DAILY NEWSWIRE - TOP STORIES
Daily Newswire
DRiWaterstone Human Capital Leading COO Search for Step Up For Students
DRiWaterstone Human Capital was recently tapped by Step Up For Students to lead in its search for a chief operations officer. The COO is a critical role for the transformation and growth of Step Up for Students. Reporting to the chief executive officer, the COO is responsible for leading the organization’s operational teams, including customer experience, scholarship
Peña Search Seeking Philanthropy Lead for The Rees-Jones Foundation
Peña Search has been retained by The Rees-Jones Foundation to lead in its search for a senior director of philanthropy. Travis Hillier and Carlos González Peña are leading the assignment. The Rees-Jones Foundation is seeking a senior director of philanthropy to help lead and advance its mission of serving vulnerable populations through faith-driven, high-impact grantmaking. This is
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
Hunt Scanlon Names Kiko Restrepo Chief Revenue Officer to Drive Next-Stage Growth Across Media, M&A, and Talent Intelligence
Hunt Scanlon Media has tapped Kiko Restrepo to serve as chief revenue officer. In this newly created role, he will be responsible for leading all revenue-generating departments at the company, including sales, marketing, customer success, and partnerships to drive, align, and scale revenue growth. Mr. Restrepo joins Hunt Scanlon from Warner Bros. Discovery where he
Predicting Talent Acquisition Trends for 2025
As organizations navigate the post-AI boom and the shift to skills-based hiring, many are experiencing analysis paralysis, but now is the time to act with purpose. Korn Ferry recently surveyed over 400 talent acquisition professionals and consulted with more than 40 of its experts to uncover five key hiring trends shaping 2025, including the critical
How Executive Search Firms Adapt
In today’s dynamic hiring landscape, executive search firms like BrainWorks are adapting their strategies to focus on stable sectors such as technology, healthcare, and essential services during uncertain times. BrainWorks recently joined Hunt Scanlon Media to discuss how recruiting firms can meet evolving client needs by adjusting search strategies and leveraging advanced tools. Key insights from
McCormack+Kristel Recruits Executive Director for the National LGBTQ+ Bar Association
Executive search firm McCormack+Kristel has placed Anya Lynn-Alesker (they/she) as executive director of the National LGBTQ+ Bar Association. “We are confident that Lynn-Alesker will lead our organization to new heights as we continue our important mission of promoting justice in and through the legal profession for the LGBTQ+ community in all its diversity,” said Bendita Cynthia Malakia,
Collegiate Sports Associates Assists St. Johns with Director of Athletics Search
Raleigh, NC-based Collegiate Sports Associates recently assisted in the recruitment of alumnus Ed Kull as the eighth vice president and director of athletics for St. John’s University. “Ed Kull has demonstrated a commitment to excellence on and off the field of competition,” said Rev. Brian J. Shanley, president of St. John’s University. “This is an important hire
JM Search Expands Team Focused on Recruiting Key Executives Across the Financial Services Sector
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 financial services organizations and fintech businesses. “JM Search is seeing increased demand for key leaders within financial services, including investment management, banking, consumer & commercial finance, fintech, and insurance, and is committed to
The Transformation of HR in the Age of AI
The integration of artificial intelligence into HR is not a trend; it’s a transformative shift that is reshaping how organizations manage people, optimize processes, and drive innovation. As businesses seek to enhance efficiency and effectiveness while fostering a more dynamic and engaging workplace, AI and automation are increasingly being implemented into HR strategies, according to
Acertitude Assists Sterling Site Access Solutions with CEO Search
Executive search firm Acertitude recently assisted in the recruitment of Kaye Ceille as the new CEO of Sterling Site Access Solutions in Chicago. Kevin O’Neill, co-founder, managing partner, and leader of the industrial practice at Acertitude, led the search together with Max Stubenvoll, principal overseeing business services in North America. “In our search for CEO, we looked
The SAFE Alliance Taps Peña Search to Find Chief Development Officer
The SAFE Alliance (SAFE) recently retained Peña Search to lead in its search for a new chief development officer. Holly Sherman Peña and Carlos González Peña are leading the assignment. The chief development officer is a critical member of SAFE’s executive and senior leadership teams. In collaboration with the CEO and others, the CDO will help co-create,
TurnkeyZRG Expands Revenue Functional Practice
TurnkeyZRG has expanded with the addition of Jamie Spencer as a managing director within the revenue functional practice. “Jamie Spencer has been a top revenue executive for 25+ years – especially in tickets, premium and season ticket holder programs,” said Len Perna, chairman and CEO of TurnkeyZRG. “Jamie is joining TurnkeyZRG as our managing director to
NPAworldwide Adds 11 New Member Firms
Member-owned recruitment network NPAworldwide has added 11 new member firms. The new partners are located in the U.S., Canada, Australia, Spain and the U.K., with recruitment specialties including engineering, healthcare, information technology, sales, and more across multiple industry sectors. “Congratulations to each of our new member firms,” said NPAworldwide. “By joining our recruiting network, these firms are
A Look at Key Trends in Executive Recruiting for Private Equity-Backed Companies
A long-awaited interest rate cut in the U.S. finally arrived in September. Bespoke Partners’ Second Half 2024 Private Equity Talent Report asks will it thaw the deep freeze gripping private equity deal-flow and exits? Signs were that prospective deals in late Q2 and early Q3 had already priced in the expected rate cut and deals
Russell Reynolds Associates Recruits CFO for Rexford Industrial Realty
Global leadership advisory firm Russell Reynolds Associates has placed Michael Fitzmaurice as the new CFO of NYSE-traded Rexford Industrial Realty, Inc. in Los Angeles. Deb Barbanel and Nick Roberts led the assignment. “We are very pleased to welcome Michael Fitzmaurice to the Rexford Industrial team,” said Michael Frankel and Howard Schwimmer, co-chief executive officers of the company. “Michael is a strategic,
AGB Search Seeking Chancellor for the University of Colorado Denver
Washington, D.C.-based recruitment firm AGB Search, which specializes in higher education leadership assignments, was recently retained by the University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) to lead in its search for a new chancellor. Roderick McDavis, Monica Burton, Kimberly Templeton, and Carlos Hernandez are leading the assignment. The chancellor is the campus’s chief executive officer, reports to the CU
Caldwell Launches Academic Healthcare Practice
Toronto-based Caldwell has launched a new academic healthcare practice, a specialized division dedicated to finding senior leaders for academic health systems. “With the increasing complexity of academic health systems, there is a growing need for leaders who can navigate the intricacies of clinical, research, and education missions,” said Chris Beck, CEO. “Our new practice is designed to connect
Blue Rock Search Appoints VP of Business Development
Blue Rock Search has expanded with the addition of Colleen Barker as vice president of business development. “On behalf of the entire Blue Rock Search team, I’m so pleased to welcome Colleen Barker to our organization,” said Ruben Moreno, HR & diversity practice leader of Blue Rock Search. “As the executive search landscape continues to evolve in response to
Urgent Action Needed to Attract Talent in a Rapidly Changing World
Often the process of getting the right people employed into the right jobs at the right time to achieve operational objectives has lagged behind because the yearly budget process gets finalized too late. Today the pace of change in business, throughout the business year, has accelerated to such a speed that this approach severely affects
The Christopher Group Recruits Chief People Officer for Mintz Group
The Christopher Group (TCG), a boutique HR executive search and business solutions recruiting firm, has placed Cynthia Cherry as chief people officer for Mintz Group, a global provider of investigative services, specializing in uncovering the truth for corporations, law firms, and other organizations. Managing partner Pam Noble and recruiting director Kristen Perez led the assignment. “We are thrilled to have partnered
Kincannon & Reed Fills Senior Operations Role for MPS Egg Farms
Executive recruitment firm Kincannon & Reed, which exclusively focuses on food, agribusiness, and the related life sciences, has assisted in the recruitment of Edward Chisholm as vice president of operations at MPS Egg Farms in North Manchester, IN. “A future-focused leader, Edward has a demonstrated track record of success in optimizing operational performance,” said Jim Gerardot, Jr., managing
Randstad Acquires Zorgwerk
Randstad has acquired Zorgwerk, a digital healthcare marketplace in the Netherlands to strengthen its specialized offering in the healthcare and care sector. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. “We are excited to welcome the Zorgwerk team and its extensive network of qualified and dedicated healthcare and care professionals to Randstad,” said Sander van‘t Noordende,
Career Partners International Adds Advantage Consultores in Spain to Network
Columbus, OH-headquartered Career Partners International (CPI) has added Advantage Consultores as an affiliate in Barcelona, Spain. “I’m excited to be rejoining CPI and contributing to our common goals once more,” said Sylvia Taudien, CEO of Advantage Consultores. “Based in Barcelona, at Advantage Consultores we look forward to supporting Spanish and Portuguese market needs. I’m also happy to reconnect
More Than Coaching: How the Right Advisor Can Help Untangle the Human Dynamics that Derail Portco Value Creation
When private equity investors make their pitches, they often point out their ability to provide organizations with the support that creates value – typically meaning financial and operational support. However, most PE firms find it challenging to help their portcos manage the inevitable human capital challenges, which are typically enormously complex and time-consuming for even
Interim Positions: Effectively Closing Talent Gaps
In today’s fast-paced business environment, companies often face unexpected talent gaps that can disrupt operations and hinder growth. Interim jobs have emerged as a strategic solution, allowing organizations to fill these gaps swiftly and effectively, according to a recent report from SGA Talent, which delves into the significance of interim jobs in talent management and explores
Coulter Partners Recruits CEO for Nitinotes
Life sciences recruiting specialist Coulter Partners has assisted in the recruitment of Lloyd Diamond as the new CEO of Nitinotes Surgical in Caesarea, Israel. He succeeds Raz Bar-On, who will continue as general manager. “We are thrilled to welcome Lloyd to lead Nitinotes into its next chapter of innovation and growth,” said John Barr, chairman of the
Boyden Merges with WMB Partners
Boyden has announced a merger between its Miami office and Miami-based boutique executive search firm WMB Partners. Roberto Laub joins Boyden as a new managing partner alongside current managing partner Eduardo Rabassa, as well as managing associates Marcela Ordine Sia and Virginia Tomazela. “Boyden and WMB Partners share a unified philosophy on how executive search should be conducted,” said Mr. Rabassa. “It is
Navigating Uncertainty: How Global Business Leaders Are Adapting to Disruption and Complexity
A Protiviti and North Carolina State University study of over 1,300 board leaders and C-suite executives from around the world, found disruption and ongoing economic uncertainty are among the top concerns of global business leaders today. The study shows that these external forces add to the growing complexity of business leadership. In addition, a report from Boardroom Insiders shows
Griffith Group Retained by Jack.org to Lead CEO Search
Toronto-based executive recruitment firm Griffith Group Executive Search has been retained by Jack.org to lead in its search for a new CEO. Jane Griffith, managing partner and founder, and Caroline McLean, partner, are leading the assignment. The search firm is a seeking a highly regarded and respected leader who has held progressively senior leadership roles from an
Bryant Group Tapped by the University of Washington to Fill Senior Role
Dallas-based executive search and talent development firm Bryant Group has been selected to lead the search for the executive director for annual philanthropy for the University of Washington. Sarah Hempen, vice president of search, is leading the assignment. “We are looking for a people-first leader who understands and has a passion for public higher education;
Riviera Partners Names Partner to Lead Financial Services Practice Expansion
San Francisco-based Riviera Partners, a recruitment provider specializing in C-level engineering, product, and design leader placements, has named Mike Flood as a partner, where he will lead the expansion of the firm’s financial services practice. “With a distinguished career spanning over two decades in executive search and leadership advisory, Mike’s expertise will enhance the firm’s capabilities
Diversified Search Group Expands Healthcare Practice
Diversified Search Group (DSG), a leading search firm backed by private equity firm ShoreView Industries, has expanded with the addition of Rick Barr as managing director in the healthcare practice. “Dr. Barr’s consultative approach combined with his leadership and industry experience will provide tremendous value to our healthcare clients during this time,” said Aileen K. Alexander, CEO of
Spencer Stuart’s U.S. Board Index: Shift to Specialized Leadership and Diversity Milestone in S&P 500 Boards
Spencer Stuart’s 39th annual U.S. Board Index reveals that 59 percent of the 406 new independent directors appointed to S&P boards in 2024 possess chief executive or financial expertise, highlighting a shift towards specialized leadership amid low boardroom turnover. Despite this, the report emphasizes the need for boards to embrace proactive refreshment strategies to stay
Bespoke Partners Recruits CFO for WorkWave
San Diego, CA-headquartered Bespoke Partners has assisted in the recruitment Greg Doran as the new CFO for WorkWave in Holmdel, NJ. Katelyn Quaresma, partner, and Erin McElfresh, vice president at Bespoke Partners, led the assignment. “At WorkWave, we have set exceptionally high growth goals for ourselves, and while we are making great strides through our innovative solutions







