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Wray Executive Search Names VP of Recruiting
Wray Executive Search, a provider of executive search and advisory services in the restaurant, foodservice, retail, and franchise industries, has expanded with the addition of Jonathan Kelley as vice president of recruiting. “Jonathan’s energy, responsiveness, and consultative approach align perfectly with how we serve our clients,” said Kevin Stockslager and Ray Kelley, managing partners. “He understands
Rising Demand for Data Expertise Forces Shift in Talent Strategy
In recent years, data has become business’s most valuable resource. Data analytics is no longer just an IT function, according to a recent report from 180 Engineering. It has become critical to a company’s ability to innovate, optimize operations, and respond to shifting market demands. “However, as business leaders become increasingly aware of the importance of
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.
Zemantics Ventures Expands Healthcare Workforce Platform with Dual Acquisition
Hunt Scanlon Ventures has served as buy-side M&A advisor to Zemantics Ventures in its acquisition of Consilium360 and MedWell360, strengthening Zemantics’ healthcare services portfolio and expanding its enterprise workforce and operational solutions capabilities nationwide. The deals bring together complementary capabilities across healthcare HR strategy, workforce process optimization, scheduling, and access center operations — forming a more integrated, technology-enabled
N2Growth Expands in the U.K.
N2Growth, a Philadelphia-based management consulting and executive search firm, has appointed Richard Armstrong as partner in its London office. He will spearhead the expansion of N2Growth’s executive search practice across the U.K. focusing on executive search, board of directors, and C-suite searches. “We are thrilled to welcome Richard Armstrong to the N2Growth team,” said Kelli Vukelic, CEO of N2Growth. “Richard’s
A Candidate Placed; One Year Into the Job
The Energists is a boutique executive search firm focused on the energy sector. Its client list is diverse across the energy industry, geographies, and business scenarios. A boutique, high integrity firm established in 1979, The Energists operates exclusively within the energy industry. Its staff comprises accomplished industry professionals and leaders, each with their own area
Caldwell Appoints CEO; Makes Other Senior Management Changes
Toronto-based Caldwell has appointed Chris Beck as president and CEO. He will succeed John Wallace, who will assume the role of executive chair. Additionally, the independent directors of the board have selected John Young as lead independent director. “The board and I have tremendous confidence in Chris, and we know that his combination of experience, skills and vision uniquely prepares
Myers McRae Retained by Winthrop University to Lead CFO Search
Macon, GA-based Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting has been retained by Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC, to lead in its search for a vice president for finance and business and chief financial officer. Kenny Daugherty, the search firm’s president, led the assignment, along with Jessica Thompson, associate vice president and executive search coordinator. As a leader for
Isaacson, Miller Seeking Chief People Officer
Boston-based Isaacson, Miller is currently looking to hire a chief people officer. The firm is seeking a visionary chief people officer who can guide its people strategy and operations. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced leader to influence organizational change, enhance employee experiences, and help shape a thriving, inclusive environment. Reporting to the president
Assembly Group Recruits Chief Technology Officer for Prometheus Group
Chief technology officers are crucial because they drive the technological vision and strategy of an organization, ensuring that technology investments align with business goals, according to executive recruiters. They oversee the development and implementation of innovative solutions, manage the technology team, and stay ahead of industry trends to keep the company competitive. Austin, TX-based executive
How Search Firms are Winning Through M&A and Unlocking Value
Talk to just about any executive search firm founder today and the conversation does not take long to come around to the topic of mergers and acquisitions. Over the last five years, M&A activity across the executive recruiting sector has reached fever pitch. “Consolidation among competitors has been reshaping the industry unlike any previous time,”
CFO Turnover Reaches Three-Year High
CFO turnover can have significant implications for a company, as these executives play a critical role in managing financial strategies, reporting, risk management, and overall financial health. A total of 163 new CFOs were appointed in the first half of 2024, according to Russell Reynolds Associates’ Global CFO Turnover Index. After slower starts to the
Kirk Palmer Associates Recruits Chief Brand Officer for Eighth Day
Retail-focused executive search firm Kirk Palmer Associates has assisted in the recruitment of Alison Devine as chief brand officer of Eighth Day. Partner Lindsay Stevens, principal Courtney Schluender, and search manager Sarah Basto led the assignment. “Skincare brand Eighth Day sought a chief branding officer to create passion and loyalty among discerning consumers and build an iconic
A Look at the Trends Impacting Executive Search
With over two decades of experience in the executive search industry, countless trends have impacted the way Grey Search + Strategy approaches their work. “Today, clients are navigating a complex web of emerging technologies, new regulations, changing workplace dynamics, and shifting company and candidate expectations,” the firm said. In this article, Grey Search + Strategy
The Talent Studios Recruits Chief Marketing Officer for Summit Golf Brands
As organizations become more complex and power shifts from producers of goods and services to consumers, the chief marketing officer’s job of planning and coordinating marketing activities has become more challenging — and much more influential. The Talent Studios recently recruited Thomas De Stio as the new chief marketing officer of Summit Golf Brands. Jeremy Cohen, Kelli Telling,
DHR Global Expands New Bangalore Office
Talent advisory firm DHR Global has named Srinivas Maddali as managing partner in the healthcare, life sciences, technology, and private equity practice groups. Based in DHR’s new Bangalore office, Mr. Maddali’s appointment supports the firm’s continued growth and expansion in India. As managing partner, he will assist Indian and multinational organizations in finding senior executive talent. “DHR’s
Advice to New CEOs Building Their Team: Lead with Purpose, Embody Culture & Be Decisive
In Spencer Stuart’s role supporting hundreds of CEO transitions annually, one of the most common aspirations they hear from incoming leaders is the desire to develop an executive leadership team of direct reports that is enterprise-focused, highly collaborative, accountable to each other and widely respected. This ambition is well-founded: Aligned leadership teams grow revenue more
E.A. Hughes, a Division of Solomon Page, Fills Board Position for American Eagle Outfitters
E.A. Hughes & Co., a division of Solomon Page specializing in retail and consumer-focused executive search, has partnered with American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. to identify and place Stephanie Pugliese on its board of directors. Managing director Elaine Hughes spearheaded the search with a personalized approach, tailored to meet the specific needs of American Eagle Outfitters. Her strategy focused on understanding the company’s
Sprockets Acquires HourWork
Sprockets, an AI-powered solution that helps businesses source, screen, and hire quality workers, has acquired HourWork, an AI-powered platform that focuses on post-hire engagement and increased retention. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. This strategic acquisition allows Sprockets to expand its product suite, offering businesses staffing services that cover every stage of the
How Strategic HR Leaders Unleash Workforce Potential
The hot U.S. labor market has shown remarkable resilience in recent years. Despite gradual stabilization—driven by a decrease in job openings and recent upticks in the national unemployment rate—the tumultuous echoes of the Great Resignation and quiet quitting continue to disrupt industries. As the war for top talent wages on, hiring, retention, and employee engagement will remain top business priorities in the new
Furst Group Recruits CEO for Kearney Regional Medical Center
Executive recruitment firm Furst Group, which serves the healthcare and insurance industries, has assisted in the recruitment of Douglas Koch as the new CEO of Kearney Regional Medical Center (KRMC) in Kearney, AK. “Doug’s Midwestern roots, education and vast operational experience are an ideal fit for the Bryan Health administrative leadership team and to lead KRMC as it
TalentRise Expands Coaching and Leadership Development Practice
TalentRise has appointed Laura Barker as the new director of coaching and leadership development. “Laura’s profound expertise in leadership coaching and her diverse experience in various industries make her a valuable addition to our team,” said Kristen Fox Lampert, practice leader, coaching and leadership development of TalentRise. “We are confident that Laura’s contributions will significantly enhance
Non-Profits Seek New Kinds of Leaders with Help from Search Firms
Executive search for the non-profit sector often mirrors broader hiring trends, with a distinct focus on leadership, strategic vision, and organizational impact. Recruiters say that non-profits, generally, are increasingly seeking executives and management teams who can provide strong leadership, articulate a compelling vision, and inspire stakeholders. Like most sectors, there is a growing emphasis on
Reffett Associates Recruits President for the New Mexico Military Institute
After a nationwide, Seattle, WA-based Reffett Associates has placed Brigadier General Voris McBurnette as the 20th president and superintendent of the New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI). The search was led by Eric Reffett, managing director of the Washington, D.C. office, Thomas Young, director of operations of the firm, and Marshall Reffett, managing director in Seattle, and Washington D.C. “(Brigadier)
Signium Opens New Office in Sydney
Executive search consortium Signium has opened a new office in Sydney, Australia. “This expansion marks a significant milestone for the company, enhancing its ability to provide bespoke services to clients in the region,” the consortium said. The Sydney office will be led by Stephen Lennard, a seasoned executive search professional and former Signium partner from 2006 to 2011. He
Embracing Technology to Improve Your Recruitment Processes
Living amid a digital revolution has truly reshaped the way we interact, especially in business. Technology has afforded faster communication and the ability to connect more easily –– transforming how business is conducted across industries. Achieving success in our ever-changing technological landscape requires a sharp set of skills and the willingness for continual professional development.
Lindauer Fills Senior Position for the Council for Advancement and Support of Education
The Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) partnered with Lindauer to find an educational leader to provide innovative and strategic leadership for its education division. Paula Fazli and Cori Anderson of the firm assisted in the recruitment of Stephen Martin as vice president of education and a member of the executive leadership team. “Leading educational institutions
The Barton Partnership Opens New Office in Sydney
The Barton Partnership, a U.K.-based executive search firm, has opened a new office in Sydney, Australia. “This expansion marks a significant milestone for The Barton Partnership, reinforcing its commitment to the Asia-Pacific region and enhancing our ability to support clients across Australia,” the firm said. “Australia is a key market for us, and opening an
More Than Half of U.S. Companies Anticipate Adding New Positions in the Second Half of 2024
Fifty-two percent of companies in the United States plan to add new permanent positions in the second half of the year, according to new research from talent solutions and business consulting firm Robert Half. Another 43 percent plan to fill for vacated positions, and 57 percent said they plan to increase the number of contract
Bridge Partners Seeking VP, Diversity and Inclusion, Strategy & Impact for Fannie Mae
Tory Clarke and Debbie Tang of Bridge Partners have been retained by Fannie Mae to lead in its search for a vice president of diversity and inclusion, strategy & impact. This role will work collaboratively with stakeholders across Fannie Mae to embed diversity and inclusion (D&I) into all business and activities of the enterprise, while managing related
Kincannon & Reed Names Senior Leader
Executive recruitment firm Kincannon & Reed, which exclusively focuses on food, agribusiness, and the related life sciences, has appointed Sally Day as the managing director of K&R EDGE – Leadership Solutions. “We have seen an increase in the demand for leadership development services, and Sally is exceptionally qualified to lead this division,” said Stephanie Liska, president. “Her extensive
5 Ways to Retain Your Top Talent
In a competitive business environment, often the difference between winning and losing is defined by the ability of your company to firstly attract and then more importantly retain top talent. Successful businesses have done some of these things right and it has been proven over time that these simple strategies have made all the difference
NU Advisory Partners Assists NASCAR’s Homestead-Miami Speedway with President Search
Executive search firm NU Advisory Partners has helped to recruit Guillermo Santa Cruz as president of NASCAR’s Homestead-Miami Speedway. “Guillermo’s vast experience in the competitive media market will help grow Homestead-Miami Speedway into its next phase as one of the preeminent motorsports facilities,” said Chip Wile, NASCAR’s senior vice president and chief track properties officer. “He has a
ZRG Names Managing Director of Consulting Solutions
ZRG, a global talent advisory firm and portfolio company of RFE Investment Partners, has appointed Grant Hartanov as managing director of consulting solutions. “Grant’s extensive experience in digital transformation, strategy, and his background in addressing high-stakes global challenges make him an invaluable addition to our team,” said Larry Hartmann, CEO of ZRG Partners. “We are confident that Grant will
The Art of Onboarding a Senior Executive
The process of bringing in a new executive isn’t merely about filling a vacant position; it’s an investment in the future success of your organization. However, this investment often falls short when it comes to executive onboarding, according to a recent report from SpenglerFox. “Many companies underestimate the critical importance of a well-designed onboarding program, leading
