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Shelli Herman and Associates Recruits President and CEO of Mystic Aquarium
Following an extensive national search, Los Angeles-based Shelli Herman and Associates has placed Rachel Metz as the new president and CEO of Mystic Aquarium. She will succeed Susette Tibus, who has led Mystic Aquarium since April 2023 and has been a recognized leading champion for the Aquarium for decades. “Rachel is an accomplished, thoughtful and inspiring leader whose experience
Academic Search Seeking Provost for James Madison University
Education-focused executive recruitment firm Academic Search has been selected by James Madison University to lead in its search for a new provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. Senior consultant Ann Die Hasselmo, consultant Christopher Butler, and associate consultant Kate Cusimano are leading the assignment. The school seeks an innovative and responsive leader to serve as its next provost and senior
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
Why PE Organizations Need to Apply Their Own Playbook to Themselves
Private equity firms have long applied rigorous operating frameworks to the companies they acquire, but many have yet to bring that same discipline to their own organizations. As market conditions demand stronger operational execution and more consistent value creation, leading firms are rethinking how they structure teams, define leadership roles, and integrate operating expertise across
October Job Gains Stand at Only 12,000 Ahead of Election
Employment rose by 12,000 in October as the U.S. unemployment rate was unchanged 4.1 percent, according to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report. The number of unemployed persons was 7.0 million in October. Employment continued to trend up in healthcare and government. Temporary help services lost jobs. Employment declined in manufacturing due to strike activity.
Myers McRae Recruits Dean for the Arnold School of Public Health at the University of South Carolina
Macon, GA-based Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting recently assisted the University of South Carolina in the recruitment of accomplished public health leader Tara Sabo-Attwood as the new dean of the Arnold School of Public Health. Ms. Sabo-Attwood will take the helm of the Arnold School from retiring dean, Tommy Chandler, who served the school for 17 years.
Odgers Berndtson Names Head of the Canadian Education Practice
Executive search firm Odgers Berndtson has named Julia Robarts as country as head of the Canadian education practice. Ms. Robarts joined Odgers Berndtson 17 years ago and has become a trusted advisor to universities, colleges, and schools across the country. “I’m very happy to share that I’ll be leading our work across the country as head of
Speed, Communication, and AI are Key to Keeping Top Talent Engaged With Search Firms
What does it take to produce a satisfied, loyal talent community? Speed and accuracy in search and match, and clear, timely communication top the list, according to a recent report from Bullhorn. The recruiting software provider surveyed more than 2,400 global workers on their experiences working with search firms in 2024 to produce this year’s GRID Talent
True Recruits COO for Wonder
Global talent provider True has assisted in the recruitment of Tony Hoggett as the new chief operating officer of Wonder. Todd Zangrillo, Joe Illsley, Hannah James, and Alan Cork led the assignment. “At Wonder, we are deeply committed to investing in exceptional talent as we strategically shape our company’s future,” said Marc Lore, founder and CEO. “Bringing
Isaacson, Miller Seeking President for Marquette University
Boston-based Isaacson, Miller was recently retained by Marquette University to lead in its search for its 25th president. Vice president and director Julie Filizetti, partner Phillip Petree, and senior associate Rafael Escobedo, are leading the assignment. Past president Michael Lovell recently died after a three-year battle with cancer. The president serves as the CEO for Marquette and
Egon Zehnder Names Co-Leaders of the Global Technology Officers Practice Group
Leadership advisory firm Egon Zehnder has named Joon Yoon and Sven Michaelis as co-leaders of the global technology officers practice group. “I am thrilled to take on this new co-leadership role for the global technology officers practice group at Egon Zehnder,” said Mr. Yoon. “As technology and innovation continue to advance at an unprecedented pace, the demand for
Friisberg & Partners Appoints Chief Business Development Strategy Officer
Friisberg & Partners International has added Sabine Pirkner to its executive board as chief business development strategy officer. In her new position, she will be responsible for leading and shaping the firm’s business development strategy, furthering its growth and market expansion goals. “We are delighted to have Sabine on our executive team,” said Zoltan Petho, chair
The Evolving Role of Leadership Advisory Services in Executive Search
Leadership advisory services are consulting offerings that help organizations enhance their leadership effectiveness through tailored development programs, coaching, and succession planning. They focus on assessing and aligning leadership strategies with organizational goals while managing change and talent. Ultimately, these services empower leaders to drive performance and foster a positive organizational culture. Leadership advisory services have
Funk Associates Recruits Dean for the University of South Alabama College of Engineering
Funk Associates recently assisted in the recruitment of Darryl James as dean of the University of South Alabama College of Engineering. He takes over the deanship from John Usher, who will remain on faculty. “Dr. James brings a wealth of experience to South, both as a faculty member, and as a highly effective leader,” said Andi Kent,
Renovata & Company Recruits Chief Revenue Officer for Cleversoft
Global executive search and private equity advisory firm Renovata & Company has placed Gerard McNamara as chief revenue officer of Cleversoft, a cloud-based RegTech company. “Gerard has an impressive track record in scaling software companies and building dynamic teams who execute rigorously,” said Lucy Brealy, principal at Renovata. “He has deep expertise in commercial strategy and building go-to
Mercuri Urval Names Global Practice Head of the Public Sector
Stockholm, Sweden-based executive search firm Mercuri Urval (MU) has named Christian Nyhlén as partner and global practice head of the public sector. “The public sector practice is a multifaceted environment with many different layers,” said Mr. Nyhlén. “Especially in a complex, volatile and rapidly changing world the demands on leadership will be higher and more challenging than ever.
Lyneer Search Group Appoints Director of Branding and Content
Lyneer Search Group, an executive talent acquisition firm specializing in finance and executive roles, has expanded with the addition of Karen Childers as director of branding and content. “We are thrilled to welcome Karen to the Lyneer Search Group team,” said Scott Noga, vice president. “Karen’s expertise in digital marketing and her vision for creating
A Look at the Growing Need for Cybersecurity Executives
The market for cybersecurity recruiting is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats faced by organizations globally. Companies are seeking skilled professionals to protect their data and infrastructure, leading to high demand for cybersecurity talent across various industries, executive recruiters tell Hunt Scanlon Media. This competitive landscape has resulted
McDermott + Bull Recruits U.S. Leader for Rayner
Irvine, CA-based search firm McDermott + Bull recently assisted in the recruitment of Scott Corning as vice president, Americas, for Rayner, a global manufacturer of products for cataract surgery headquartered in Worthing, U.K. The search was completed by partner Jake Vander Zanden, and head of search operations Mallory McDermott. Mr. Corning will play a pivotal role in developing and executing
Work&Partners Fills Senior Positions for Toppan Merrill
New York-based Work&Partners has recruited John Dalton as director of product management and Chelsi Tryon as director of ESG for Toppan Merrill, further strengthening the company’s leadership team. “The additions of both Chelsi Tryon and John Dalton to the Toppan Merrill team will have a positive impact going forward across their all business lines and product
Reffett Associates Appoints Leader of Consumer Practice
Seattle, WA-based Reffett Associates has expanded with the addition of Tom Danowski to lead its consumer practice. “Tom is an exceptional executive,” said Marshall Reffett, managing director of Reffett’s Seattle office. “He brings deep industry experience and will be a great compliment to not only our team but, also to our clients.” “Tom Danowski brings years of leadership
Archer Search Partners Opens Doors
Venture-backed executive search firm Archer Search Partners has been launched by Alexis DuFresne and Fraser Trimble, specializing in aligning human capital strategies with business goals for asset managers. The firm places investment and distribution professionals at alternative asset management firms. Clients include private equity, credit, and hedge fund firms. The firm also offers fractional human
Predicting Talent Acquisition Trends for 2025
As organizations navigate the post-AI boom and the shift to skills-based hiring, many are experiencing analysis paralysis, but now is the time to act with purpose. Korn Ferry recently surveyed over 400 talent acquisition professionals and consulted with more than 40 of its experts to uncover five key hiring trends shaping 2025, including the critical
How Executive Search Firms Adapt
In today’s dynamic hiring landscape, executive search firms like BrainWorks are adapting their strategies to focus on stable sectors such as technology, healthcare, and essential services during uncertain times. BrainWorks recently joined Hunt Scanlon Media to discuss how recruiting firms can meet evolving client needs by adjusting search strategies and leveraging advanced tools. Key insights from
McCormack+Kristel Recruits Executive Director for the National LGBTQ+ Bar Association
Executive search firm McCormack+Kristel has placed Anya Lynn-Alesker (they/she) as executive director of the National LGBTQ+ Bar Association. “We are confident that Lynn-Alesker will lead our organization to new heights as we continue our important mission of promoting justice in and through the legal profession for the LGBTQ+ community in all its diversity,” said Bendita Cynthia Malakia,
Collegiate Sports Associates Assists St. Johns with Director of Athletics Search
Raleigh, NC-based Collegiate Sports Associates recently assisted in the recruitment of alumnus Ed Kull as the eighth vice president and director of athletics for St. John’s University. “Ed Kull has demonstrated a commitment to excellence on and off the field of competition,” said Rev. Brian J. Shanley, president of St. John’s University. “This is an important hire
JM Search Expands Team Focused on Recruiting Key Executives Across the Financial Services Sector
JM Search, a senior-level talent provider serving private equity investors, portfolio companies, and Fortune 1000s, has expanded its team of experts dedicated to recruiting executives for financial services organizations and fintech businesses. “JM Search is seeing increased demand for key leaders within financial services, including investment management, banking, consumer & commercial finance, fintech, and insurance, and is committed to
The Transformation of HR in the Age of AI
The integration of artificial intelligence into HR is not a trend; it’s a transformative shift that is reshaping how organizations manage people, optimize processes, and drive innovation. As businesses seek to enhance efficiency and effectiveness while fostering a more dynamic and engaging workplace, AI and automation are increasingly being implemented into HR strategies, according to
Acertitude Assists Sterling Site Access Solutions with CEO Search
Executive search firm Acertitude recently assisted in the recruitment of Kaye Ceille as the new CEO of Sterling Site Access Solutions in Chicago. Kevin O’Neill, co-founder, managing partner, and leader of the industrial practice at Acertitude, led the search together with Max Stubenvoll, principal overseeing business services in North America. “In our search for CEO, we looked
The SAFE Alliance Taps Peña Search to Find Chief Development Officer
The SAFE Alliance (SAFE) recently retained Peña Search to lead in its search for a new chief development officer. Holly Sherman Peña and Carlos González Peña are leading the assignment. The chief development officer is a critical member of SAFE’s executive and senior leadership teams. In collaboration with the CEO and others, the CDO will help co-create,
TurnkeyZRG Expands Revenue Functional Practice
TurnkeyZRG has expanded with the addition of Jamie Spencer as a managing director within the revenue functional practice. “Jamie Spencer has been a top revenue executive for 25+ years – especially in tickets, premium and season ticket holder programs,” said Len Perna, chairman and CEO of TurnkeyZRG. “Jamie is joining TurnkeyZRG as our managing director to
NPAworldwide Adds 11 New Member Firms
Member-owned recruitment network NPAworldwide has added 11 new member firms. The new partners are located in the U.S., Canada, Australia, Spain and the U.K., with recruitment specialties including engineering, healthcare, information technology, sales, and more across multiple industry sectors. “Congratulations to each of our new member firms,” said NPAworldwide. “By joining our recruiting network, these firms are
A Look at Key Trends in Executive Recruiting for Private Equity-Backed Companies
A long-awaited interest rate cut in the U.S. finally arrived in September. Bespoke Partners’ Second Half 2024 Private Equity Talent Report asks will it thaw the deep freeze gripping private equity deal-flow and exits? Signs were that prospective deals in late Q2 and early Q3 had already priced in the expected rate cut and deals
Russell Reynolds Associates Recruits CFO for Rexford Industrial Realty
Global leadership advisory firm Russell Reynolds Associates has placed Michael Fitzmaurice as the new CFO of NYSE-traded Rexford Industrial Realty, Inc. in Los Angeles. Deb Barbanel and Nick Roberts led the assignment. “We are very pleased to welcome Michael Fitzmaurice to the Rexford Industrial team,” said Michael Frankel and Howard Schwimmer, co-chief executive officers of the company. “Michael is a strategic,
AGB Search Seeking Chancellor for the University of Colorado Denver
Washington, D.C.-based recruitment firm AGB Search, which specializes in higher education leadership assignments, was recently retained by the University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) to lead in its search for a new chancellor. Roderick McDavis, Monica Burton, Kimberly Templeton, and Carlos Hernandez are leading the assignment. The chancellor is the campus’s chief executive officer, reports to the CU







