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Why PE Firms Need Operational CFOs as Executive Growth Planners
Consider a private equity deal team forced to hold a portfolio company well beyond its planned exit timeline—not because the business underperformed, but because the IPO market stalled and potential buyers disappeared. Today, that scenario is more common than exceptional, a recent report from Odgers explained. “In an era where capital is abundant but exits
Executive Hiring Without Borders: Navigating the Opportunities and Risks
Remote work has transformed how we do business. When it comes to hiring, there are no borders. Companies can choose leaders from around the globe to guide their organizations. While beneficial, this can also present issues, according to a new report from Stahl Recruiting Executive Search, an executive search firm specializing in the railway industry. “When
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.
What a Great Executive Onboarding Plan Actually Looks Like
Executive search firms devote significant time and expertise to identifying leaders capable of driving organizational success, yet the work of ensuring those executives thrive often begins only after the search concludes. As organizations face mounting pressure to maximize leadership investments and accelerate executive impact, onboarding is emerging as a critical extension of the search process
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?
Slone Partners Recruits Chief Scientific Officer for Prolynx
Life sciences-focused search firm Slone Partners has recruited Amer Mirza as chief scientific officer at Prolynx, a biotechnology company developing a next-generation portfolio of ultra-long-acting medicines for obesity and related metabolic conditions. “Dr. Amer Mirza is an accomplished scientific leader whose deep expertise in drug discovery and development and passion for innovation make him exceptionally well suited to serve as
Wilson Appoints New CEO
Global talent solutions provider Wilson has announced a planned leadership transition as founder and CEO John Wilson moves into a role on the board after nearly 24 years leading the company. Jean-Francois Vezina has been appointed CEO and will lead the next phase of Wilson’s growth and innovation. “It was important to me that the company be
ATS vs. CRM: Why Both Matter in Executive Search
An ATS is designed to move candidates through a single search, not to maintain relationships over the years between searches. In executive search, however, those long-term relationships are where most of the revenue is actually generated. A new report from Recruiterflow breaks down the difference between an ATS and an executive search CRM, why relationship-driven
Potrero Group Leads Search for the Leader of Bay Area’s Largest Trail Network
San Francisco-based leadership consulting and search firm Potrero Group has assisted in the recruitment of Kirsten Saenz Tobey as the executive director of the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council. This follows a national search. “Kirsten brings exactly the combination of strategic vision, entrepreneurial leadership, and genuine passion for conservation that this moment calls for,” said Taylor
Caldwell Appoints COO; Announces New Regional Managing Partner Structure
Toronto-based Caldwell has named John Blank as chief operating officer. The firm has also established a new regional managing partner structure designed to support the firm’s continued growth, strengthen operational effectiveness, and enhance coordination across its global platform. In his new role, Mr. Blank will oversee Caldwell’s business and people operations, including regional leadership, talent and people
The Evolution of the CHRO: From Personnel to Enterprise Leadership
The responsibilities of today’s chief human resources officer extend far beyond talent management, reflecting a broader shift in how organizations view leadership and business performance. As workforce transformation, artificial intelligence, and organizational change reshape corporate priorities, the CHRO has become an increasingly influential voice in helping CEOs and boards navigate strategic decisions. Not long ago,
GHP Search Assists Christel House with the Recruitment of New Board Members
GHP Search, formerly known as Greenwich Harbor Partners, has helped Christel House Intl. to recruit John Gomes, partner, global telecom and technology at Bain & Co, and former partner, software at Kearney, Mani Iyer, chief AI and technology officer at Vanguard and former SVP – global head of infrastructure, data and technology at Paypal. Mr. Gomes is a globally recognized transformation and strategy leader in
TOC Arts Partners Assists Union Arts Center with the Recruitment of First Artistic Director
Following an extensive national search, New York City-based TOC Arts Partners has assisted Union Arts Center in Seattle, WA, with the recruitment of Yuvika Tolani as the first permanent artistic director. The search was led by vice president of executive search, Cynthia Fuhrman. “As a former resident of Seattle myself, I have enjoyed many performances
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
ZRG Aspen Leadership Group Seeking Chief of Development for the American LGBTQ+ Museum
ZRG Aspen Leadership Group was recently retained by the American LGBTQ+ Museum to lead in its search for chief of development. Jeanette Rivera-Watts is leading the assignment. Reporting to the executive director, the chief of development will provide the leadership, direction, and coordination of fundraising strategies and activities to advance the mission of the American
Lochlin Partners Recruits CFO for the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association
Lochlin Partners has recruited Janelle Padgett as VP and CFO of the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association in Glen Allen, VA. Ms. Padgett has more than 25 years of progressive executive leadership experience across complex healthcare systems, including multiple CFO, controller, and senior finance leadership roles within both for-profit and non-profit healthcare organizations. Most recently,
Why PE Firms Need Operational CFOs as Executive Growth Planners
Consider a private equity deal team forced to hold a portfolio company well beyond its planned exit timeline—not because the business underperformed, but because the IPO market stalled and potential buyers disappeared. Today, that scenario is more common than exceptional, a recent report from Odgers explained. “In an era where capital is abundant but exits
Executive Hiring Without Borders: Navigating the Opportunities and Risks
Remote work has transformed how we do business. When it comes to hiring, there are no borders. Companies can choose leaders from around the globe to guide their organizations. While beneficial, this can also present issues, according to a new report from Stahl Recruiting Executive Search, an executive search firm specializing in the railway industry. “When
Academic Search Recruits 10th President for the University of Saint Mary
Following a nationwide search, education-focused executive recruiter Academic Search has assisted in the recruitment of Ann Marie Fallon as the 10th president of the University of Saint Mary (USM) in Leavenworth, KS. Senior consultants Suzanne Mellon and Disa Mason led the assignment. She will succeed Sister Diane Steele, who has led USM for 25 years and last summer announced her
Why Human Judgment Will Matter More in the Age of AI
AI will accomplish extraordinary things—but it will also tempt us to mistake output for humanity. It has the potential to boost productivity, reduce costs, accelerate insight and innovation, and, when used thoughtfully, even deepen our self-awareness. As AI agents and systems become increasingly capable of showing reasoning, empathy, and elements of judgment, many people will
The Tolan Group Recruits VP of Payor Strategy at CCRM Fertility
The Tolan Group (TTG) has placed Marianne Fanning as vice president of payor strategy at CCRM Fertility, bringing extensive experience in managed care strategy, payor relations, and reimbursement optimization. Ms. Fanning’s appointment reflects CCRM Fertility’s continued investment in expanding patient access, strengthening payor partnerships, and supporting the organization’s long-term growth strategy. Prior to joining CCRM Fertility,
Kaye/Bassman Names Leader of North Division, Construction and Real Estate Practice
Plano, TX-based executive search firm Kaye/Bassman International (KBIC), a Starfish Partners company, has named Lee Martin as managing director and practice leader of the north division within its construction and real estate practice. In this expanded leadership role, he will lead the continued growth of the firm’s commercial real estate, building construction, and construction technology practices across the northern United States, further advancing KBIC’s integrated
How Executive Search Is Evolving Alongside Private Equity
With private equity firms placing greater emphasis on operational execution and long-term value creation, expectations around leadership strategy are rapidly evolving. Search firms are increasingly being asked to move beyond traditional recruiting models and serve as broader talent advisors aligned with investment outcomes. In this environment, the distinction between transactional hiring and strategic partnership is
DSG | Koya Retained by Gilda’s Club Chicago for CEO Search
DSG | Koya has been tapped by Gilda’s Club Chicago to lead in its search for a new CEO. The search is being led by Cheryl Stevens and Claire Hunt. The next CEO will have the chance to build on Gilda’s Club Chicago’s strong foundation while leaving a lasting mark—expanding its reach, deepening community and healthcare
June Hiring Cools While Unemployment Holds at 4.2 Percent
Employment increased by 57,000 in June as the U.S. unemployment rate stood at 4.2 percent, according to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report. The number of unemployed people, at 7.1 million, changed little in June. Employment continued to trend up in professional and business services, social assistance, and healthcare. Leisure and hospitality lost jobs. The
Bell Oaks Executive Search Seeking Chief Finance and Administrative Officer for the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation
Atlanta-based Bell Oaks Executive Search is currently seeking a chief finance and administrative officer (CFAO) for the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation (WRF). The assignment is being led by partner Cynthia J. Moreland and senior search consultant Abi Gamino. The CFAO will serve as a strategic partner to the CEO and a key member of the executive
Leadership Advisory Enters a New Capital Cycle
Private capital is making one of its strongest moves yet into the leadership advisory sector. Recent investments by KKR in ghSMART and Advent International in Heidrick & Struggles represent more than headline transactions. Together, they signal a growing conviction among investors that leadership advisory firms occupy a unique position within the modern enterprise, helping organizations navigate leadership succession, organizational effectiveness, talent assessment, and
Crist|Kolder Places CFO at Mondelēz International
Crist|Kolder Associates has placed Amit Banati as executive vice president and chief financial officer of NASDAQ-traded Mondelēz International in Chicago. He will report directly to Dirk Van de Put, chair and CEO, and will be a member of the Mondelēz International leadership team. “Amit is a highly experienced CFO who brings a strong blend of financial leadership
Why Searches Lose Discipline Late and How to Prevent It
Even well-run executive searches can lose focus as the process unfolds and pressure to reach a decision begins to mount. Without consistent alignment around the original mandate, organizations risk making compromises that can undermine long-term leadership success. Most executive searches start with real clarity, a recent report from Nashville, TN-based executive search firm Morgan Samuels Company’s
NPAG Assists Proteus Fund with CEO Search
Executive search firm NPAG has assisted in the recruitment of Amardeep Singh the new president and CEO of Proteus Fund and Proteus Action League. He will officially assume the role in September. The Proteus Fund board of directors selected Mr. Singh following a rigorous national search supported by NPAG. The search was led by Ellen LaPointe, Ebony Breaux-Liang, and Andres Marcuse-Gonzalez. “On
How Executive Search Is Evolving Alongside Private Equity
With private equity firms placing greater emphasis on operational execution and long-term value creation, expectations around leadership strategy are rapidly evolving. Search firms are increasingly being asked to move beyond traditional recruiting models and serve as broader talent advisors aligned with investment outcomes. In this environment, the distinction between transactional hiring and strategic partnership is
L.Maxwell Global Appoints Board Advisor
L.Maxwell Global has appointed Frank Tirelli as board advisor. In this role, he will strengthen the firm’s counsel to CEOs, boards, and private equity sponsors, shaping leadership across human capital platforms and professional services investments. “Frank has governed professional services firms from the inside at a scale very few advisors have, and he understands what that work looks
Cornerstone International Group Opens New Office Johannesburg
Cornerstone International Group has opened a new office in Johannesburg to deepen its footprint in South Africa. Leading the new office is Paul O’Brien, an executive search specialist with over 14 years of experience across South Africa, the U.K., Hong Kong, the UAE, and broader Africa. “South Africa is a vital growth frontier where exceptional leadership
Why Your Digital Presence is the New Executive Resume
In an increasingly competitive executive search environment, visibility has become a critical factor in how senior talent is identified, assessed, and ultimately hired. Recruiters and hiring leaders are no longer relying solely on traditional resumes, but instead are leveraging digital platforms to build a more complete and real-time view of candidates. As a result, professionals
The Tolan Group Recruits CFO for Defining Wellness Centers
The Tolan Group (TTG) has placed Bill Morrison as the new CFO of Defining Wellness Centers in Jackson, MS. “Bill has spent his career helping healthcare organizations grow with discipline and clarity,” said Drew Rothermel, CEO of Defining Wellness Centers. “We’re entering an important phase of growth, and his experience building financial infrastructure and supporting strategic
6 Proven Rules of C-Suite Succession Planning
As leadership transitions become more frequent and stakes continue to rise, boards are facing increasing pressure to ensure continuity at the top. Yet many organizations remain underprepared, exposing themselves to significant operational and financial risk when succession is left unaddressed. The gap between those that treat succession as a strategic priority and those that view
TurnkeyZRG Tapped by the Academy of Country Music for CEO Search
The Academy of Country Music (ACM) has retained TurnkeyZRG to lead in its search for a new CEO. Tom Truitt, Rich Tackenberg, Christopher Wingert, and Anne Johnson are leading the assignment. The Academy of Country Music seeks a visionary, results-driven leader to serve as its next CEO. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of one of
Wilton & Bain Expands People & Culture Practice
Wilton & Bain has appointed Claire Paramo as a partner in its people & culture practice. Claire will be based in the firm’s London headquarters. “I am delighted to welcome Claire to Wilton & Bain,” said Tim Baker, managing partner at Wilton & Bain. “Over recent months, I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know her and
Risk Mitigation and Business Complexity is Driving Demand in Legal Recruiting
Demand for senior legal leaders is rising as companies, and law firms face mounting regulatory complexity, global uncertainty, and shifting risks. Boards and CEOs now expect legal executives to be not only technical experts but also strategic business partners who can influence decisions, manage crises, and deliver commercial impact. The bar has never been higher
Onboarding Executives for Non-Traditional Roles
As organizations confront increasingly complex challenges, leadership requirements are evolving beyond traditional industry boundaries. Companies are beginning to recognize that experience alone may not be the best predictor of success in roles that demand fresh thinking and adaptability. In response, many are exploring talent from adjacent sectors to bring new perspectives and capabilities into critical
Occam Global Recruits CEO for Aura Biosciences
New York City-based executive search firm Occam Global has recruited Natalie Holles as CEO of NASDAQ-traded Aura Biosciences in Boston, MA. She succeeds Elisabet de los Pinos, the company’s founder, who stepped down from her roles as CEO and president and member of the board of directors on the same date. “We are delighted to welcome Natalie as CEO
Greenwood Asher & Associates Assists Murray State with Provost Search
Following a national search, Miramar Beach, FL-based executive recruitment firm Greenwood Asher & Associates has assisted in the recruitment of Paul Twigg as provost and vice president for academic affairs at Murray State. Jeremy Duff and Lois Stetson led the assignment. “I am excited to welcome Dr. Twigg to Murray State University as our next provost and vice president
Bespoke Partners Expands Go-To-Market Practice
San Diego, CA-headquartered Bespoke Partners has expanded with the addition of Alyssa Berardi as a partner in the go-to-market practice. “Alyssa’s combination of executive search experience and data-driven insight makes her an exceptional addition to the Bespoke team,” said Tess Fischer, partner and practice lead of Bespoke Partners’ go-to-market practice. “She brings a modern, data-informed perspective to go-to-market
Middle Market Momentum Meets a Talent Bottleneck
PitchBook’s latest report, 2025 Annual US PE Middle Market Report, highlights a market that is stabilizing but not yet fully normalized. Deal activity rebounded in 2025, with value rising 8.5 percent year-over-year to $410.7 billion across more than 4,000 transactions, supported by improving sentiment and a more accommodative financing environment. The recovery, however, is uneven. Deal sizes
Winning the Mandate in the New Era of Business Development
As competition intensifies across the executive search landscape, firms are rethinking how they originate and win new business. Success is increasingly tied to a more disciplined, insight-driven approach that goes beyond traditional networking and relationship management. In this environment, firms that combine data, technology, and market intelligence with strong client engagement are setting a new
Shelli Herman and Associates Tapped by OneOC for CEO Search
Los Angeles-based Shelli Herman and Associates has been retained by OneOC to lead in its search for a new president and CEO. OneOC seeks a talented individual provide forward-looking leadership and strategic direction, building on its successful foundation as a trusted partner to the non-profit sector across Orange County. Reporting to the board of directors, this
RH Perry & Associates Assists Macomb Community College with President Search
RH Perry & Associates has assisted in the recruitment of Lori M. Gonko as president of Macomb Community College. Senior consultants Gena Glickman and George Santiago led the assignment. “Dr. Gonko has demonstrated the skills, abilities, enthusiasm and vision to lead Macomb Community College well into the future,” said Katherine Bracey Lorenzo, chair of the board and of the
Russell Reynolds Associates Names Managing Partner for the U.K.
Global leadership advisory firm Russell Reynolds Associates recently appointed Tristan Jervis as managing partner for the U.K. Based in London, he works closely with some of the world’s largest multinational corporations and leading private equity firms to attract, assess, and develop high-impact technology executives. Mr. Jervis focuses on transformational leadership issues, ranging from the assessment and hiring
Why Job Offers Miss the Mark — and How to Bridge the Gap
You’ve worked through a complex hiring process, committed significant time, and identified the right candidate. The interviews were successful, and the team reached internal alignment. But when the offer is extended, the response is a polite “no, thank you.” If you’ve experienced it, you understand how frustrating that moment can be. After weeks of effort,
How Executive Search Firms Identify True Talent
In today’s competitive job market, relying solely on traditional resumes and standard hiring processes is no longer enough to identify the right talent for critical roles. Specialized search and selection firms play a pivotal role in revolutionizing talent acquisition by focusing on a deeper understanding of organizational needs and candidate potential, according to a report
The Moran Company Assists the American Counseling Association With CEO Search
The Moran Company, an executive recruitment firm that specializes in the non-profit sector, has placed Brian Banks as the new CEO of the American Counseling Association. Jon Rosell led the assignment. “We are thrilled to welcome Brian back to ACA,” said ACA governing council president M. Elsa Soto Leggett. “At a time when policy and
Cook Silverman Search Helps Recruit Executive Director for Welcoming Home
Greenbrae, CA-based Cook Silverman Search has assisted in the recruitment of Michael Cushing as the first executive director of Welcoming Home, marking a step in the organization’s growth and continued service to formerly homeless families in need across Marin and Sonoma counties. The organization’s founders, Marsha Roberts and Greg Hansen, will work closely with Mr. Cushing during
Caldwell Appoints Co-Leader of Technology Practice
Toronto-headquartered Caldwell has expanded the firm’s technology practice leadership team, naming Shawn Banerji to join Jim Bethmann as co-leader of the technology practice. “Under Jim’s leadership, Caldwell’s technology practice has built a strong global reputation advising companies across the tech industry,” said Chris Beck, CEO of Caldwell. “Artificial intelligence, data and digital transformation are reshaping competitive advantage
Companies Don’t Have a Talent Problem—They Have a Judgment Problem
As organizations scale, the difference between success and failure often comes down to the quality of decisions made around people, not just strategy. Leaders who consistently outperform tend to approach hiring, team development, and execution with greater discipline, clarity, and adaptability. After 15 years as a founder and CEO of venture-backed companies, John Levisay of
7 Tips to Ace Your Video Interview
Video interviews have become a standard component of executive hiring, offering organizations a more efficient way to engage senior candidates while maintaining momentum in competitive search processes. For C-suite and board-level roles, they are typically used as an early-stage tool to assess communication style, presence, and initial alignment before committing to in-person meetings. While they
BarkerGilmore Fills Senior Legal Post for Firefly Aerospace
Boutique search firm BarkerGilmore, which specializes in building corporate legal and compliance teams, has recruited Kristen Price as associate general counsel, commercial at Firefly Aerospace in Cedar Park, TX. “Firefly is at a defining stage as a newly public company, and Kristen joins at a pivotal moment as the company continues to scale its commercial capabilities
Myers McRae Assists the University of Montana Western with Chancellor Search
Kenny Daugherty of Macon, GA-based Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting has assisted in the recruitment of Estee Aiken as the next chancellor of the University of Montana Western (UMW). “Dr. Aiken’s broad and extensive experience as a teacher, administrator, and researcher as well as her demonstrated dedication to education at all levels, including teacher preparation, makes her an ideal
Kaye/Bassman Names Practice Leader for the South Division
Plano, TX-based executive search firm Kaye/Bassman International (KBIC), a Starfish Partners company, has named Ashley Richards as practice leader for the South division. “Ashley’s leadership, consistency, and track record of performance have made her one of the most respected partners within our organization. Her ability to build deep client relationships, while delivering exceptional talent solutions, has been instrumental to our
Human Capital Moves to the Center of Private Equity Value Creation
Private equity firms are placing increasing emphasis on leadership as a primary driver of value creation, reshaping how talent is evaluated and deployed across portfolio companies. The role of human capital has moved beyond support function status to become a central component of investment strategy and execution. As a result, firms are adopting more structured,
Appointing a Successor in a Family-Owned Business
Leadership transitions in founder-led businesses carry implications that extend far beyond operational continuity. Decisions around who will take the reins often shape not only the company’s trajectory, but also the dynamics within the family itself. Succession is one of the most personal decisions a founder will ever make, according to Warren Carter, senior managing partner
Waterford Global Leading CEO Search for Southern Health–Santé Sud
Winnipeg, Canada-based Waterford Global Inc. is currently leading the CEO search for Southern Health–Santé Sud (SH-SS). The search is nearing shortlist presentation stage. Working with an engaged board and leading a committed and experienced executive team, this is an opportunity to provide executive-level leadership as CEO of Southern Health-Santé Sud and to build upon a strong foundation
Furst Group Fills Top HR Post for Johns Hopkins Medicine
Executive search firm Furst Group, which serves the healthcare and insurance industries, has assisted in the recruitment of Enbar Cohen as its new vice president, human resources of Johns Hopkins Medicine. “We’re excited to welcome Enbar Cohen as our new vice president of human resources,” Johns Hopkins Medicine said in a LinkedIn post. “Enbar joins
