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Kincannon & Reed Assists Ritchie Industries with CEO Search
Kincannon & Reed (K&R), which exclusively focuses on food, agribusiness, and the related life sciences, has recruited Chad Huyser as the new CEO of Ritchie Industries, a manufacturer of livestock watering solutions and a portfolio company of Granite Creek Capital Partners. “Ritchie Industries needed a leader who could respect its heritage while advancing the business
Herbert Mines Associates Fills Operations Post for Guitar Center
New York-based retail and consumer focused executive search firm Herbert Mines Associates has placed Kinna Thomas as SVP, merchandising operations & musician’s friend of Guitar Center, the world’s largest retailer of musical instruments. “Kinna is a results-oriented leader with extensive retail management experience in manufacturing, planning, replenishment, and buying,” the company said. “She’s excited to join the
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
A New Role For HR: Powering Growth, Not Just Managing Talent
According to McLean & Company’s HR Trends Report 2026: Leading Through Change: Human-Centric and Future Ready, HR organizations are being pulled into the center of enterprise transformation as companies grapple with relentless change driven by AI adoption, economic pressure, and shifting employee expectations. Leadership development remains the top priority for HR, but innovation has surged to
Heidrick & Struggles Unveils 2025 Global and Regional Leadership Appointments
Executive search, leadership consulting, and culture shaping services provider Heidrick & Struggles has announced key global and regional leader appointments, effective January 1, 2025. The appointed leaders will continue advancing the firm’s objective of delivering exceptional value to clients by fostering differentiated, deep, and durable relationships. “Having the right leadership in place is increasingly crucial to business performance,
Why Soft Skills Still Rule the C-Suite in the Age of AI
In an era dominated by technological advancements and artificial intelligence, it might be tempting to believe that machines can replace human leadership. However, the essence of effective leadership lies in a unique blend of soft skills that transcend AI’s capabilities, according to a new report from Kestria. “While technical expertise is undoubtedly necessary, it is
University of Florida Calls in SP&A Executive Search to Help Find Next President
SP&A Executive Search has been retained by the University of Florida to lead in its search for its 14th president. The school selected the search firm that led the efforts that found former president Ben Sasse, as well as the University of South Florida and Florida State University’s presidents. “The search committee is advisory and will
Vetted Solutions Recruits CEO for CoreNet Global
Following an extensive search process, Washington, D.C.- based Vetted Solutions has recruited Scott Wiley as the new CEO of CoreNet Global. Angela Cain recently stepped down. “Scott Wiley is the ideal candidate to assume the CEO of CoreNet Global and lead us into the future,” said David Chang, CoreNet Global board chair. “Scott’s visionary leadership and experience
Pacific International Fills Senior Marketing and Communications Role for the American Bakers Association
London-headquartered executive search firm Pacific International has recently assisted in the recruitment of Anne Fairfield-Sonn as director of marketing and communications for the American Bakers Association (ABA). This strategic hire will strengthen ABA’s ability to deliver results for the industry under its new strategic plan. “Working with Pacific International was an absolute pleasure,” said Eric
NGS Global Appoints Managing Partner for the Middle East
Wilmington, DE-headquartered executive search firm NGS Global has expanded with the addition of Julien Abou Khalil as the managing partner for the Middle East based out of the United Arab Emirates. “With Julien’s addition to the NGS Global team, we have continued to reinforce our commitment to attracting the highest caliber partners in the world to lead our initiatives
The Evolving Trends in Employee Engagement for 2025
Employee engagement is essential for an organization to retain and motivate its workforce. When employees feel connected to their work, productivity, innovation, and commitment to company goals rise. A dedicated workforce also supports a positive work culture, encouraging collaboration and proactive problem-solving, according to a recent report from DHR Global. “Moreover, organizations whose employees are
JM Search Recruits CEO for Inventive-Group
JM Search, a senior-level talent provider serving private equity investors, portfolio companies, and Fortune 1000s, has helped to recruit Erik Nelson as the new CEO of Inventive-Group in Mountain Home, ID. Andrew Henry, Jim McGinley, and Tucker Twitmyer led this assignment. “JM Search are honored to have helped with this effort,” the firm said in a LinkedIn
Odgers Berndtson Leading CFO Search for World Energy
Odgers Berndtson was recently called in by World Energy to lead in its search for a new CFO. Emily McGonigle is leading the assignment. “We are delighted to be conducting the search for CFO at World Energy,” Odgers Berndtson said in a LinkedIn post. “This role will involve being a strategic member of the World Energy
Myers McRae Assists Northwest Florida State College with President Search
Kenny Daugherty and Brianna Douglas of Macon, GA-based Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting recently assisted in the recruitment of Melvin Ponder as president of Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC). The announcement followed finalist interviews in November. “The board of trustees thanks all four finalist candidates for participating in our rigorous on-campus interview process,” said Lori Kelley, NWFSC
Signium Opens Office in Dubai
Executive search consortium Signium has opened a new office in Dubai, UAE. This expansion strengthens Signium’s presence in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, complementing its existing Dubai leadership consulting office, led by managing partner Hisham El-Badawy since 2006. The new office is led by search veterans Jon Ashcroft and Mark Holdich, who have joined as managing partners. Together with
Hunt Scanlon’s Top 10 Recruiting Stories of 2024
In 2024, the recruiting industry experienced a mix of challenges and opportunities. Recruiters sought innovative ways to deliver value to their clients, as many firms faced dips in revenues and search activity. Investor-driven market consolidation continued to reshape the landscape. Search consultants faced hurdles such as recession fears, talent shortages, and a candidate-driven market. Meanwhile,
HealthSearch Partners Seeking CHRO for Adventist HealthCare
HealthSearch Partners (HSP) was recently retained by Adventist HealthCare to lead in its search for a new CHRO. Ivan Bartolome, president and CEO of HSP, is leading the assignment. The CHRO is a strategic partner to the CEO and executive team. He/she provides direction on the workforce implications of overall strategy and develops innovative HR solutions
Spencer Stuart Appoints Leader of North America Region
Spencer Stuart recently appointed Miranda Pode as leader of the firm’s North America region. “The exciting opportunities shaping the foundation of our future are often built upon the hard work of those who came before us,” Ms. Pode said in a LinkedIn post. “I want to express my sincere gratitude to Eric Leventhal who continued our
Hunt Scanlon’s Top 10 Search Assignments for 2024
2024 brought challenges across many sectors, but it also showcased the resilience and innovation of top recruiting leaders who rose to meet the moment. Across the board, from non-profits, the Fed, sports teams, research organizations, to start-ups, the Fortune 500, and PE-backed companies, top leaders were in high demand to help steer organizations through significant
Cook Silverman Search Retained by Ploughshares to Recruit Executive Director
Greenbrae, CA-based Cook Silverman Search has been selected by Ploughshares to lead in its hunt for a new executive director. This executive will provide strategic leadership, operational oversight, and guidance across all departments while supporting the president and board chair. This executive-level role involves fostering organizational alignment, developing strategic partnerships, and ensuring the achievement of Ploughshares’ mission
Bradbury-Miller Recruits Executive Director of the Mid York Library System
Executive search firm Bradbury-Miller Associates has assisted in the recruitment of Mandy Travis as the new executive director of the Mid York Library System in Utica, NY. Ms. Travis is an accomplished library professional with over two decades of experience in public library management and development. Most recently, she served as the director of the Northern Onondaga Public
A Look at What is Transforming the Executive Search Landscape
The executive search sector has been undergoing significant transformations. Search consultants tell Hunt Scanlon Media that advancements in AI and data-driven recruitment are reshaping the hiring process. AI tools now streamline candidate sourcing and assessment, while data analytics predict leadership potential and identify the best cultural fit for organizations, according to a report from HR
ON Partners Places CEO at Trafera
Baillie Parker of ON Partners has assisted in the recruitment of Pat Davidson as the new CEO of Trafera, a portfolio company of Rotunda Capital Partners. “We are thrilled to welcome Pat to Trafera,” said Corey Whisner, managing partner at Rotunda. “Trafera is a leading provider of technology solutions to K-12 schools and state and local
HARTZ Search Recruits President of OSF HealthCare, Saint Joseph Medical Center
After an extensive national search, Charlotte, NC-based HARTZ Search has recruited Eunmee Shim as the president of OSF HealthCare, Saint Joseph Medical Center in Peoria, IL. The search was led by chief of staff Gabby Ross, former partner Carol Maxwell, and CEO Mike Hartz. “As president, Eunmee will lead OSF St. Joseph in aligning with the
ADK Consulting & Executive Search Recruits CFO for the City of North Miami Beach
ADK Consulting & Executive Search has placed Tarik Rahmani as chief financial officer for the City of North Miami Beach. The search was led by senior consultant Barry Bratton and senior project manager Kenneth Gwyn. With a career spanning over two decades in local government, Mr. Rahmani has become a key figure in municipal management and
Eastward Partners Appoints Partner
New York-based Eastward Partners has expanded with the addition of Matt Greenberg to its leadership team as partner. “Matt is one of those people who elevates a leadership team in the most impactful way,” said Joe Carbone, CEO of Eastward Partners. “His ability to consume and share information places everyone—our internal team and clients alike—in an elevated position.
Stepping into the Founder’s Shoes: Evaluating Your Internal Leadership Options
CEO succession is crucial because it ensures leadership continuity, aligns the organization’s vision with its future goals, and minimizes disruption during transitions, safeguarding the company’s long-term success. When it comes to founder succession, the stakes are especially high, according to a recent report from leadership advisory firm Egon Zehnder’s Anna Auerbach. So often, the founder
Modern Executive Solutions Assists Members Development Company with CEO Search
After casting a nationwide net for the best candidates, Atlanta-based executive search firm Modern Executive Solutions has assisted in the recruitment of Ned Tobey as the new CEO of Members Development Company (MDC), a future-focused network accelerating credit union success in Madison, WI. He will succeed Jeff Kline, MDC’s CEO since 2007, in January 2025.
Nexus Search Partners Assists Charlotte Regional Business Alliance with Recruiting New COO
Nexus Search Partners, an executive search and advisory firm in Charlotte, NC, has placed Tracy Dodson as chief operating officer and head of economic development for the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance (CLT Alliance). “We’re confident Tracy’s leadership will add tremendous value to the region,” said Thaddeus V. Jones, founder and managing partner of Nexus Search Partners. “Her
Arts Consulting Group Recruits CEO for the Worcester Center for Performing Arts
Boston-based search firm Arts Consulting Group (ACG) has placed Alan Seiffert as the new president and CEO of the Worcester Center for Performing Arts, the non-profit behind The Hanover Theatre & Conservatory for the Performing Arts in Worcester, MA. He will assume his new position on January 1, succeeding Troy Siebels who announced his resignation in June. Mr. Seiffert was selected
Atlantic Group Expands Search Staff
Executive search firm Atlantic Group has expanded with the addition of Kevin Goldman to its legal and compliance division. “We are happy to welcome Kevin Goldman to Atlantic Group’s legal and compliance division,” the firm said in a LinkedIn post. “He is reuniting with senior managing director, Melanie Marshak, with whom he previously worked for two
2025 Hiring Trends: How Strategic HR Management is Shaping the Future of Work
The future of corporate hiring is unfolding rapidly, with 2025 shaping into a transformative year for workforce strategies. As businesses navigate a landscape defined by strategic human resources management, emerging trends such as skills-based hiring, AI-powered recruitment, and hybrid work models reshape how organizations attract and retain talent, according to a new report from Talento. “Strategic human
10 Effective Strategies to Close the Board Diversity Gap
As companies aim to diversify their boardrooms, the slow advancement and persistent gender disparities remain concerning. Insights from The Bedford Group TRANSEARCH’s latest compensation reports further highlight the ongoing need for gender equity in board composition. “Despite widespread acknowledgment of the importance of diverse leadership, many corporations still struggle to bridge the gap in both representation
ZRG Assists Purpose Brands with CEO Search
Global talent advisory firm ZRG has recruited Tom Leverton as the new CEO of Purpose Brands, LLC, the $3.7 billion global wellness holdings company formed by the merger of Orangetheory Fitness and Self Esteem Brands. Dan Searby and Brian Meany led the assignment. “The creation of Purpose Brands gives us the opportunity to move fast and be flexible in
Randstad Digital Appoints CEO
Randstad N.V. has announced that Randstad Digital has named Graig Paglieri as its new CEO effective January 1. He replaces Venu Lambu, who will be leaving Randstad at the end of January. “Graig is a pioneer and proven industry leader in talent services who recognizes that our greatest strength lies in our talented teams,” the company said
