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Bespoke Partners Appoints Leader of People and HR Practice
San Diego, CA-headquartered Bespoke Partners recently named Dani Pfeiffer as a partner leading the people and human resources leader recruiting practice serving both software and industrials sector companies. She will lead dedicated recruiting teams on searches for talent executives for private equity portfolio companies for the software and SaaS clients served by Bespoke Partners and industrial clients served by Industra Talent Partners,
Wilson Forms New Alliance with Poetry to Advance AI capabilities
Global talent solutions provider Wilson has formed a new partnership with Poetry to strengthen its AI-enabled recruitment capabilities. The collaboration supports Wilson’s continued focus on embedding technology into its RPO delivery model through Wilson Workspace, its technology ecosystem. “We’re excited to announce our new partnership with Poetry,” said Charles Faigle, chief delivery officer at Wilson. This
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.
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
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?
FMG Leading Acquires Market Intelligence And Strategic Advisory Firm BroadBranch Advisors
Human capital advisory firm FMG Leading has acquired market intelligence and strategic advisory firm BroadBranch Advisors. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. “In today’s high-pressure landscape, translating forward-looking intelligence into action faster and more effectively is critical for our clients, especially in the investor-backed healthcare space,” said Matt Brubaker, chairman and CEO of FMG Leading. “By
PARC Street Group Places Chief Operating Officer for Mission Valley Bank
PARC Street Group has assisted in the recruitment Amanda Connell as chief operating officer at Mission Valley Bank. This search was completed by PARC Street Group senior executive search consultant Michelle Davis, executive recruiter Tabassum Nagpurwala, and executive search associate Priscilla Chacon. Ms. Connell brings more than 15 years of progressive leadership experience across community
Hunt Scanlon and HSiQ Build a New Performance Model for Executive Recruiters
As the executive search industry faces growing pressure to deliver stronger and more consistent results, firms are reassessing how recruiters are trained, developed, and prepared to meet changing client demands. A few months ago, Hunt Scanlon and its HSiQ Talent Intelligence advisory unit introduced the Recruiter Performance Training Program, a practical, execution-focused system designed to
U.S. Payrolls Fall by 23,000 in July as Unemployment Rate Dips to 4.1 Percent
Employment fell by 23,000 in July as the U.S. unemployment rate stood at 4.1 percent, according to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report. The number of unemployed people, at 6.9 million, changed little in July. Among the major worker groups, the unemployment rates for teenagers (12.1 percent) and people who are Hispanic (4.6 percent) declined
Parker Remick Expands with New Partner
Seattle, WA-based Parker Remick has appointed Adam Szepkouski as partner of consulting excellence. The firm explained that this hire reflects a broader push to refine execution and scale delivery as demand for senior technology leaders accelerates. The appointment comes at a time of structural change in technology leadership. AI is reshaping how technology organizations are built and
The Data Migration Paralysis Problem: Why Firms Stay on Old Platforms Too Long
Technology has become a defining competitive advantage for executive search firms, yet many organizations continue to rely on aging platforms that no longer innovate. While artificial intelligence, automation, and data-driven workflows are reshaping the industry, the hesitation to replace legacy systems often leaves firms struggling with inefficiencies that quietly accumulate over time. The greatest obstacle
Recruiterflow Offers Four-Step Playbook for Building an AI-Native Search Firm
Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how executive search firms identify talent, manage information, engage candidates, and serve clients. But adopting an AI-powered platform alone does not make a recruiting organization AI-native. The larger challenge is integrating technology across the search lifecycle in ways that improve decision-making, strengthen execution, and allow consultants to devote more attention
Kirk Palmer Associates Recruits Chief Merchandising Officer for Belk
Retail-focused executive search firm Kirk Palmer Associates has helped to recruit Molly Taylor as chief merchandising officer at retailer Belk, where she will lead merchandising strategy and vision across all product categories. Melissa Sussberg and Alexa Liebman led the assignment. Ms. Taylor is a merchandising executive with over 30 years of experience connecting topline vision to bottom-line performance
The Forces Reshaping Executive Search
As organizations face accelerating business transformation, leadership succession, and rapid advances in artificial intelligence, the demands placed on executive search firms continue to evolve. Clients are looking for more than candidate identification—they increasingly expect strategic guidance, deeper market intelligence, and advisors capable of helping them navigate an increasingly complex leadership landscape. Those themes emerged consistently
Bryant Group Fills Senior Position for the University of Washington
Dallas-based executive search and talent development firm Bryant Group has assisted in the recruitment of Justin Michalka as vice president for university development at the University of Washington (UW). The search was led by firm president Chris Bingley. “I’m delighted to welcome Justin to the University of Washington,” said Mary Gresch, senior vice president for university advancement. “He is a
SPMB Expands Financial Officer and Private Equity Practices
SPMB Executive Search has appointed Christy Mihos as a partner in the firm’s financial officer and private equity practices. “Christy is one of the most accomplished CFO search practitioners in the market, and we are thrilled to welcome him to SPMB,” said Dave Mullarkey, managing partner at SPMB. “His track record of advising PE firms and technology companies on
Executive Talent Market Faces New Pressures as AI and Private Equity Reshape Leadership Demand
The executive talent market continues to tighten as private investment accelerates, experienced leaders retire, and organizations compete for executives capable of driving growth and transformation. At the same time, artificial intelligence is changing the capabilities companies expect from senior leaders, while consulting and private equity firms rethink how they build leadership teams and evaluate potential.
Carpenter Legal Search Recruits General Counsel for Park Corporation
Legal recruiting remains an active area for executive search firms as corporations, law firms, government agencies, and other organizations compete for experienced legal talent. Employment of lawyers is projected to grow four percent from 2024 to 2034, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with approximately 31,500 openings expected each year as employers add
Signium Opens New Office in Hamburg, Germany
Executive search consortium Signium has opened a new office in Hamburg, Germany. The new office is led by Moritz Drerup, managing partner, who joined Signium with more than a decade of executive search experience and a highly focused practice in technology and AI leadership. The Hamburg office represents a natural evolution for Mr. Drerup’s established executive search practice, combining his specialist expertise with the reach,
Executive Search Strategies for Leadership Success
As organizations navigate rapid change, leadership decisions have become increasingly consequential, placing greater pressure on executive search firms to identify candidates who can deliver both immediate impact and long-term value. Success at the highest levels depends on far more than filling a vacancy—it requires a disciplined search strategy that combines market intelligence, rigorous assessment, and
Leverage AI in Your Job Search: When to Use It and When Not To
Artificial intelligence has been changing the way people search for jobs. From optimizing resumes to preparing for interviews, AI has become a valuable resource for candidates looking to streamline the process. The key is knowing how to use it effectively, according to a recent report from New York City headquartered executive search firm Solomon Page. “AI
The Christopher Group Selected by Penn Highlands Healthcare for CHRO Search
The Christopher Group (TCG), a boutique HR executive search and business solutions recruiting firm, has been retained by Penn Highlands Healthcare to lead in its search for a new chief human resources officer. Managing partner, Molly Mangan, and partner, Carrie Longmire, are leading the assignment. “The chief human resources officer will play an important role in helping Penn Highlands
Where AI Belongs in Executive Search—and Where It Doesn’t
Artificial intelligence is reshaping every aspect of the executive search profession, creating new opportunities to improve efficiency while raising important questions about where technology should—and should not—play a role in the hiring process. As firms continue to integrate AI into their workflows, the focus is increasingly shifting from whether to adopt these tools to how
Isaacson, Miller Leading President Search for Virginia Tech
Boston-based Isaacson, Miller has been selected by Virginia Tech to lead in its search for a new president. Current president Tim Sands announced his resignation in April. Greg Esposito and Julie Filizetti are leading this search with Kristen Andersen, Raul Bernal, Victoria Castillo, and Gabrielle Nayar. The school seeks a visionary and dynamic leader to serve as its
Parker Remick Appoints Partner of Firm Operations
Seattle, WA-based Parker Remick recently named Jena Gibson as partner of firm operations. This is part of the executive search firm’s expansion of operational infrastructure and AI-enabled delivery capabilities. The firm noted that all in response to rising demand for senior technology and AI leadership. Ms. Gibson joins Parker Remick with more than 15 years
Building an Employer Brand That Attracts Top Executive Talent
In today’s competitive business environment, where organizations are vying for top talent, a strong employer brand has become an essential strategic advantage. It plays a critical role in attracting and retaining high-quality candidates while also contributing to an organization’s overall success. A recent report from the International Executive Search Federation (IESF) delves into the importance of a
Krauthamer & Associates Assists the Dallas Area Rapid Transit with CEO Search
Krauthamer & Associates (K&A) has assisted in the recruitment of Nathaniel Ford as president and CEO of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART). “Mr. Ford brings decades of executive leadership in public transportation, a proven record of organizational transformation, and a deep understanding that transit is about much more than buses and trains,” said DART board chair
Slone Partners Makes Senior Appointments
Life sciences-focused search firm Slone Partners has named Sona Stroud and Kim Wilson as senior partners. Ms. Stroud has been promoted to the position following nearly 15 years with the firm, while Ms. Wilson returns to the organization, further strengthening its leadership team with nearly 17 years of experience with the firm. “Few things are more rewarding than recognizing exceptional leaders
The Evolution of Tech Leadership in Europe: 40 Years of Transformation
As technology continues to reshape every sector of the economy, executive search firms are seeing a fundamental shift in the profile of leaders organizations need to remain competitive. Companies are no longer seeking executives with deep technical expertise alone—they are prioritizing transformational leaders who can navigate disruption, lead enterprise-wide change, and align emerging technologies with
Changing the DNA of Growth-Stage Recruiting
As growth-stage companies accelerate expansion under private equity ownership or new investment, leadership teams are placing greater emphasis on the organizational structures that support long-term value creation. While executive search has traditionally focused on identifying transformative leaders, many organizations are also rethinking where the talent acquisition function belongs within the enterprise to ensure hiring strategy
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 —
Unemployment Rate Falls to 4.1 Percent
Employment rose by 256,000 in December as the U.S. unemployment rate dipped slightly to 4.1 percent, according to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report. The number of unemployed persons was 6.9 million in December. Employment trended up in healthcare, government, and social assistance. Retail trade added jobs in December, following a job loss in November.
McDermott + Bull Recruits Chief Administrative Officer for Farmers & Merchants Bank of Central California
Irvine, CA-based McDermott + Bull has placed Troy Harper as EVP and chief administrative officer at Farmers & Merchants Bank of Central California in Lodi, CA. Deborah Skinner recently retired after spending 24 years in this role. The search was led by McDermott + Bull president Brandon Biegenzahn, managing director Courtney Dorrel, vice president Hilary Raska, and
Caldwell Posts 21.7 Percent Revenue Increase in Fiscal Q1
Toronto-based Caldwell posted Q1 revenues of $21.3 million (Canadian), a 21.7 percent gain from the same period a year ago. Professional fees reached $21.2 million, with Caldwell’s segment growing 30 percent to $18.4 million, while IQTalent’s fees decreased to $2.8 million from $3.2 million. Cadlwell reported net earnings of $465,000 ($0.016 per share), compared to $3.8 million ($0.128 per share) in
Preparing the C-Suite for Success in the 2025 AI-Driven Economy
The Total Economic Impact (TEI) of AI is highly lucrative, serving as the primary catalyst for the bold push toward accelerated digitization. TEI measures AI’s comprehensive economic value to an organization by capturing direct financial gains, operational efficiency, customer impact, risk reduction, and competitive advantage, according to a new report from Boyden’s Bashar Kilani. “Direct
Korn Ferry Assists the Universities Space Research Association with CEO Search
Following an extensive national search, Korn Ferry has assisted in the recruitment of Elsayed Talaat as president and CEO of the Universities Space Research Association (USRA) in Washington, D.C. “We are excited to welcome Dr. Talaat as the next CEO of USRA,” said Gen Lester Lyles, chair of the board of trustees. “We firmly believe he is the
Modern Executive Solutions Recruits CEO for Members Development Company
Atlanta-based executive search firm Modern Executive Solutions has helped to recruit Ned Tobey as the new CEO of Members Development Company in Madison, WI. He succeeds Jeff Kline, the company’s CEO since 2007. The selection of Mr. Tobey caps a search process that followed Mr. Kline’s retirement announcement earlier this year. The company partnered with Modern to
Daversa Partners Appoints Five New Managing Directors
Daversa Partners, which helps build leadership teams for growth and venture-backed companies, has promoted Lyndy Adamonis, Tara Cremin, Megan Daversa, Jodie Salzberg, and Ava Talbott to managing directors. “These five have earned their reputation by building deep networks, achieving consistent results for both clients and candidates, and fostering partnerships that drive exceptional company outcomes,” Daversa Partners said in a release. “Their belief that
Russell Reynolds Associates Names Country Manager for Singapore
Global leadership advisory firm Russell Reynolds Associates has appointed Euan Kenworthy as country manager of the Singapore office. He succeeds Ulrike Wieduwilt, who is stepping down from her role. “We are confident that Euan’s proven track record in building diverse and high-performing leadership teams, complemented with his deep appreciation of cultural sensitivities in the region, will be a
The Strategic Architects Advancing Diversity, Inclusion, and Business Excellence
The role of HR leaders has expanded significantly, in the last decade, making them vital architects of organizational culture and strategy. The best HR professionals are not only adept at managing talent but also serve as strategic partners who align HR initiatives with broader business objectives, executive recruiters tell Hunt Scanlon Media. These leaders possess
Shelli Herman and Associates Recruits CEO for Kiewit Luminarium
Los Angeles-based Shelli Herman and Associates has recruited Mathew Sinclair as the new CEO of Kiewit Luminarium in Omaha, NE. Linda Brandl, who has been serving as interim CEO, will continue to lead the organization until Sinclair assumes his position in February. “Mat Sinclair is an outstanding leader with a strong track record of building collaborative, community-focused initiatives,”
Bryant Group Leading Senior Search Assignment for the University of San Diego
Dallas-based executive search and talent development firm Bryant Group has been retained by the University of San Diego to lead in its search for an associate vice president for university events and partnerships. Sarah Hempen, vice president of search, is leading the assignment. “On the heels of an exceptional 75th anniversary year, the University of San Diego is
Kaye/Bassman Expands Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Practice
Plano, TX-based executive search firm Kaye/Bassman International has expanded with the addition of Edward Canning as managing partner within its pharmaceutical and biotechnology recruiting practice. “Bringing Ed Canning onto our already formidable team represents a tremendous opportunity,” said Michael Pietrack, who leads the pharma and biotech division. “His integrity and values align perfectly with our culture, ensuring we
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
