DAILY NEWSWIRE - TOP STORIES
Daily Newswire
U.S. Hiring Slows as Unemployment Rate Edges Up to 4.2 Percent
Employment increased by 29,000 in September as the U.S. unemployment rate edged up to at 4.2 percent, according to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report. The number of unemployed people, at 7.1 million, also increased in September. Among the major worker groups, the unemployment rate for people who are Black (7.0 percent) increased in September.
Cook Silverman Search Recruits Chief Development Officer for Common Sense Media
Greenbrae, CA-based Cook Silverman Search has assisted in the recruitment of Alicia Chang as chief development officer of Common Sense Media to lead in its search for a chief development officer. Ms. Chang joins Common Sense Media after spending a decade with Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, where she most recently served as deputy chief development officer
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.
Charles Aris Launches Interim Search Business
Organizations are increasingly turning to flexible leadership solutions to navigate periods of change, execute strategic initiatives and drive value creation, especially in private equity. In response to this growing demand, Greensboro, NC-based executive search firm Charles Aris Executive Search has launched Charles Aris Interim Solutions, a new division dedicated to connecting organizations with experienced independent talent for interim
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?
Taurean Establishes Investment Search Practice
Taurean recently launched an investment search practice with the addition of Paige Ware as principal in Los Angeles. The practice serves private markets firms across asset classes. “We help these firms shape and build their capital raising and investor relations, origination, and deal teams, and place corporate development leaders into their portfolio companies,” Taurean said in a
The Chief Commercial Officer: Driving Private Equity Value Creation
As private equity firms place greater emphasis on organic growth, commercial leadership is taking on a more central role in value creation. The chief commercial officer (CCO) has become one of the most important post-acquisition hires for private equity sponsors, according to a recent report from Spencer Stuart’s Dave Vidor. As extended hold periods and
The Tolan Group Recruits CEO for U.S. Mobile Health Exams
The Tolan Group (TTG) has placed Eric Hepburn as CEO at U.S. Mobile Health Exams (USMHE) in Jacksonville, FL. He brings more than 30 years of experience in executive leadership, business operations, strategic growth, and organizational transformation. Mr. Hepburn’s appointment brings USMHE an experienced executive with a track record of strengthening business operations, developing scalable
Cooper Coleman Leading CFO Search for Jacksonville Zoological Society
Cooper Coleman LLC has been retained by Jacksonville Zoological Society, Inc. to conduct a national search for its next CFO. “Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens has an ambitious vision for its future, and its next CFO will help shape how those plans move forward,” said Johnny Cooper, founder and CEO of Cooper Coleman. “We’re looking for someone
The Christopher Group Tapped by MITRE for Head of Total Rewards Search
The Christopher Group (TCG), a boutique HR executive search and business solutions recruiting firm, has been selected by MITRE to lead in its search for a head of total rewards. The search is being led by managing partner Ayla Maloney and recruiting director Kat Kilkenney. “This is an incredibly exciting opportunity for a total rewards leader who wants to make
True Establishes Dedicated Private Credit Practice
Global executive talent platform True has launched a dedicated private credit practice, led by Rick Bank, managing director and head of the private credit and private equity practices. The launch comes as private credit enters a significant credit cycle, with 67 percent of portfolio managers citing greater competition and 64 percent citing defaults and credit losses as
Inside the Decisions That Shape Hiring and Careers
Hiring and leadership decisions continue to play an increasingly important role in shaping both individual careers and organizational performance. As companies navigate tighter talent markets, rapid technological change, and evolving expectations around leadership, greater attention is being placed on how executives identify high performers, assess potential, and make decisions about who is ready for greater
ON Partners Recruits Board Members for Artisan Industries
Partners Seth Harris and Shawn Oglesbee of ON Partners have assisted in the recruitment of Stephen S. Schwartz and Gary A. Doyon as new members of the board of directors of Artisan Industries. The addition of two independent directors strengthens the company’s governance and strategic leadership, as Artisan expands its core technologies into high-growth markets, including specialty chemicals, PFAS removal, drug
Reffett Associates Seeking Vice President of Development for the Army Historical Foundation
WA-based Reffett Associates was recently retained by the Army Historical Foundation to recruit its next vice president of development. The Army Historical Foundation is the non-profit organization that supports the National Museum of the United States Army, which honors the service and sacrifice of American soldiers throughout the Army’s history. The vice president of development will play
DHR Global Expands Middle East and Africa Presence
Talent advisory firm DHR Global has expanded with the addition of Michael Patrick Okumu-Ringa as managing partner, Middle East and Africa. Based in Dubai, he will lead the expansion of DHR’s regional business, building its team and strengthening its executive search and leadership advisory capabilities while connecting regional clients with international talent in partnership with DHR’s London office. “The
Talentfoot Grows HR Practice
Talentfoot Executive Search has expanded with the addition of Gabe Peacock as associate partner, helping drive the continued growth of the firm’s human resources practice. “With Gabe joining the team, Talentfoot is continuing to expand our ability to support clients in finding HR leaders who can solve complex people challenges, strengthen culture, scale people operations,
Artico Search Founders Reflect on Five Years of Growth and Lessons Learned
Five years after its founding, Artico Search has grown from a two-person venture into a boutique executive search firm serving venture capital, private equity-backed, and publicly traded companies. Founded in 2021 by Mercedes Chatfield-Taylor, CEO and co-founder, and Matt Comyns, president and co-founder, the firm has built its business around emerging technology, with particular depth
Caldwell Sells IQTalent Partners to WinMil for $4.7 Million
Toronto-based Caldwell has completed the sale of substantially all of the net operating assets of its wholly owned subsidiary, IQTalent Partners, Inc., to WinMil, Inc. WinMil will continue to operate the business under the IQTalent name and brand. In 2020, Caldwell acquired IQTalent to broaden its service offerings into technology-enabled recruiting solutions at the professional level.
WittKieffer Selected by Park University for President Search
Oak Brook, IL-based WittKieffer has been retained by Park University to lead in its search for a new president. Consultant Alejandra Gillette-Teran, principal Melody Rose and associate Sarah Seavey are spearheading the assignment for the search firm. Reporting to an engaged board of trustees, the president will be expected to grow the University into the future. The president provides leadership in
NPAG Leading Executive Director Search for SEAL
Executive search firm NPAG was recently retained by SEAL (Sobrato Early Academic Language) to lead in its search for a new executive director. Allison Kupfer Poteet, managing partner, is leading the search along with Alejandra Villa, managing associate. The organization seeks a strong enterprise leader with strategic and financial acumen, experience leading through change, and genuine credibility
August Leadership Appoints Senior Advisor in Tokyo
August Leadership has named Paul Dupuis as senior advisor in Tokyo. “We are delighted to have Paul join August Leadership,” the firm said in a LinkedIn post. “His experience will add significant depth as we aim to strengthen our presence and relationships in Japan, alongside our broader APAC capabilities.” With more than 30 years of leadership
C-Suite Volatility Reshapes Talent Market, Creating Expanding Role for Search Firms
Crist|Kolder Associates’ latest 2026 Mid-Year Volatility Report provides a detailed look at leadership trends across 665 Fortune 500 and S&P 500 companies. Tracking executive changes through July 31, the research examines CEO, CFO, and COO turnover, career paths, diversity, and the emergence of new leadership positions as organizations adapt to an increasingly complex business environment.
The McCormick Group Completes Searches for Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies
The McCormick Group, an Arlington, VA-based executive recruitment firm, has assisted in the recruitment of Rodney Whitlock, Debbie Curtis, Katie Waldo, and Maddie News to the federal health policy practice of Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies, the bipartisan government relations and communications affiliate of international law firm Cozen O’Connor. The search was led by principal David
Krauthamer & Associates Selected by Regional Transportation District for CEO Search
Krauthamer & Associates (K&A) has been retained by the Regional Transportation District (RTD) in Denver, CO, to lead in its search for a new CEO. “RTD seeks a CEO who can continue strengthening the agency’s fiscal foundation, drive long‑range funding solutions, and guide RTD through budget challenges while advancing innovation, equity, transit service delivery and the
BrainWorks Grows Legal Practice
Warren, NJ-based executive search firm BrainWorks has named Rachel Chandler as director of legal recruitment. “With nearly two decades of experience spanning law, legal recruitment, and business development, Rachel brings an exceptional depth of expertise and a unique perspective to our team,” Brainworks said in a LinkedIn post. “From practicing corporate law to leading legal recruiting teams,
Boyden Forms Alliance with South African firm Tuesday Consulting
Boyden has formed a partnership with South African firm Tuesday Consulting, an executive search and advisory firm helping clients drive growth through sustainable human capital resourcing practices. The partnership will be led by seasoned industry executives Wendy Spalding and Tsholofelo Nketane, along with a team of nine professionals from Tuesday Consulting. “Partnering with Tuesday Consulting represents an
Leadership in Uncertain Times: How Executives Adapt
Leadership has always required navigating change, but today’s executives operate in an environment where geopolitical developments, economic uncertainty, and evolving market expectations can quickly reshape business priorities. This places renewed attention on how leaders set direction, strengthen organizational resilience and prepare their businesses for an uncertain future. According to the latest Kestria Global Leadership Barometer, geopolitical
Excel Search & Advisory Leading Search for Next WNBA Commissioner
The WNBA has begun the search for its next commissioner as the league prepares for a leadership transition at the end of the year. The NBA has retained Excel Search & Advisory, formerly Nolan Partners, to identify a successor to Cathy Engelbert, according to The Athletic. The assignment comes as the league continues to experience
Bryant Group Fills Senior Position for Wabash College
Dallas-based executive search and talent development firm Bryant Group has placed Tyler J. Wade as dean for enrollment management at Wabash College. Mr. Wade, a 2012 Wabash graduate, has served as interim dean since June. This follows a nationwide search led by the firm’s president Chris Bingley. “One of the things that made him stand out in the field
Leathwaite Continues Partnership with St Marylebone School
London-based executive search firm Leathwaite is continuing its long-standing partnership with St Marylebone School in London, supporting students as they prepare for the next stages of their academic and professional journeys. The firm said the program is part of its community engagement efforts and reflects its commitment to social mobility and widening access to opportunity. St
AI Is Rewriting the Executive Hiring Playbook
Insight Partners’ latest research suggests the AI era is creating a new executive hiring playbook. Based on more than 400 executive searches and interviews with over 1,400 leadership candidates, the firm’s talent team argues that many of the characteristics defining today’s strongest product and engineering leaders would have been viewed as weaknesses only a few years
Unemployment Rate Holds Steady at 4.2 Percent
Employment rose by 139,000 in May as the U.S. unemployment was unchanged at 4.2 percent, according to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report. Employment continued to trend up in healthcare, leisure and hospitality, and social assistance. Federal government continued to lose jobs. The number of unemployed people, at 7.2 million, changed little over
Leading Through Uncertain Times
If you had to pick one adjective to describe all that is happening in the world right now, there is a strong chance – if not a high certainty – that you would pick the word uncertainty, says Tim Gardner of Teamalytics in a new report. “The stock market is volatile and, as a result, is uncertain,” Mr. Gardner said. “Restructuring
Korn Ferry Retained by Orbis International for CEO Search
Korn Ferry was recently retained by Orbis International to lead in its search for a new president and CEO. This executive is responsible for providing vision, inspiration, and leadership to ensure the organization innovates and continues to deliver impactful programs and services to meet the needs of our global community and fulfil our mission. In collaboration
Arts Consulting Group Finds New Leader for the San Francisco Jazz Organization
Following an extensive nationwide search, Boston-based search firm Arts Consulting Group (ACG) has placed Gabrielle Armand as the new CEO of the San Francisco Jazz Organization (SFJAZZ). She will succeed Susie Medak, who has served as interim CEO since December 2024. Vice presidents Geoff Chang and Josyanne Roche led the assignment. In partnership with executive artistic director Terence Blanchard, Ms. Armand will lead the dynamic
Buffkin / Baker Assists Fort Lewis College with the Recruitment of 11th President
Partner-led executive search firm Buffkin / Baker has assisted in the recruitment of Heather J. Shotton as the 11th president of Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO. Partner Ann Yates and associate partner Pelema Ellis led the assignment. After a six-month search, the presidential search committee chose Dr. Shotton from more than 75 applicants. “Dr. Shotton brings a wealth of experience and a deep
Kirk Palmer Associates Recruits CFO for Fossil Group
Retail-focused executive search firm Kirk Palmer Associates has placed Randy Greben as chief financial officer of Fossil Group. The search was led by Kyle Rudy, Karen Ouchterloney, and Kerry Scott. He replaces Andrew Skobe, interim CFO. The appointment reinforces Fossil Group’s continued commitment to building its leadership team to drive long-term profitable growth. “We are thrilled to welcome
Wilson Appoints CFO
Global talent solutions provider Wilson Human Capital Group (Wilson) has named Audrey Lara as its new CFO. “We’re thrilled to have Audrey on board,” said John Wilson, CEO of Wilson. “Her knack for driving financial and operational excellence, coupled with her ability to build inclusive, high-performing teams, will be key as we continue to grow and innovate. Audrey’s strategic mindset
The Culture Edge: Driving Enterprise Performance
As businesses navigate constant change, the influence of corporate culture on organizational success is unmistakable. Companies are increasingly aware that a vibrant, adaptable culture is more than a “nice-to-have”—it’s a critical driver of employee engagement, retention, and overall performance. Recent findings reveal that 89 percent of highly engaged employees recognize their organization’s culture as a positive
Effective Strategies for Scaling Middle Management in PE-Backed Companies
When private equity firms invest in a company, their first order of business is often to secure the right CEO—and sometimes a CFO—to drive the value creation plan. But what comes next is equally critical and far too often overlooked: scaling middle management, according to a recent report from Denver, CO-based TriSearch. “Without the right VPs,
The Christopher Group Recruits CHRO for Belt Power
The Christopher Group (TCG), a boutique HR executive search and business solutions recruiting firm, has assisted in the recruitment of Jessica Johnston as the new chief human resources officer of Belt Power in Marietta, GA. Pam Noble led the assignment along with Morgan Booker. “Jessica is a powerhouse HR leader who brings the strategic mindset and operational discipline needed
BroadView Talent Partners Recruits CEO for Avesta Housing
BroadView Talent Partners has helped to recruit Jennifer Hawkins as the new president and CEO of Avesta Housing in Portland, ME. The assignment was led by Tracy McMillan, Melania DaSilva Deaver, Donna Young, Robyn Quinn, and Elizabeth Keyser. “Jennifer’s leadership is defined by innovation, strategic vision, and a powerful dedication to meeting community needs through affordable housing and housing
Trinity Bridge Expands to Germany
U.K.-based executive search firm Trinity Bridge has expanded into Germany with the appointment of Stephanie Watzek as managing director for the region to support its continued growth in Central Europe. Launched in the U.K. in 2022 by Sam Seigler, Trinity Bridge was inspired by Mr. Siegler’s vision to build an executive search firm with deep-rooted sector
New 2025 Report Highlights Tech Executive Pay Trends
Executive compensation goes beyond negotiation—it’s a strategic tool for driving growth, retaining talent, and maintaining a competitive edge. Understanding your executives’ value can be the key to securing top talent instead of losing them to rivals. Riviera Partners’ 2025 Executive Compensation Report, exclusively available to Riviera’s client and partner network, offers valuable insights into the
Why Your Work Won’t Speak for Itself in a Hybrid World
A hybrid or remote-first work environment prioritizes flexibility by allowing employees to work from various locations, often combining home and office settings. This model supports better work-life balance and can lead to increased productivity and employee satisfaction. It also enables companies to access a broader talent pool unconstrained by geographic limitations. However, in a hybrid
ExecSearches Assists PKD-Free Alliance with Chief Implementation and Operations Officer Search
ExecSearches has assisted in the recruitment of Kevin Schnurr as the first chief implementation and operations officer (CIOO) of PKD-Free Alliance, a non-profit dedicated to generational health and a PKD-free future. F. Jay Hall, managing director, and Karen Alphonse, senior search solutions leader, led the executive recruitment process. “May 2025 marks 11 years since I donated a
Preng & Associates Assists Jadestone Energy with CEO Search
Houston-based Preng & Associates has helped to recruit Mitchell Little as the new CEO of Jadestone Energy in Singapore. “We are very pleased that Mitch is joining Jadestone as CEO,” said Adel Chaouch, executive chairman of Jadestone. “He brings significant upstream operational and management experience from over three decades in the oil and gas industry with Marathon. His
True Expands Non-Profit & Social Impact Practice
Global talent provider True has expanded its non-profit & social impact practice with the strategic addition of Gautam Raghavan. An accomplished public servant and talent strategist, Mr. Raghavan most recently served as director of the White House Office of presidential personnel under the Biden-Harris administration. “Gautam is intimately familiar with public service, which gives him a unique understanding of the challenges
Rethinking Talent For Every Phase Of The PE Lifecycle
Private equity is entering a phase where ‘one-size-fits-all’ leadership is no longer viable. As deal timelines stretch and growth becomes harder to manufacture, firms are looking to build executive teams that can evolve alongside the business. “Talent strategies must be adaptable to a changing economic climate and the ever-evolving business needs,” said Ellie O’Brien Coleman,
Academic Career & Executive Search Recruits CEO for CHESS (Collaborative for Higher Education Shared Services)
Following a national search, Academic Career & Executive Search (ACES) has placed Shaun McAlmont as CEO of CHESS (Collaborative for Higher Education Shared Services). He will succeed founding CEO Kathy Ulibarri, who will retire after guiding CHESS from its formation in 2021 to its emergence as a national model for shared services in higher education. Jennifer
Coulter Partners Places Biotech Entrepreneur as CEO of Nuage Therapeutics
Life sciences recruiting specialist Coulter Partners has assisted in the recruitment of Stuart Hughes as CEO of Nuage Therapeutics. “Coulter Partners has been an invaluable partner in this crucial appointment for Nuage Therapeutics,” said Vanessa Malier, chair of the board of directors of Nuage Therapeutics. “Their team demonstrated exceptional dedication and a truly collaborative spirit, working closely
Diversified Search Group (DSG Global) | Koya Partners Leading Executive Director Search for the John Paul Stevens Foundation
Diversified Search Group (DSG Global) | Koya Partners was recently retained by the John Paul Stevens Foundation to lead in its search for a new executive director. Molly Brennan, global managing partner and non-profit and social impact practice leader, and Gina Wrolstad Kueber, senior associate, are leading the assignment. This is an exciting opportunity help guide the foundation
AltoPartners Elects New Global Chair
AltoPartners, an international alliance of boutique executive search and leadership consulting firms, has appointed Santiago Solis Arias as new global chair. He becomes the first global chair from the Americas, marking a new chapter for the global executive search partnership. Mr. Solis Arias succeeds Sonal Agrawal, who has served with distinction and led the partnership through
The Future of Healthcare Leadership: AI, Innovation & Talent
The healthcare and life sciences industries are undergoing a major transformation, driven by advancements in AI, machine learning, and digital innovation. These technologies are reshaping drug discovery, patient care, and operational efficiency, requiring leaders who can harness innovation while optimizing complex systems. As competition for top talent intensifies, organizations are prioritizing executives with strong business
How Good is Your Company at Hiring?
Most companies recognize that talent is essential to success, and that being highly effective at hiring is one of the most vital skills for any organization and its leaders. Yet, hiring remains one of the weakest areas within many companies. A breakdown occurs in the interface between the people who are tasked with recruiting and
Peña Search Recruits CFO for Visit Dallas
Peña Search has assisted in the recruitment of Kathie Parsons as the new CFO of Visit Dallas. Travis Hillier and Cindy Maloney led the assignment. “Kathie brings to our organization a superb financial track record of transparency, accountability and collaboration,” said Craig Davis, president and CEO of Visit Dallas. “Her experience and strategic vision will be invaluable as we continue
Pender & Howe Tapped by Covenant Health for COO Search
Toronto-based Pender & Howe Executive Search has been retained to lead the search for a chief operating officer, acute & primary care for Covenant Health. The search is being spearheaded by managing principal Glenn Lesko. The COO at Covenant Health will play a pivotal role in shaping the delivery of acute and primary health services within
IIC Partners Adds New Member Firm in Greece
IIC Partners Executive Search Worldwide has added Athens, Greece-based Searchlight Partners as its newest member firm. “We are delighted to welcome Searchlight Partners into membership,” said Christine Hayward, executive director of IIC Partners. “They bring deep expertise in executive search and people strategy, and a solid track record in the technology, professional services, and life sciences
Hudson Global and Star Equity Holdings Join Forces
Star Equity Holdings (Star) and Hudson Global, a global total talent solutions provider operating under the brand name Hudson RPO, have inked a definitive merger agreement. Pursuant to the merger, Star will merge with and into a wholly owned subsidiary of Hudson to form “NewCo”. “We are pleased to announce the signing of this merger
Newland Associates Recruits CEO for Hope & Help
Lake Mary, FL-based executive search firm Newland Associates has assisted with the recruitment of Thresa Giles as the new CEO of Hope & Help in Winter Park, FL. Vanessa Abreu, director of recruiting, led the assignment. “We’re honored to share these kind words from Thresa Giles, CEO of Hope & Help, about her experience working with
Vetted Solutions Assists the Architects Foundation with Executive Director Search
Washington, D.C.- based Vetted Solutions has placed Jennifer Calvert Hall as the new executive director with the Architects Foundation, the philanthropic partner of the American Institute of Architects AIA. She was identified following a highly competitive national search and brings extensive experience in fundraising and nonprofit management. “I believe that the appointment of Jennifer Calvert Hall as our new
Bryant Group Retained by HonorHealth Foundation for Two Assignments
Dallas-based executive search and talent development firm Bryant Group has been retained by HonorHealth Foundation to lead in its searches for a senior vice president of finance and senior vice president of communications and donor relations. Both searches are led by Sarah Hempen, vice president of search. Reporting directly to the president and CEO, the SVP







