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Building Your IR Function: The Questions Every VC Should be Asking
As venture firms mature and fundraising becomes more institutionalized, building the right investor relations function is increasingly becoming a critical part of long-term growth. The best time to hire an investor relations leader is before you urgently need one, according to a recent report from SPMB’s Suzanne Heske and Emily Leder. “LP relationships take years to
U.S. Hiring Slows as Unemployment Rate Edges Up to 4.2 Percent
Employment increased by 29,000 in September as the U.S. unemployment rate edged up to at 4.2 percent, according to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report. The number of unemployed people, at 7.1 million, also increased in September. Among the major worker groups, the unemployment rate for people who are Black (7.0 percent) increased in September.
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.
BoardWalk Consulting Leading Chief Philanthropy Officer Search for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul
BoardWalk Consulting was recently selected by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) to lead in its search for a chief philanthropy officer. The search is being led by Terri Kohan and Patti Kish. Philanthropy is central to that ambition. SVdP USA’s leadership aims to grow national fundraising substantially over the next three to
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?
Bespoke Partners Launches AI Leadership Benchmarks for PE-Backed Software and SaaS
Bespoke Partners has released its AI Leadership Benchmarking Guide for measuring AI deployment progress in software and SaaS company leadership for the private equity industry. “Panic drove the SaaSpocalypse fear that AI will kill software, but the transformation of software and SaaS using AI has been under way for years,” said Eric Walczykowski, CEO of
Search Leaders Have Mastered Prompting. Now They Want AI that Works for Them
As artificial intelligence becomes more deeply embedded in executive search, firms are moving beyond basic adoption to determine how the technology can deliver measurable business value. The focus is increasingly shifting toward improving productivity, strengthening client relationships, and giving recruiters more time to concentrate on high-value activities. But realizing those benefits will require more than
TurnkeyZRG Leading Athletic Director Search for the University of Michigan
The University of Michigan is launching a national search for its next athletic director, with president-elect C. Cybele Raver leading the process in partnership with current president Domenico Grasso. The school has retained TurnkeyZRG to lead the assignment. The university is seeking a leader of unquestioned integrity who will take a fresh, comprehensive look at Michigan
Lock Search Group Leading Efforts to Recruit CEO for Atlas Sign & Awning
Toronto-headquartered executive recruitment firm Lock Search Group was retained by Atlas Sign & Awning to find its next CEO. Recruitment consultant, partner Cameron Lappin is leading the assignment. Reporting directly to the CEO of the holding company, the appointed CEO for Atlas Sign & Awning will provide strategic and operational leadership across all facets of the business,
Slayton Search Partners Grows Consumer Practice
Slayton Search Partners has expanded with the addition of Karen Ouchterloney as vice president and managing principal in the firm’s consumer practice. “We are pleased to welcome Karen to Slayton Search Partners,” said Richard Slayton, CEO and managing partner. “Her combination of firsthand operating experience with leading consumer brands and more than 13 years advising clients
TRANSEARCH Adds New Member Firm in Poland
Executive search consultants are seeing an increase in hiring mandates from around the world. To meet demand, they continue to develop new practices, hire new recruiters, and open new locations. Global recruiting consortiums, meanwhile, are taking advantage of a resurgence in certain geographic areas. TRANSEARCH International has added GP Executive as a member firm in
Consulting Partner Compensation Strengthens as AI and Private Equity Reshape the Market
The North American consulting market is showing signs of renewed strength, with improving revenue performance and resilient partner compensation. A new report from The Barton Partnership examines how compensation, ownership structures, and career expectations are evolving as consulting firms navigate shifting business models and growing private equity investment. The findings also point to mounting concerns
The Old Math Is Broken: Rethinking Growth, Headcount and Margins in the AI Era
The traditional growth model for executive search firms is undergoing a significant shift as artificial intelligence reshapes how recruiting businesses operate. For years, expansion meant adding more clients, mandates, recruiters, and overhead. Today, AI is creating opportunities to increase productivity, improve margins, and grow revenue without expanding headcount at the same pace. These advances are
Preng & Associates Recruits Chief Construction Officer for Pacifico Energy
Houston-based Preng & Associates has placed Ronald Hall as chief construction officer at Pacifico Energy, a global energy infrastructure developer specializing in power generation and customized energy solutions for commercial, industrial, and data center customers. The appointment comes at a pivotal time for Pacifico Energy as the company advances major power generation developments to meet
Potrero Group Currently Seeking Executive Director for The Pisgah Conservancy
San Francisco-based leadership consulting and search firm Potrero Group is currently leading the executive director search for The Pisgah Conservancy. Senior consultant Jena Kuznik is leading the assignment. The executive director serves as TPC’s chief executive and is the primary steward of its mission, culture, and long-term vision. This is an opportunity to lead a respected conservation organization
Charles Aris Appoints Senior Practice Leader
Greensboro, NC-based executive search firm Charles Aris Executive Search has expanded with the recent addition of Scott Kennedy as senior practice leader. He will lead CFO and senior finance executive searches for growth-oriented and sponsor-backed companies, with a particular focus on software, technology and TMT. Over more than a decade in executive search, Mr. Kennedy has worked on
Talent Alignment: Why Human Capital Must Be Central to Business Strategy
While growth is expected to strengthen a business, many organizations eventually reach a point where the opposite appears to be true. Decision-making slows, accountability becomes less defined, and initiatives begin to lose momentum. Leaders begin wondering whether they need different people, a recent report from Ascentria Search Partners explained. Sometimes they do, but not always. But
Isaacson, Miller Recruits 17th President for Virginia Tech
Boston-based Isaacson, Miller has assisted in the recruitment of Richard Linton as the 17th president of Virginia Tech. He succeeds Tim Sands, who announced his resignation in April. Greg Esposito and Julie Filizetti led the search with Kristen Andersen, Raul Bernal, Victoria Castillo, and Gabrielle Nayar. “Virginia Tech is poised to make a generational leap as a
NU Advisory Partners Recruits Chief Marketing Officer for Paula’s Choice
NU Advisory Partners has placed Sheila Shekar Pollak as chief marketing officer of Paula’s Choice. The search was led by Libby Naumes, Penina Remler, and Kelsey Kelly. Ms. Shekar Pollak brings more than 20 years of marketing and brand leadership experience across consumer, beauty, apparel, and outdoor brands. Most recently, she served as chief marketing officer
Modern Executive Solutions Names New Leader to Drive M1 Technology Community Expansion
Atlanta-based talent consultancy Modern Executive Solutions has expanded with the addition of Joan Rohs as senior partner, M1 Technology Community. “We’re building an integrated network that connects exceptional leaders, brings together the right expertise, and helps prepare executives for a world being reshaped by AI,” said Mark Oppenheimer, CEO of Modern Executive Solutions. “Joan brings an extraordinary
StevenDouglas Expands HR Practice
StevenDouglas recently expanded with the addition of Brittney Molitor as a director, human resources search. “Brittney takes a highly consultative approach to search, focusing on both the capabilities required for a role and the cultural alignment needed for long-term success,” StevenDouglas said in a LinkedIn post. “She is passionate about building genuine relationships with clients
Insight Partners Launches Empower to Prepare CIOs for Board Roles
AI and software investor Insight Partners has launched Empower, a program that helps Global 2000 CIOs plan and prepare for board seats, startup advisory positions and other portfolio-career paths while they are still in their operating roles. Empower launches with 10 delivery partners, including Diligent, Heidrick & Struggles, Riviera Partners, and Global Mentors Group, and has
Brettschneider Executive Search Tapped by William Paterson University to Find Next Provost
New York City-based Brettschneider Executive Search has been retained by William Paterson University (WP) to lead in its search for a provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. Reporting to president Richard J. Helldobler, the provost will serve as chief academic officer and as a visible, collaborative partner to the president, cabinet, deans, and faculty governance bodies.
Klein Hersh Recruits President and CEO for Shenandoah Therapeutics
Klein Hersh, a search firm focused on the life sciences and healthcare industries, has placed Steve Worland as president, CEO and a member of the board of directors at Shenandoah Therapeutics. Co-founder and founding CEO Isabella Graef, has transitioned to chief scientific officer and will continue to lead Shenandoah’s scientific strategy. “I’m delighted to welcome
Harris Search Associates Seeking Research Leader for Texas A&M Semiconductor Institute
Harris Search Associates is currently seeking the inaugural director of research for Texas A&M Semiconductor Institute (TSI). Jeffrey Harris and Richard Skinner are leading the assignment. Working in close partnership with the TSI Director and other Institute leaders, the director of research serves as a catalyst to refine and evolve the TSI’s research strategy, focused on large-scale academic-industry-government private
BarkerGilmore Names Senior Director
Boutique search firm BarkerGilmore, which specializes in building corporate legal and compliance teams, recently expanded with the addition of Jesus Meraz as senior director. He brings a unique combination of leadership experience, legal training, and strategic business insight to the firm’s executive search practice. His career has been defined by helping organizations identify, attract, and develop
Revenge Quitting Creates New Challenges for Recruiters
You spend weeks helping a team find the right person. A few months later, that same role lands back on your desk because the employee has resigned. Now the position is urgent, the hiring manager wants a replacement right away, and the pressure is coming from every direction. When exits like this occur at particularly
Peña Search Seeking Chief Strategy Officer for Housing Forward
Peña Search was recently retained by Housing Forward to lead in its hunt for a chief strategy officer. Travis Hillier is leading the assignment. Reporting to the president and CEO, the chief strategy officer will serve as Housing Forward’s chief strategist and a member of the executive leadership team. The CSO will oversee the teams
Nexus Search Partners Recruits CEO for Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region
Nexus Search Partners, an executive search and advisory firm in Charlotte, NC, has assisted in the recruitment of Bryant Owens as the new CEO of Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region. He will succeed Laura Belcher, who has served the organization with distinction for more than 12 years. Owens will become the sixth CEO
Charles Aris Launches Interim Search Business
Organizations are increasingly turning to flexible leadership solutions to navigate periods of change, execute strategic initiatives and drive value creation, especially in private equity. In response to this growing demand, Greensboro, NC-based executive search firm Charles Aris Executive Search has launched Charles Aris Interim Solutions, a new division dedicated to connecting organizations with experienced independent talent for interim
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
Forces Shaping the 2025 Dealmaking Boom
The latest EY Merger Monthly forecasts an uptick in U.S. M&A activity, driven by favorable macroeconomic conditions, regulatory shifts, and an increasing appetite for strategic deals. “U.S. M&A activity is expected to build further momentum in 2025,” the report notes, “driven by falling interest rates, strong economic expansion, substantial uninvested capital, and the imperative for business transformation.”Despite
Myers McRae Places President at Broward College
Kenny Daugherty and Brianna Douglas of Macon, GA-based Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting has helped to place Torey Alston as the next president of Broward College in Fort Lauderdale, FL. “This is a decision that my fellow trustees and I took very seriously,” said board chair Alexis Yarbrough. “We had two very strong candidates, but Mr. Alston’s legislative
Diversified Search Group (DSG Global) | Koya Partners Retained by The Shaker Museum to Find New Leader
The Shaker Museum has retained Diversified Search Group (DSG Global) | Koya Partners to lead in its search for a new executive director. Naree W.S. Viner and Stephen Milbauer led the assignment for the recruitment firm. The Shaker Museum seeks a dynamic, forward-thinking, and visionary executive director to lead the organization into a new era of growth and
LSS Strategic Partners Launches ECB STAR Group
LSS Strategic Partners (LSS), an A&M Inc. company, has launched ECB STAR Group, a retained executive search firm specializing in executive, board, and C-suite appointments. As a key component of LSS’s strategic expansion, ECB enhances the firm’s suite of leadership and legal talent solutions alongside SHP Legal Services (SHPLS) and NomosFIT. Led by Tom Wilkinson, co-founder and CEO of
Flatiron Search Partners Names Head of Clinical Recruitment Practice
Flatiron Search Partners (FSP) has appointed Nicole Soler Dolinko as partner and head of the clinical recruitment practice. “We’re thrilled to have Nicole’s stewardship within our rapidly expanding healthcare practice,” the firm said in a LinkedIn post. Ms. Soler Dolinko brings a track record of placing senior talent across a wide range of healthcare roles, including executive
Starting Strong in Your New CHRO Position
CHROs’ role and responsibilities are broadening, as the workforce is increasingly seen as an organization’s most important strategic differentiator. Getting the most out of people means finding a common purpose that motivates, inspires, and enables a company to embrace critical change. CHROs today are far more involved with the most senior stakeholders, acting as the
Coulter Partners Recruits Chief Medical Officer for Bausch Health
Life sciences recruiting specialist Coulter Partners has assisted in the recruitment of Jonathan Sadeh as executive vice president, chief medical officer and head of R&D at NYSE-traded Bausch Health Companies Inc. Antonietta Baffa, Lilyana Chukova, and Nona Footz led the assignment. “We are delighted to welcome Jonathan as our new head of research and development,” said Thomas J. Appio,
StevenDouglas Expands Search Staff
Executive search firm StevenDouglas has expanded with the addition of Greg von der Linden as director, human resources search. “Greg’s approach to recruiting is relationship-driven, built on trust, clear communication, and responsiveness,” StevenDouglas said in a LinkedIn post. “He focuses on providing meaningful, lasting solutions that align with the goals of both his clients and candidates. With
HR Platform HiBob Acquires Financial Planning and Analysis Platform Mosaic
Tel Aviv-based HR tech platform HiBob has acquired cloud-based financial planning and analysis (FP&A) platform Mosaic, subject to closing conditions. The acquisition will enable HiBob to deliver an integrated solution that gives mid-market companies the ability to understand and maximize the productivity and impact of their people. By integrating HiBob’s people management platform with Mosaic’s FP&A
Executive Transitions in Private Equity: Managing Leadership Change for Maximum Impact
Leadership changes in portfolio companies are intricate processes that play a crucial role in shaping the future direction of these newly acquired businesses, according to a recent report from Blue Rock Search’s Ruben Moreno. What are some key traits for success in C-suite roles, and how can you ensure smooth transitions that minimize disruption and maximize performance?
Prevent a Costly Hiring Mistake
The success of any organization, large or small, hinges on its people. Your team members are not just cogs in a machine; they are the lifeblood of your company, according to a recent report from TurningPoint Executive Search’s Ken Schmitt. “That’s why hiring the right talent is one of the most critical decisions a business leader can
Preng & Associates Assists Pantheon Resources With CEO Search
Houston-based Preng & Associates has assisted in the recruitment of Max Easley as the new CEO of Pantheon Resources plc succeeding Jay Cheatham. Mr. Easley will be appointed as a member of the Pantheon board of directors effective February 28, while Mr. Cheatham will continue to serve the company as a non-executive director for a period of
Krauthamer & Associates Seeking New Leader for AC Transit
Krauthamer & Associates has been retained by the Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District (AC Transit), Oakland, CA, to lead in its search for a new general manager and CEO. Gregg A. Moser is leading the assignment. The firm is seeking a dynamic, experienced and visionary executive who has proven leadership and management skills to lead the agency.
SearchWide Global Expands
Executive recruitment firm SearchWide Global has expanded with the additions of Carmen Rodgers, Chris Bates, and Danielle Loney. “The onboarding of three new team members, each bringing profound expertise and innovative skills to further drive organizational success,” the firm said. “The addition of Carmen, Chris, and Danielle to our team reflects our commitment to excellence and leadership,”
A Look at Today’s Trends in Executive Search
As AI continues to revolutionize industries, executive search must adapt and innovate to stay effective and relevant. While advanced AI tools are streamlining processes, improving efficiency and enhancing precision in candidate sourcing, the human element remains central to success, according to a new report from Kestria. “Executive search firms are increasingly focused on aligning technology
Spencer Stuart Retained by Hanesbrands for CEO Search
Spencer Stuart has been tapped by Hanesbrands to lead in its search for a new CEO. Steve Bratspies announced that he will depart as CEO of the company at the end of 2025, or upon the appointment of his successor. As part of the company’s leadership succession planning process, the board has begun a comprehensive
Shelli Herman and Associates Seeking CFO for Chrysalis
Los Angeles-based Shelli Herman and Associates has been selected by Chrysalis to lead in its search for a vice president and CFO. Chrysalis seeks a strategic CFO who will report to and partner with president and CEO Mark Loranger, providing active leadership for all aspects of the agency’s finances, focused on uplifting overall organizational operations. The CFO
Wray Executive Search Appoints VP of Recruiting
The restaurant and foodservice industry is experiencing a dynamic shift as it continues to recover from pandemic-related disruptions while adapting to evolving consumer behaviors. Wray Executive Search, a provider of executive search and advisory services in the restaurant, foodservice, retail, and franchise industries, has named Monica de la Nuez as vice president of recruiting. “We
H.I. Executive Consulting Partners Enhances Presence Across Europe
Global search firm H.I. Executive Consulting (HIEC) has expanded with the addition of Selma de Fressenel as a partner based in Paris enhancing its presence across Europe. “We are delighted that Selma is joining our team at HIEC,” said Melissa Reed, managing partner and global leader, consumer practice. “Selma brings an outstanding track record with a focus
Transforming Executive Transitions into Opportunities
Leadership changes are inevitable, but they don’t have to shake an organization’s foundation. A recent report from DHR Global reveals, C-suite departures have a significant effect on employees’ trust, morale, and sense of direction. In fact, half of respondents experienced the departure of a senior executive in the past year, with 55 percent questioning whether
Furst Group Recruits COO for Medical Associates Health Plans
Executive recruitment firm Furst Group, which serves the healthcare and insurance industries, has assisted in the recruitment of Nicole Oishi as the new chief operating officer of Medical Associates Health Plan in Dubuque, IA. “We are excited to welcome Nicole to our team,” said Zach Keeling, CEO of Medical Associates. “Her leadership and experience will help us build on
Kirby Bates Associates Retained by Island Health for Chief Nursing Officer Search
As the healthcare sector continues to expand and reshape itself, vanguard organizations in the field are looking to bolster their leadership ranks. In demand: multi-skilled executives, physician leaders, and nurses who can effect change on many levels. Of the four major C-suite roles in the typical hospital, the chief nursing officer has traditionally been the most difficult
Saxton Bampfylde Appoints CEO
U.K.-based executive recruiter Saxton Bampfylde has named Kate Ludlow as its new CEO. As part of this leadership transition, Stephen Bampfylde, the firm’s founding partner, will assume the role of non-executive chair, continuing to provide strategic guidance and governance oversight while maintaining his active involvement with key client relationships and projects. Additionally, Jonathan Morgan has been appointed as deputy chair,
EMA Partners Opens New Office in Atlanta
EMA Partners, a global partnership of executive search professionals, has opened a new office in Atlanta with the addition of CSearchGroup. The firm is led by managing partner Craig Scheiblauer. “We are extremely pleased that Craig has joined EMA, he brings a very diverse portfolio of clients across the life sciences and healthcare industry sectors and
The Strategic Benefits of Using Retained Search Firms for Non-Profit Leadership Recruitment
In the wake of the 2024 election, the dynamic landscape for non-profit organizations has shifted, making the need to secure and retain top-tier leadership more crucial than ever. Recruiters tell Hunt Scanlon Media that strong, effective leadership is now key to driving mission success and ensuring long-term organizational sustainability in an increasingly complex environment. A
Lindauer Selected by Scouting America to Lead Chief Development Officer Search
Lindauer has been retained by Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts of America) to lead in its search for an executive vice president and chief development officer (CDO). The assignment is being led by Libby Roberts, senior executive vice president, and Andrew Machado, senior consultant. This critical role requires a strategic development leader with a passion for spearheading fundraising
Reffett Associates Completes Top Search for the Washington State Gambling Commission
After a nationwide search, Seattle, WA-based Reffett Associates has assisted in the recruitment of Jeneva Cotton as the deputy director for the Washington State Gambling Commission where she will run the day-today operations and support the commission’s executive director, Tina Griffin. The search was led by Tom Young, the firm’s director of operations in their Seattle office.
Isaacson, Miller Appoints Chief People Officer
Boston-based Isaacson, Miller has appointed Shari Chernack as its chief people officer. With over 20 years of experience in human resources, organizational effectiveness, and business transformation, she is responsible for aligning people and culture practices with the firm’s business objectives, fostering a high-performance environment for team members. Ms. Chernack will steward talent lifecycle strategies and plans
The Barton Partnership Names Leader for North American Expansion
The Barton Partnership, a U.K.-based executive search firm, has appointed Michael J. Doud as executive vice president, North America. He will lead the firm’s continued strategic expansion in the North American market. “The North American market is a huge opportunity for us as a firm; our proposition is well-established, and we have a talented team
Buffkin / Baker Acquires Gallagher’s U.S. Executive Search Practice
Buffkin / Baker, a national retained executive search firm based in Brentwood, TN, has acquired the U.S. recruiting business of Gallagher Executive Search, including Frederickson Partners. “The acquisition of Gallagher’s U.S. Executive Search team will enhance the depth and breadth of our capabilities and provide a more comprehensive national presence,” said Craig Buffkin, managing partner. “By leveraging
Key Talent Management Trends to Watch in 2025
Talent management is rapidly transforming as AI advancements, hybrid work models, and shifting leadership expectations reshape the employee experience. To capture these changes, Odgers Berndtson surveyed HR leaders and identified five key trends for 2025 that present both opportunities and challenges for the way organizations manage and engage their top talent. 1. Talent Attraction: Building







