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Accenture Signals the Rise of the ‘Agentic Deal’
Accenture’s latest report, The Dawn of the Agentic Deal, points to a clear turning point in M&A. Over the past decade, technology has largely been used to improve speed and efficiency, enhancing diligence, financial modeling, and integration planning. That advantage, however, is quickly becoming table stakes. What’s emerging now is structurally different. AI is no longer
Why Your Most Difficult Hire Isn’t the One You Think
Headline employment data and hiring activity paint an incomplete picture of today’s workforce landscape. Beneath the surface, shifting candidate expectations and constrained talent pipelines are creating challenges that aren’t immediately visible. If you lead talent strategy in the insurance sector, you are navigating one of the most deceptive hiring markets in recent memory, according to
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.
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
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?
Blue Rock Human Capital Recruits Chief People Officer for Michelli Weighing & Measurement
Talent acquisition strategies at many large companies have become as complex as their balance sheets. And while chief human resource officers play a vital role in overseeing an organization’s broad-based workforce, the chief people officer typically goes beyond overseeing its people policies. The focus instead is on building talent as a key competitive advantage, with more
Raising the Bar for Interim and Fractional Leadership
As companies face mounting pressure to move faster and adapt to constant change, interim and fractional executives are increasingly being brought in not simply to maintain stability, but to drive transformation from day one. Organizations today are seeking experienced leaders who can step into critical roles, solve immediate business challenges, and create momentum while long-term
BoardWalk Consulting Selected by Atlanta Ballet for Executive Director Search
BoardWalk Consulting has was recently tapped by Atlanta Ballet to lead in its search for an executive director. The search is being led by Sam Pettway, Demeika Wheaton, and Patti Kish. The executive director will lead Atlanta Ballet’s administrative and business functions in alignment with the organization’s mission and values, while partnering closely with the artistic
When Search Fatigue Leads to Costly Hiring Mistakes
In executive search, the biggest hiring mistakes are not always caused by weak candidate pools or poor sourcing strategies. More often, breakdowns occur near the finish line, when prolonged interview cycles, competing stakeholder opinions, and mounting business pressures begin to wear down decision-making discipline. What starts as a rigorous evaluation process can gradually shift toward
Preng & Associates Recruits SVP of Government Services for American Bureau of Shipping
Houston-based Preng & Associates has placed Rear Admiral Ronald J. Rábago as senior vice president of government services at American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). “Admiral Rábago brings exceptional government and industry experience that will further enhance the support we provide to our government clients in the U.S. and around the world,” said John McDonald, ABS chairman and CEO. “His
McDermott + Bull Expands in Amsterdam
Irvine, CA-based McDermott + Bull has expanded in Amsterdam with the addition of Gerben van den Hout as managing director. “This strategic hire comes as McDermott + Bull continues to expand its executive search presence across Europe, further strengthening the firm’s ability to support organizations in identifying and placing high-impact leadership talent,” the firm said. “Gerben’s appointment represents an
The CHRO’s Leadership Imperative in the AI Era
As organizations accelerate their adoption of artificial intelligence, business leaders are increasingly recognizing that successful transformation depends as much on people and leadership as it does on technology itself. HR executives, in particular, are finding themselves at the center of conversations around workforce readiness, employee trust, skills development, and organizational change management. Industry observers note
Cluen Invites Executive Search Firms to Participate in Upcoming 2026 Technology Trends Survey
For more than three decades, Cluen has partnered with leading executive search firms around the world to understand how top-performing recruiters use technology to gain a competitive advantage. Each year, the company’s Top Trends in Executive Search Technology survey uncovers the strategies, priorities, and innovations shaping the future of the profession. How are executive search firms balancing the rapid adoption of AI
Lindauer Retained by C-SPAN for Chief Development Officer Search
Virtually every industry needs top-drawer chief development officers. CDOs play a key role in planning, coordinating, and administering capital campaigns, corporate giving, and galvanizing new donors while keeping previous funders content. Implementing funding strategies that “keep the lights on,” according to recruiters specializing in the function, is job No. 1. Lindauer has been retained by C-SPAN to
NPAG Seeking Executive Director for the California Youth Defender Center
Executive search firm NPAG has been selected by the California Youth Defender Center (CYDC) to lead in its search for a new executive director. This search is being led by Ellen LaPointe and Phuong Quach. This is a unique opportunity to lead a respected and influential organization at a pivotal moment, shaping the future of youth justice
Lochlin Partners Helps Fill Senior Position for Business Roundtable
Lochlin Partners has assisted in the recruitment of Stefani Jones as senior director of policy at Business Roundtable (BRT). Ms. Jones is an accomplished technology policy leader with deep expertise at the intersection of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and national security. Her experience spans the White House, the private sector, and senior federal policy roles. She
Why Executives Should Think Carefully Before Accepting Counteroffers
Few moments in an executive’s career carry as much complexity as the decision to resign from a leadership role and pursue a new opportunity. What often begins as a strategic career move can quickly become emotionally charged once a current employer responds with incentives aimed at reversing that decision. Recruiters and leadership advisors note that
Funk Associates Tapped by the University of North Florida to Lead Search for Eighth President
Funk Associates was recently retained by the University of North Florida (UNF) to lead a national search for its eighth president. Past president Moez Limayem stepped down from his position in early 2026. The presidential search committee, chaired by UNF board of trustees member Jack Boyle, plays a critical role in this process, focusing on
Acertitude Recruits CEO for PE-Backed Zep Inc.
Acertitude has placed Tim Feast as the new CEO of Zep Inc., a Truelink Capital portfolio company. The search was led by partner, Geoff Votta and principal, Rod Vaughan with support from Matthew Marasco and Maryanne Santospirito. Mr. Feast steps into the role with a mandate to accelerate growth, sharpen execution, and lead Zep into its
SearchWide Global Seeking CEO for Visit California
SearchWide Global is currently seeking a new CEO for Visit California. The assignment is being led by Mike Gamble, chairman, CEO, and co-founder of SearchWide. Visit California is seeking a collaborative, visionary, and politically astute leader to serve as the next CEO. As the organization’s chief strategist, brand steward, and operational head, the CEO works
Intersearch Worldwide Elects Chairwoman and New Board Members
InterSearch Worldwide, a global alliance of executive search companies, has announce the newly elected board following and the appointment of Vanessa Delacourt as chairwoman, marking an exciting new chapter and reinforcing the organization’s commitment to innovation and sustainable growth. The board has welcomed: Leslie Cooper A. (Chile); Vanessa Delacourt (Benelux); Frank Schelstraete (Belgium); Henri Vidalinc
The Platform Shift Reshaping Human Capital M&A
Hunt Scanlon Ventures’ 2026 Human Capital Markets Update: Q1 M&A Report points to a market undergoing rapid institutionalization. Human capital M&A is no longer centered around standalone recruiting firms or opportunistic acquisitions. Instead, buyers are consolidating around integrated platforms that combine executive search, leadership advisory, workforce analytics, succession planning, and AI-enabled infrastructure. The shift reflects a broader
WittKieffer Recruits 22nd President for the University of Tulsa
Oak Brook, IL-based WittKieffer has placed Stacy Leeds as the 22nd president of the University of Tulsa (UTulsa). Zachary Smith, Robin Mamlet, and Julia Bradley led the assignment. Ms. Leeds was selected following a competitive and comprehensive national search. Members of the search committee and full board were drawn to her unique portfolio of executive management, philanthropic success and unimpeachable academic credibility. “Stacy
SPMB Recruits CFO for AbsenceSoft
SPMB Executive Search has recruited Megan Wood as CFO of AbsenceSoft, a Denver, CO-based employee leave management and accommodations platform. Jon Landau and Laura Ayre led the assignment. “The market opportunity in front of AbsenceSoft is significant, and Megan brings the right financial and operational depth to meet it,” said Chris Murphy, CEO of AbsenceSoft. “Her proven track record at fast-growth, innovative companies on
AGB Search Helps Recruit 20th President for the University of Montana
Washington, D.C.-based recruitment firm AGB Search, which specializes in higher education leadership assignments, has assisted in the recruitment of Jeremiah Shinn as the 20th president of the University of Montana. His selection follows a national search that drew more than 70 accomplished applicants from across the country. Roderick McDavis, James H. McCormick and Janice S. Fitzgerald led the assignment. “Dr. Shinn’s on-campus visit
TurnkeyZRG Appoints Vice President
TurnkeyZRG has expanded with the addition of Sean Magee as vice president. “College and professional football are being reshaped in real time — by revenue sharing, NIL, the transfer portal, and unprecedented financial and operational complexity,” said Chad Chatlos, managing partner, ZRG Turnkey. “Sean lived inside that disruption as a senior operator. He understands what it
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.
The Evolving CFO: Seven Traits Defining High-Impact Finance Leaders
The chief financial officer has emerged as one of the most pivotal figures in the C-suite, tasked with steering organizations through volatility, digital transformation, and heightened investor scrutiny. No longer confined to stewardship and reporting, today’s finance leaders are expected to influence enterprise strategy, guide capital allocation, and help chart the company’s long-term trajectory. As
The Ultimate Guide to Assisting CFOs — From Recruitment to Reaching Growth Goals
Today’s CFO serves as a strategic leader, guiding the organization in financial planning and risk management while aligning financial goals with overall business objectives. They leverage data analytics to drive informed decision-making, collaborate with other executives, and ensure transparency with stakeholders. However in recent years, the CFO role has shifted from being primarily focused on
Massey Henry Recruits CFO for Peoples Group
Toronto-based executive search firm Massey Henry has assisted in the recruitment of Tim Wilson as the new CFO of Peoples Group. Current CFO Samson Lim is retiring later this year. “Massey Henry is pleased to have once again served as a trusted partner of Peoples Group — this time in the appointment of Tim Wilson as chief financial
Kirby Bates Associates Assists South Denver Gastroenterology with COO Search
Orlando, FL-headquartered healthcare-focused search firm Kirby Bates Associates has placed Troy Keach as the new chief operating officer of South Denver Gastroenterology, P.C. Leading the assignment were Livonne Engebrecht, senior executive recruiter, and Mr. Keach, who is Kirby Bates’ vice president search services. Mr. Keach brings more than 20 years experience to his role. His healthcare career started
Johnson Downie and Lippman Jungers Join Forces to Create CenterPeak
Legal search firms Johnson Downie and Lippman Jungers recently formed a strategic merger combining the expertise and networks of Sabina Lippman, Clint Johnson, Mark Jungers, and their respective colleagues. The name of the new firm is CenterPeak. Combined, the two firms have placed more than 2,000 law firm partners and opened more than 40 offices
Fairway Consulting Group Appoints VP of Executive Search
Executive search firm Fairway Consulting Group has expanded with the addition of Brennan Clark as vice president of executive search. “As we further expand our business globally, we are excited to welcome Brennan to our leadership team,” said Dan Gold, president of Fairway Consulting Group. “Our clients will benefit from his unique experience and insights.” Mr. Brennan
ZRG Acquires Bravanti
ZRG, a global talent advisory firm and portfolio company of RFE Investment Partners, has acquired Bravanti, a Chicago-based advisory firm specializing in services including executive coaching, executive team coaching, developing leaders, and outplacement/career transition services. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. “Bravanti brings expertise in three key areas: executive coaching, leadership acceleration, and outplacement career transition,”
Bespoke Partners Forms Alliance with Alphaskill
San Diego, CA-headquartered Bespoke Partners has formed an alliance with Alphaskill, a U.K.-based executive search and deal advisory firm. The partnership is intended to enable private equity firm portfolio companies to accelerate execution on geographic expansion strategies. “We’re seeing an increase in European companies looking to expand into the U.S. and hire their first U.S country
Bryant Group Recruits CFO for The Weingart Center
Following a nationwide search, Dallas-based executive search and talent development firm Bryant Group has placed Tim Groff as the new chief financial officer for The Weingart Center. The search was led by firm president Chris Bingley. “Bryant Group worked to understand the needs of the organization throughout the recruitment process, resulting in a hire that will both complement current
Buffkin / Baker Assists Augusta University with President Search
Partner-led executive search firm Buffkin / Baker recently assisted in the recruitment of Russell Keen as the new president of Augusta University. Partner Ann Yates and associate Dinah DeWitt led the assignment. Her appointment follows an announcement last fall by AU president Brooks Keel, that he would retire following the 2023-24 academic year, ending a 40-year career in higher education. Reporting to the
TRANSEARCH International Opens New Office in South Korea
TRANSEARCH International has opened a new office in South Korea. Heading the new office is managing partner JH Baek. “This addition is a significant milestone for us, as it strengthens our presence in a key market that is critical to the growth and development of the Asia-Pacific region,” said Celeste Whatley, CEO of TRANSEARCH International. “South
Executives Prioritize Financial Rewards Over Job Titles
Despite evolving workplace trends emphasizing holistic motivators, reports continue to find that executives prioritize monetary incentives as a key validation of their efforts and value. Additionally, while company culture and alignment with organizational missions are important, Cowen Partners Executive Search’s Annual State of Executive Employment Survey found that executives place a stronger emphasis on competitive pay
Villanova University Retains WittKieffer to Find VP for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Oak Brook-IL-based WittKieffer has been called in by Villanova University to lead in its search for a vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion (VPDEI). Leading the assignment are consultant Charlene Aguilar, senior associate Sandra Chu, and senior partner Robin Mamlet. The VP for diversity, equity and inclusion is a member of the president’s cabinet and reports directly to
Funk Associates Assists Purdue for Life Foundation with CEO Search
Funk Associates has assisted in the recruitment of Julie Dussliere, a Purdue alumna and longtime executive with the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC), as president and chief executive officer of the Purdue for Life Foundation. She was selected following a national search that included the assistance of Funk Associates and resulted in a large and
True Appoints Head of Talent Advisory in North America
Global talent provider True has named Tom Granado as the new head of talent advisory in North America. With his extensive leadership advisory background, he will collaborate with Debu Mishra, global head of talent advisory, to enhance the practice’s leadership impact. “Tom’s experience helping companies strategically define what clear leadership, successful talent management, and cultural alignment looks like will
TeamBridge Secures $28 Million in Funding
Workforce operating system TeamBridge has raised $28 million in a Series B round led by Mayfield, with participation from existing investors General Catalyst and Abstract Ventures. The new funds will be used to accelerate the product and AI roadmap, enhance client services, and continue to scale its enterprise-grade infrastructure. “Most tech companies are building for
Global Recruitment Outlook Steady for the Fourth Quarter Despite Year-Over-Year Decline
Global hiring intentions are holding steady for the fourth quarter of 2024, with a Net Employment Outlook (NEO) of 25 percent, though outlooks remain weaker compared to the fourth quarter of 2023 according to the latest ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey. The survey, which gathered data from over 40,000 employers across 42 countries between July 1-31,
The Talent Studios Recruits CEO for ZICO Coconut Water
The Talent Studios has placed Chris Gallant as the new CEO of coconut water and hydration brand ZICO Coconut Water. Jeremy Cohen and Serena Smith led the assignment for The Talent Studios. Past CEO Tom Hicks will transition to chief commercial officer, continuing to lead ZICO’s sales and distribution efforts. “We are excited to welcome
Heidrick & Struggles Places Chief Marketing Officer for FloQast
Executive search, leadership consulting, and culture shaping services provider Heidrick & Struggles has recruited Ben Schechter as the new chief marketing officer of accounting transformation platform FloQast in Los Angeles. “Ben’s extensive experience in building and scaling marketing organizations, along with his proven ability to drive growth through innovative multi-channel strategies, makes him a valuable addition to the
SearchWide Global Names Global Head of New Division, SearchWide Connect
Executive recruitment firm SearchWide Global has appointed Wendy Moran as the global head of its new division, SearchWide Connect. “This strategic move comes as part of the firm’s commitment to addressing the growing demand for swift and high-quality mid-level management placements in all sectors currently being served in the retained search division,” the search firm said. “We
Signium Expands in France
Executive search consortium Signium has expanded with the addition of three new partners in France. The new partners include Pascal Moreau-Luchaire, managing director of PG&C Consulting, Alexandre Trotto, director at Hajime RH, and François Barbier, founder of FB Consulting. “France has always been a strategic market for Signium and we are delighted to welcome such experienced and successful individuals to the Signium
Unveiling the CEO’s Ultimate Role: Why Ensuring the Right Leader is Key to Organizational Success
Many have debated the single most important role of a CEO, often focusing on strategy, culture, vision, and shareholder value. Nobody could so precisely synthesize the unending responsibilities of a CEO into a single most important role. However, Price Harding and CarterBaldwin believes there is one … Mr. Harding explains that a simple search of
The Christopher Group Recruits Chief People Officer for Ideal Image
The Christopher Group (TCG), a boutique HR executive search and business solutions recruiting firm, has placed Monna Nevils as the new chief people officer of Ideal Image. Managing partners Nat Schiffer and Ayla Maloney led the assignment. “Leadership transitions can present both challenges and opportunities,” said Mr. Schiffer. “Recently, I had the privilege of collaborating with the interim CEO
ON Partners Expands Search Staff
ON Partners named Chris Clements and Ashley Day as partners. Based in San Francisco, Mr. Clements is an experienced search executive with expertise in energy transition, climate tech, industrials, and software sectors. “Chris’ passion and expertise make him an invaluable asset to our team,” said Bryan Buck, partner. “His experience enhances our focus on technology and
DRiWaterstone Human Capital Partners with Bryan & Jordan Consulting
Arlington, VA-based DRiWaterstone Human Capital has formed a partnership with Bryan & Jordan Consulting LLC, a Richmond, VA-based consulting firm focused on historical organizations, museums, libraries, and educational institutions. “With this collaboration, we can better serve public history and education clients through our partnership with specialized consultants with deep, industry-specific networks,” said Doug Trout, CEO at DRiWaterstone.
When Ghosting Reappears to Haunt Your Career Opportunities
Every time a person makes a decision to not do the right thing regarding the search for a new job or trying to change careers, it will come back to haunt them, according to Russ Riendeau, Ph.D., senior partner and chief behavioral scientist with New Frontier Search Company. “The trail of evidence around a lack of self-awareness, common
Harris Search Associates Assists Simmons University with Search for New Dean
After a comprehensive search process, Harris Search Associates assisted Simmons University in the recruitment of Ammina Kothari to serve as the new dean of the Gwen Ifill School of Media, Humanities, and Social Sciences. Jeffrey Harris and Jon Schwantes led the assignment. The appointment of Dr. Kothari follows an expansive search which included vetting more than 60 candidates.
Furst Group Recruits Chief People Officer for Fairview Health Services
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
Academic Career & Executive Search Places CEO and Dean, School of Nursing at Tarleton State University
Following a national search, Academic Career & Executive Search (ACES) has placed John Michael Leger as chief executive officer and dean, school of nursing at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, TX. Jennifer Muller, managing partner, led the search. “Dr. Leger is well-equipped to lead our School of Nursing, having over 20 years of experience as a
L.Maxwell Global Appoints New CEO
Executive search firm L.Maxwell Global has named Kevin P. LeCompte as CEO. “As a private equity operating partner and former CEO of one of the country’s largest private equity backed staffing and professional services firms, Kevin LeCompte understands the unique challenges and opportunities facing leaders in human capital,” said Lisa Maxwell, founder of L.Maxwell Global.
Understanding Organizational Culture
Culture is a complex construct and, as you’d expect, measuring it is equally as complex. The best approach to understanding a company’s culture is by taking a holistic measurement approach, according to Jeffrey Hanrahan, Ph.D, director of organizational optimization, TI Verbatim Consulting, a culture assessment and DEI-oriented consulting firm. “This includes a combination of survey
BarkerGilmore’s 2024 Compliance Compensation Report: Rising CCO Pay and Gender Pay Gaps Highlight Industry Trends
As a compliance professional, how does your compensation benchmark against that of your peers? How can your organization leverage compensation to create a competitive advantage within its compliance department? To answer these questions, BarkerGilmore has released its 2024 Compliance Compensation Report. The report reflects changes in chief compliance officer (CCO) total compensation, factoring in salary,
