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Daily Newswire
Private Equity Firms Rethink Executive Hiring for Future Growth
PE investors routinely underwrite businesses based on their future state. For example, an investment thesis may assume a restaurant company will double its unit count, accelerate franchising, expand geographically, complete acquisitions, improve margins, or become significantly more institutionalized during the hold period. Executive hiring, however, often remains anchored to the present, according to a new
ON Partners Recruits CFO for Fortera
Partners Josh Nathanson and Chris Clements along with principal Alexis Rohe of ON Partners have placed Albert Luu as the new CFO of cement manufacturer Fortera in San Jose, CA. “Fortera is at a stage where the work we’ve done to prove the technology now has to be matched by our ability to finance and execute at scale,”
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 M&A Success Is Ultimately a Talent Challenge
In its latest market intelligence findings, The Role of HR in M&A: 5 Golden Rules for CHROs, Spencer Stuart argues that many transactions fail not because of flawed strategy, but because of shortcomings in leadership, culture, talent retention, and organizational execution. While financial and operational diligence often dominate deal planning, the firm’s research suggests that people-related
Kaplan Partners Assists the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) with CHRO Search
Kaplan Partners, which specializes in conducting searches for C-level executives primarily in the financial services, corporate financial, private investor, and technology sectors, has helped to recruit Christopher W. Jackson as CHRO of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Mr. Jackson joined the board’s human resources team and will serve as a member of the agency’s executive team. “Chris
Wilton & Bain Names Leader for Middle East and North Africa
Wilton & Bain has appointed Sami Zouehid to lead the firm’s Middle East and North Africa office. “I am absolutely delighted that Sami has chosen to join us,” said David Heron, CEO. “His values, drive, and sense of ambition directly mirror our own. He stood out head and shoulders aside other candidates we met in our
The Year of CEO Ousters
A CEO fired for a run of slow sales, another forced out due to their inability to regain the confidence of customers and other stakeholders, and a third who resigned because his cost-cutting strategy failed to improve profitability. It appears that 2024 is a year in which many boards have lost patience with CEOs, according
ZRG Acquires Linked4HR Solutions’ Executive Interim & HR Advisory Services
ZRG, a global talent advisory firm and portfolio company of RFE Investment Partners, has acquired Linked4HR Solutions’ executive interim & HR advisory services in the Middle East and Africa (MENA) region. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. With the acquisition the firm added Hicham Hachkal as managing director for interim and HR advisory. “We are
Shelli Herman and Associates Recruits CFO for Saint Louis Zoo
Following a nationwide search, Los Angeles-based Shelli Herman and Associates has recruited Kathy Tisone as the new CFO of the Saint Louis Zoo. She will replace Cassandra J. Brown Ray who retires this month after a successful 32 years at the Zoo. Providing direction, mentorship, and support to this team, Ms. Tisone will evaluate all processes with an
Coulter Partners Recruits CEO for Tristel
Life sciences recruiting specialist Coulter Partners has assisted in the recruitment of Matthew Sassone as the new CEO of Tristel plc, a manufacturer of infection prevention products. He will replace Paul Swinney, the company’s founder and CEO of 30 years, who announced his plans to retire during 2023. Mr. Swinney will remain with the company for a suitable
Ferguson Partners Appoints Leader of Southwest Region
Chicago-based Ferguson Partners has named Matt McAulay as managing director of the firm’s executive search practice in the Southeast region of the U.S. “Matt’s experience, values, and approach to client servicing align perfectly with Ferguson Partners, and his hire further enhances our reputation as the premier real assets talent management firm,” said William J. Ferguson, co-founder, co-chairman,
What to Consider When Hiring an Executive Search Firm
With the pace at which the global business world is moving forward, it has become crucial for every organization to have the right leadership and the winning team by their side. Every organization’s success hinges on having the most efficient executives strategically placed to outmaneuver the competition. But how to find the perfect pieces to
NU Advisory Partners Recruits CFO for Overtime
Executive search firm NU Advisory Partners recently placed Alvin Lobo as the new CFO of Overtime in Brooklyn, NY. “Congratulations Alvin Lobo on joining Overtime as chief financial officer,” NU Advisory Partners said in a LinkedIn post. “We can’t wait to see the incredible impact you’ll make here.” Mr. Lobo most recently served as CFO of mobile
Allen Austin Recruits CHRO for James Avery Artisan Jewelry
Houston, TX-based search firm Allen Austin has assisted in the recruitment of Ty Richardson as the new chief human resources officer of James Avery Artisan Jewelry in Kerrville, TX. “We are thrilled to announce the successful placement of Ty Richardson as the new chief human resources officer at James Avery Artisan Jewelry, a brand renowned for its
JamesDruryPartners Helps The Boston Beer Company Fill Board Position
Recruiting for boards of directors, considered the backbones of organizations, has grown markedly more challenging, say recruiters who conduct searches in that area. As a result, companies continue to turn to executive search firms to help find new board members. Chicago-headquartered JamesDruryPartners recently assisted The Boston Beer Company, Inc. with the recruitment of Joseph Jordan as a new
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)
