategy, project management, and digital transformation. He previously served as the director of graduate studies in information systems management (CIO) at UADE Business
H.I. Executive Consulting Expands in Paris
Global search firm H.I. Executive Consulting (HIEC) has expanded with the addition of Selma de Fressenel as a partner based in Paris enhancing its presence across Europe. “We are delighted that Selma is joining our team at HIEC,” said Melissa Reed, managing partner and global leader, consumer practice. “Selma brings an outstanding track record with a focus
Global Hiring Intentions Remain Steady for Q2 2025 Amid Ongoing Uncertainty
Global hiring intentions hold steady heading into the second quarter of 2025, with employers reporting a Net Employment Outlook (NEO) of 25 percent, according to the latest ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey. The results, which gathered data from nearly 40,000 employers across 41 countries during January 2025, show the outlook holding steady for the third consecutive
Nexus Search Partners Recruits CEO for Charlotte Regional Business Alliance
Nexus Search Partners, an executive search and advisory firm in Charlotte, NC, has recruited Robert McCutcheon as the new CEO of the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance (CLT Alliance). “Nexus Search Partners is committed to identifying leaders who create lasting impact,” said Thaddeus V. Jones, founder and managing partner of Nexus Search Partners. “Robert’s leadership experience and vision will
LHH Knightsbridge Assists Room Women’s Network and Women of Influence+ with President Search
LHH Knightsbridge has assisted in the recruitment of Linda Kuga Pikulin as president of Room Women’s Network and Women of Influence+ (WOI+), two trailblazing organizations redefining the future of women’s leadership. Partner Tara Veysey and senior consultant Cheryl Lai led the assignment. “Linda is a transformative leader whose experience and strategic acumen will be invaluable in shaping the
Hudson RPO Appoints CFO
Hudson RPO, a global total talent solutions company has named Kurt Kappeler as its new CFO. As CFO of Hudson RPO, Mr. Kappeler will report dually to Jake Zabkowicz, global CEO for Hudson RPO, and Matt Diamond, global CFO of Old Greenwich, Conn.-based recruiting firm Hudson Global Inc., which owns and manages Hudson RPO. Mr. Diamond will
NuBrick Partners Expands Leadership Team
NuBrick Partners has expanded with the addition of Amy Mills to its leadership team as vice president. “We are excited to welcome Amy Mills, PhD, to the NuBrick Partners leadership team as vice president,” the firm said in a LinkedIn post. “Amy is a respected leadership advisor, assessment expert, and ICF professional certified coach with
M&A Outlook Points to Accelerating Deal Flow
The global mergers and acquisitions landscape is poised for a gradual recovery following three years of subdued deal activity, according to Bain & Company’s newly released Global M&A Report 2025. While persistent macroeconomic headwinds, including high interest rates and regulatory scrutiny, dampened dealmaking last year, the outlook for 2025 suggests renewed optimism. Bain’s analysis highlights shifting dynamics in
ZRG Acquires Legal Search Firm EP Dine
Global talent advisory firm ZRG has acquired legal executive search firm EP Dine. This strategic expansion strengthens ZRG’s expertise in general counsel searches while also establishing a new capability to assist law firms in securing top-tier legal talent. “EP Dine’s reputation in the legal search space is unparalleled,” said Larry Hartmann, CEO of ZRG. “Their expertise in
TM² Executive Search Seeking Chief Development Officer for the Thurgood Marshall College Fund
TM² Executive Search (TM²) is currently looking for a chief development officer for the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF). The search is being led by TM² Executive Search’s managing principal, Dakota Doman. The chief development officer at TMCF serves as a critical member of the executive leadership team, directly reporting to the president and CEO. This
Korn Ferry Recruits CEO for CTIA
Korn Ferry has placed Ajit Pai as the new president and CEO of CTIA in Washington, D.C. “Ajit has played a pivotal role in leading our nation’s effort to promote broadband deployment and expand commercial access to spectrum,” said Laurent Therivel, CEO of UScellular and CTIA chairman of the board. “He is the proven leader we need to head
Kirk Palmer Associates Recruits CEO for Escalade
Retail-focused executive search firm Kirk Palmer Associates has assisted in the recruitment of Armin Boehm as president and CEO of NASDAQ-traded Escalade, Inc. in Evansville, IN. He will succeed Walter P. Glazer, Jr., who in August 2024 announced his plans to retire. Mr. Boehm will begin as Escalade CEO and president on April 1, 2025. Partner Lindsay Stevens, senior principal
Advancing Progress Toward Gender Equality
Six years ago, Jessica Pezim of The Bedford Group began reflecting on International Women’s Day by writing letters to her children about the progress women have made in the workforce since her mother’s generation – and her hopes for the future when they enter the workforce. “While I believe gender equality is achievable, the past few
DHR Global Recruits Head Football Coach for Bowling Green State University
Glenn Sugiyama and Dan Guerrero of talent advisory firm DHR Global recently assisted in the recruitment of Eddie George as the new head football coach of Bowling Green State University (BGSU). “At BGSU, we always emphasize how our people and our community transform this great university and enhance the student experience,” said vice president for athletics
Academic Search Seeking New President for the University of Alabama
Education-focused executive recruiter Academic Search has been retained by the University of Alabama (UA) to lead in its search for a new president. Stuart R. Bell, the 29th president of the University of Alabama, has announced his plans to step down from the presidency mid-summer, completing a decade in the school’s top leadership role. Senior consultant Ann
JM Search Expands Consumer Practice
JM Search, a senior-level talent provider serving private equity investors, portfolio companies, and Fortune 1000s, has expanded its team of experts dedicated to recruiting executives for consumer businesses with the additions of John Foristall, Heidi Rustin, and Jennifer Green. “JM Search is experiencing rapid growth in the consumer goods market, necessitating exceptional leaders to navigate the evolving landscape,” the
Signium Elects New Board of Directors
Executive search consortium Signium has announced the election of its 2025+ board of directors: Annelize van Rensburg, director of executive search in Johannesburg, South Africa was re-elected as chair. Felipa Xara-Brasil, managing partner in Lisbon, Portugal was elected as vice chair. “I am privileged to serve a second term on the board and honored for the trust my fellow board members
Advancing Women in Leadership: How Far Have We Come?
If research highlights the benefits of diverse leadership perspectives in fostering innovation, growth, and financial success, why do women remain underrepresented in senior business leadership roles globally? What barriers do women face in getting to the top, and what propels the careers of women who do? When Spencer Stuart explored these questions five years ago
5 Hiring Strategies for 2025
This time of year presents an ideal opportunity to fine-tune your hiring strategy and assemble a team that will propel your business forward. In today’s competitive talent landscape, attracting and securing top candidates demands more than a simple job description and a handful of interviews. It demands a thoughtful, proactive approach that aligns with your
Rokos Group Seeking Chief Medical Officer for Alameda Health System
Newport Beach, CA-based executive search firm Rokos Group has been retained by Alameda Health System (AHS) in Alameda, CA. Reporting directly to the CEO, the chief medical officer serves as the senior medical leader and strategic visionary for Alameda Health System. As both a physician executive and clinical strategist, the CMO champions AHS’s commitment to delivering the
GHP Search Fills Board Positions with Literacy Partners
According to recruiters interviewed by Hunt Scanlon Media, the executive search process for board directors is inherently complex and demands a customized approach. Firms specializing in board recruitment typically start with a thorough evaluation of the organization’s existing board structure, strategic objectives, and industry dynamics. This assessment helps shape the ideal candidate profile, which often
True Launches Hybrid Talent Solution SearchEssentials
Global talent provider True has launched SearchEssentials, a versatile technology and services hiring solution designed for flexible customization. Focusing on roles that may not require a fully retained executive search, SearchEssentials offers an adaptable, tech-enabled, partially retained search model tailored for team expansions, key individual contributor positions, and leadership roles in smaller or early-stage companies.







