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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.
Caldwell Expands in London and Madrid
Toronto-based Caldwell has expanded with the addition of Alex Langridge as a partner in the firm’s financial services practice. Based in London, Mr. Langridge advises clients across financial services and fintech on senior executive and board appointments, succession planning, organizational design, and transformational leadership hiring. “Alex’s appointment reflects our continued investment in expanding Caldwell’s financial
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?
Fama Technologies Granted U.S. Patent on Foundational AI-Powered Social Media Screening Technology
Fama Technologies, providers of AI-powered online screening, has announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has allowed all claims in its patent application covering the foundational technology behind social media background screening. The patent, titled “System for Searching and Correlating Online Activity with Individual Classification Factors,” has a priority date of November
Updating How You Work So AI Can Actually Deliver
AI adoption is no longer a technology challenge, it is an operational one. Companies that generate lasting value from AI will be the ones willing to redesign workflows, redefine leadership responsibilities, and embed AI directly into how work gets done every day. Most companies will not fail at AI because they chose the wrong model,
Vetted Solutions Assists CoreNet Global with CEO Search
Following an extensive search process, Washington, D.C.-based Vetted Solutions has assisted in the recruitment of Vicki Worden as the new CEO of CoreNet Global. “Vicki Worden demonstrates exemplary leadership through her collaborative approach,” said Jamie Leary-Erickson, CoreNet Global board chair. “Vicki’s extensive experience in the architecture, engineering, and commercial real estate sectors, combined with her global perspective
BarkerGilmore Places Head of Legal at Vantage Elevator Solutions
Boutique search firm BarkerGilmore, which specializes in building corporate legal and compliance teams, has placed Keinan Meginniss as VP, head of legal at Vantage Elevator Solutions. The search was led by Stephen Bell and Alison Waters. “Keinan joins the organization at an exciting time as the company continues to expand its operations and strengthen its leadership team
NGS Global Adds TalentXera
Wilmington, DE-headquartered executive search firm NGS Global has added Saúl Almendárez and his team at TalentXera. This expands the firm’s capabilities across Mexico and the broader Latin America region. Mr. Almendárez is based in Mexico City, where he has spent more than 20 years building an exceptional team and a highly regarded brand in the executive search industry. Along
IMD International Search Group Elects New Board Members
Global executive search consortium IMD International Search Group recently had delegates from member firms meet in Helsinki, Finland, and announced the election of several board members. Ben Tucker (Minerva, IMD U.K.) transitions from director to VP finance and legal. Eva Nielsen (Lisberg, IMD Sweden) is reelected for a second mandate as director while Terhi Heikkinen (IMS Talent,
Hunt Scanlon and HSiQ Launch Recruiter Performance Training Program
The executive search industry has a training challenge. For years, recruiting firms have depended on apprenticeship-style development, learning through observation, informal mentoring, and varying management approaches. That model works for some, but it does not scale effectively. In a market increasingly shaped by AI, speed, precision, and commercial demands, inconsistent recruiter performance is no longer
Executive Search Firms Confront the AI Transformation
As AI rapidly reshapes the executive search landscape, recruiting firms are facing growing pressure to modernize how they identify, assess, and engage leadership talent. Industry experts say AI-driven sourcing, predictive analytics, and automation tools are helping firms accelerate search timelines and expand candidate reach, while also forcing recruiters to rethink where their true value lies.
Cooper Coleman Recruits CFO the Center for Child Protection
Cooper Coleman LLC has placed William Wade as chief financial officer of the Center for Child Protection (CCP) in Austin, TX. The national search was led by Johnny Cooper, founder and CEO of Cooper Coleman. “Dion brings the kind of strategic thinking and mission alignment CCP needs in its CFO,” said Mr. Cooper. “They are doing remarkable work,
Boyden Assists Kerry’s Place Autism Services with CEO Search
Boyden has recruited Normandie Wragg as the new president and CEO of Kerry’s Place Autism Services in Ontario. The appointment follows the previously announced retirement of CEO Susan VanDeVelde-Coke at the end of June. The search was led by partners Jim Stonehouse and Pamela Colquhoun, and Kathy Luu, senior associate. “Normandie is a highly accomplished, values-driven
Modern Executive Solutions Expands Technology Practice
Atlanta-based talent consultancy Modern Executive Solutions has expanded with the addition of Moises Velilla as managing director in its technology practice. He brings deep experience advising organizations on senior leadership hiring and talent strategy across technology and transformation. Mr. Velilla specializes in advising clients on executive talent strategy and recruiting transformative technology and professional services leaders. He
AI’s Next Test: Can It Actually Drive Growth?
A massive opportunity, and a critical trust gap, is emerging among corporate leaders. According to EY-Parthenon’s Growth Survey of 271 U.S. executives, 78 percent believe AI will accelerate growth, even as nearly 80 percent say the growth environment has become more challenging over the past year. Yet only about a third trust AI inputs for high-stakes decisions such
Retained vs. Contingent Search: Choosing the Right Executive Search Model
As companies navigate increasingly complex leadership challenges, the pressure to make the right executive hiring decision has never been greater. Boards and leadership teams are looking beyond resumes and credentials, placing greater emphasis on cultural alignment, long-term business impact, and a candidate’s ability to guide organizations through growth, transformation, and uncertainty. At the same time,
Brettschneider Executive Search Completes Search for Western Colorado University
New York City-based Brettschneider Executive Search recently assisted in the recruitment of Sharoni Little as dean of Western Colorado University’s School of Business. “Dr. Little’s forward-thinking approach will help shape the future of business education at Western, creating opportunities for students to thrive in today’s competitive economy,” said Brad Baca, president. With a career spanning academia, corporate leadership,
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
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
What to Look for When Hiring an Executive Search Firm
Securing the right leadership talent can shape an organization’s strategic direction for years, making the choice of a search partner an important business decision. As companies compete for experienced executives who can drive growth, manage complexity, and guide transformation, many are turning to specialized firms that focus exclusively on identifying and attracting senior leaders. Understanding
WittKieffer Launches Global Emerging Sciences Practice
Oak Brook-IL-based WittKieffer has launched a new global emerging sciences practice dedicated exclusively to supporting organizations at the forefront of foundational scientific research and translating such research into therapeutic realities. This new practice builds on the firm’s longstanding work with research centers worldwide and their essential connectivity to commercial life sciences and healthcare delivery. “WittKieffer’s heritage as
Christian & Timbers Reports a 2.1 Percent Increase in C-Suite Compensation Among PE- Backed Tech Companies
Christian & Timbers has released its report titled Analysis of C-Suite Compensation Trends at Private-Equity Backed Tech Companies, part of its executive pay in focus series. This analysis is based on proprietary compensation data from 2024, encompassing over 100 PE-backed companies and more than 400 executives. The data includes information on base salaries, bonuses, and
Carrington & Carrington Recruits CHRO for UCare
Nate Jackson of Carrington & Carrington Diversity Executive Search has assisted in the recruitment of Tamara Pinckney as chief human resources officer at UCare. The Carrington & Carrington team gathered input from UCare stakeholders, marketed the position to the CHRO community, and sourced and screened several qualified candidates to establish a substantial talent pool for UCare’s
Massey Henry Fills Chief Risk Officer Position for Peoples Group
A chief risk officer is crucial for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks that could jeopardize an organization’s financial stability, reputation, and compliance with regulations. They provide a strategic, organization-wide view of risks, enabling informed decision-making and fostering a culture of risk awareness. Identifying chief risk officers has kept executive search firms busy in recently months.
Odgers Berndtson Names Head of Scale Up Collective U.S.
Odgers Berndtson has appointed Rupert Lion as partner, technology practice and head of Scale Up Collective U.S. “We are excited to welcome Rupert to our team during this pivotal moment for the tech industry, marked by unprecedented innovation,” said Kennon Kincaid, CEO, Odgers Berndtson U.S. “Rupert will make an immediate impact, ensuring our clients have access to
Protis Global Appoints SVP of Business Development
Protis Global has expanded with the addition of Brian Smith as senior vice president of business development leading the adult beverage team. “We are excited to welcome Brian to our team,” said Bert Miller, chairman and CEO at Protis Global. “His unique blend of industry knowledge and commitment to building relationships will be instrumental in driving success for
Unlocking Potential: How AI Coaching and Strategy Are Transforming Personal and Business Growth
In an era where time is precious and personal development is increasingly valued, AI coaching has emerged as a powerful tool to accelerate goal achievement and personal growth. By combining real-time insights, data-driven strategies, and personalized guidance, AI coaching platforms and applications offer users an experience that is both customized and scalable, according to a
Vetted Solutions Assists the Association of Executive Search and Leadership Consultants with CEO Search
Washington, D.C.- based Vetted Solutions has helped to place James Edmund Datri as the new president and CEO of the Association of Executive Search and Leadership Consultants (AESC). He will start his new position at the beginning of 2025. An accomplished leader with a track record of transforming and elevating professional organizations, Mr. Datri was selected following a rigorous
Nexus Search Partners Recruits President and CEO for McColl Center
Following a comprehensive national search, Nexus Search Partners has helped to recruit Asa Jackson as the new president and CEO for McColl Center. “Jackson, a multidisciplinary artist and accomplished arts leader, emerged as the top candidate after a nationwide search conducted by McColl Center’s board of directors in partnership with Nexus Search Partners,” the organization
Kincannon & Reed Fills CEO Position for Topigs Norsvin
Executive recruitment firm Kincannon & Reed, which exclusively focuses on food, agribusiness, and the related life sciences, has assisted in the recruitment of Dick Hordijk as the new CEO of Topigs Norsvin. Principals Attila von Hankó and Michael Whitney led the assignment. ‘’We are very pleased with the appointment of Dick,” said Mark Tijssen, chairman of the
The Christopher Group Launches Continuum Talent Solutions
The Christopher Group (TCG), a boutique HR executive search and business solutions recruiting firm, has launched Continuum Talent Solutions, a new platform designed to empower independent executive search consultants. Continuum offers a seamless, end-to-end solution for consultants with established client relationships who aspire to run their own business without the complexities of back-office operations. “With the highest commission structure in
Achieving True Diversity: The Power of Inclusion and Evidence-Based Recruitment Strategies
Mercuri Urval is a global executive search and talent advisory firm headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden. The firm was founded in 1967. Today, Mercuri Urval works with more than 3,000 clients – across all sectors – in over 70 countries every year. It is the only global executive search and leadership advisory firm based in the
Noetic Search Tapped by Hands Across the Sea to Find New Leader
Chicago-headquartered executive search firm Noetic Search has been selected by Hands Across the Sea to lead in its search for an executive director. This leader will play a crucial role in driving the organization’s mission forward, overseeing program development, managing partnerships, and fostering community engagement to make a lasting impact. The executive director will also manage the
Cooper Coleman Seeking COO and Chief Philanthropy Officer for the East Coast Zoological Foundation
Chicago-based Cooper Coleman LLC has been retained by the East Coast Zoological Foundation (ECZF) to lead searches for the organization’s first chief operating officer and their next chief philanthropy officer. This strategic expansion is integral to ECZF’s continued impact on conservation and community engagement, encompassing Brevard Zoo and the new Aquarium campus in Port Canaveral. “ECZF is a
The Moran Company Seeking New Leader for Ascendigo Autism Services
The non-profit sector is appealing because it offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on important social issues and contribute to positive change in communities, according to executive recruiters. Additionally, working in this sector often fosters a strong sense of purpose and personal fulfillment by aligning your career with your values and passions. This
Intersearch Worldwide Launches Sustainability Practice
InterSearch Worldwide, a global alliance of executive search companies, has launched its sustainability practice group. “This initiative marks a significant milestone in our commitment to not only guiding our clients toward sustainable success but also embedding sustainability within our own operations,” InterSearch said. “As businesses worldwide face unprecedented environmental, social, and governance (ESG) challenges, the role
A Look at the Trends Impacting Executive Search Today
Recruiting top talent today is more complex than ever. Return to work, the ban on non-competes, and the critical importance of company culture are changing the way we approach executive search. But these are not the only factors influencing recruiting practices, according to Alissa Henriksen, co-founder and co-president of Grey Search + Strategy. “More trends
JM Search Recruits CEO for unWired Broadband
JM Search, a senior-level talent provider serving private equity investors, portfolio companies, and Fortune 1000s, has assisted in the recruitment of Matt Murphy as the new CEO of O2 Investment Partners-backed unWired Broadband in Fresno, CA. John Warrack and Jerry K. Fong led the assignment. “The appointment of Matt Murphy marks a new chapter in unWired’s
Lindauer Leading Chief Development Officer Search for the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
Lindauer was recently tapped by the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra (PSO) to lead in its search for a senior vice president and chief development officer. The assignment is being led by Libby Roberts, senior executive vice president, and Josh Maker, senior consultant. The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra is looking for a strategic and visionary chief development officer to lead
DRiWaterstone Human Capital Seeking Chief People Officer for the Union of Concerned Scientists
Arlington, VA-based DRiWaterstone Human Capital was recently retained by the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) to lead in its search for a chief people officer. Doug Trout, CEO of DRiWaterstone, is leading the assignment. The chief people officer is responsible for developing and executing human capital strategy in support of the organization’s plan and strategic direction, specifically
The Forum Group Appoints Practice Director for Boston
New York City-based recruiting firm The Forum Group has expanded with the addition of Matt Swett as the new practice director for Boston. In his new position, Mr. Swett lead the firm’s accounting and finance recruitment initiatives across the region, playing a key part in boosting its presence in Massachusetts. “Matt’s strong performance record and
Top 5 Hiring Trends for 2025
Whether you’re planning your talent acquisition goals or headcount forecasts, it helps to know the latest hiring trends. For instance, labor market dynamics shifted in employers’ favor in 2024, with workers more willing to remain in their current roles, strengthening talent retention, according to figures from LHH. But LHH’s research suggests this change in employee sentiment
Counteroffers in Focus: Risks, Realities, and the Road to Retention Success
When hiring executives, a counteroffer is a proposal made by an executive’s current employer to retain them after they have received an offer from another organization. It usually includes incentives like a higher salary, enhanced benefits, or a promotion to persuade the executive to stay. Counteroffers are a strategic move by the current employer to
m/Oppenheim Executive Search Recruits CEO for the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation
Non-profit recruitment firm m/Oppenheim Executive Search has recruited Blake-Anthony Johnson as the new CEO of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation (NOJHFF). Don Marshall, who announced his retirement last year, will serve as a valuable resource to Johnson and staff during this transition. Mark Oppenheim, Dennis Hanthorn, Kevin Reddick, and Lee Kappelman led the assignment.
Allen Austin Recruits CEO for Stress Engineering Services
Houston, TX-based search firm Allen Austin has helped to recruit Justin Jarski as the new CEO of Stress Engineering Services, Inc. “This momentous hire marks the first time the company has selected an external candidate for this role, signaling an exciting new era of leadership,” the search firm said. “Justin brings a wealth of experience and a long-standing
Ernst & Young Acquires Jubilant
Ernst & Young (EY) has acquired Jubilant, an HR technology consultancy focused on implementing and supporting human capital management, payroll and workforce management systems. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. “By welcoming Jubilant, EY U.S. gains even more credibility and capabilities within the HR technology and transformation business of our People Consulting practice,”
The Power of Executive Search: Redefining Leadership Recruitment for Lasting Success
Executive search is a tailored recruitment service dedicated to sourcing and securing top executive talent for leadership roles across the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Unlike conventional hiring practices that depend on job boards or internal referrals, executive search provides a strategic, consultative approach to acquiring high-caliber leadership professionals. What sets executive search apart is
Cultivating Talent for Relevance in the Fourth Industrial Revolution
The fourth industrial revolution is happening now. Building on the foundation of the third industrial revolution—which was defined by advancements in cloud computing, big data, social media, e-commerce, and mobile technology—a new wave has emerged. This era is marked by the rise of the Internet of Things, 3D printing, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology, according a
SearchWide Global Tapped by Visit Estes Park to Lead CEO Search
Executive recruitment firm SearchWide Global was recently retained by Visit Estes Park in Colorado to lead in its search for a new CEO. Senior vice president Kellie Henderson is leading the assignment. Visit Estes Park is seeking an outgoing, supportive, and motivating leader to serve as the new CEO. The CEO is responsible for the efficient administration of
Herbert Mines Fills Another Board Position for Vera Bradley
New York-based retail and consumer focused executive search firm Herbert Mines Associates has helped to recruit Ian Bickley as a new member of the board of director at NASDAQ-traded Vera Bradley, Inc. “We are pleased to welcome Ian to our board,” said Jacqueline Ardrey, president and CEO of Vera Bradley and an executive member of the company’s board. “Ian’s
Riviera Partners Launches Gaming, Entertainment, Media, and Sports Practice
San Francisco-based Riviera Partners, a recruitment provider specializing in C-level engineering, product, and design leader placements, has launched its gaming, entertainment, media, and sports practice. The new practice will be led by Greg Sherman, who joins the firm as a partner, and Matt Skiba, who returns to Riviera as a partner after a decade in executive
