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Taurean Names VP in Value Creation Practice
Taurean recently appointed Abby Spare as vice president in the firm’s value creation practice. “This marks an important milestone for Taurean, fueling our mission to build distinct, enduring investment firms,” the firm said in a LinkedIn post. “Abby’s reputation for delivering an exceptional experience to clients and candidates is well-known, and her deep network across the
AI Moves from Hype to Workflow in Executive Search as Innova Launches Hands-On Summit
Artificial intelligence is rapidly moving from experimentation to execution within executive search, reshaping how firms approach everything from business development to candidate delivery. As expectations rise around speed, insight, and precision, search firms are under increasing pressure to rethink traditional workflows and identify where technology can meaningfully enhance performance rather than simply add complexity. Unlike
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.
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
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?
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.
Options Group Appoints VP in London
Options Group has named Henry Wilson as a vice president in London. He will specialize in the commodities trading technology sector. Over the past 12 years, Mr. Wilson has specialized in technology recruitment across commodities and capital markets, partnering with trading businesses to solve complex hiring challenges across front‑office, quantitative, and core trading technology functions. He previously spent over
Inside the AI Integration Gap: What Separates the Firms Moving Furthest
Executive search is off to a strong start in 2026. Americas revenue across the industry is tracking up approximately 10 to 11 percent, and a number of search firms are posting growth rates that would have been notable even in stronger markets. But beneath that headline, a different kind of divide is opening up —
The Most Overlooked Step in Hiring, and Why It Matters
In today’s hiring environment, organizations devote significant attention to attracting and securing top talent, yet many overlook the period immediately following offer acceptance. While the candidate may have formally agreed to join the company, important expectations, logistics, and verbal commitments often remain unresolved or undocumented. Recruiters say this overlooked stage can have a major impact
Bryant Group Fills Senior Post for the University of Oklahoma Foundation
Dallas-based executive search and talent development firm Bryant Group has assisted in the recruitment of Laura Ketchum as assistant vice president of advancement, OU Health Campus, at the University of Oklahoma Foundation. The search was led by Sarah Hempen, vice president of search. “Laura brings an extraordinary combination of campaign leadership, principal gift expertise and a proven ability to inspire high-performing
The Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority Retains Krauthamer & Associates for CEO Search
Krauthamer & Associates (K&A) has been retained by the Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority to lead in its search for a CEO. The search is expected to take several months. Interim CEO Brent Cagle will continue leading day-to-day operations in the meantime and has been encouraged to apply for the permanent role, according to the board. MPTA board
Six Steps to Sharpen Leadership Focus and Protect Performance in 2026
The start of a new year often tempts senior leaders to move straight from results to resolution, skipping the quieter work of reflection. Yet without pausing to examine how leadership is experienced—not just measured—patterns of strain, growth, and resilience remain invisible, quietly shaping the year ahead. What follows is a structured way to slow the
Focus Search Partners Expands
Executive search firm Focus Search Partners, a Vaco company, has appointed industrial executive search expert John Davidson as managing director. “Our ability to provide substantive recommendations, unparalleled service and unwavering support to our clients means having the right talent in-house,” said Paul Frankenberg, founder and managing partner at Focus Search Partners. “We are thrilled to
Recruiting Platform Nursa Secures $80 Million in Funding
Nursa, a per diem nursing recruiting platform, recently completed an $80 million series B funding round. The round was led by Drive Capital, a Columbus, OH-based venture capital firm. Joining the round were existing partners Pelion Venture Partners, a Salt Lake City, UT-based venture capital firm, and Kickstart Fund, a Cottonwood Heights, UT-based venture capital
A Look at How to Retain Top Leaders
Today’s independent senior executives have plenty of choice when it comes to selecting their work. In fact, in competitive, cutting-edge fields like innovation, data science, and supply chain strategy, competition for top independent talent is as fierce as it is for full-time hires, according to a recent Business Talent Group (BTG) report. Meanwhile, top professionals
Odgers Berndtson Leading CEO Search for Integrated and Specialist Medicine Clinical Group
Carmel Gibbons of executive search firm Odgers Berndtson is currently leading the CEO search for Integrated and Specialist Medicine Clinical Group, part of U.K.-based Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust. The right candidate will provide high quality and visible operational and strategic leadership and will have full responsibility for the effective delivery of Integrated and Specialist
Diversified Search Group Seeking CHRO for Davidson College
Koya Partners, a part of Diversified Search Group, was recently retained by Davidson College, Davidson, NC, to lead in its search for new chief human resources officer. Koya managing director Amy Sugin led the search along with senior associate Laura Bertonazzi. Davidson College seeks a collaborative and experienced leader to serve as the next CHRO.
The Tolan Group Recruits COO at Behavioral Health Solutions
The Tolan Group (TTG) recently assisted in the placement Brian Martin as the new chief operating officer at Behavioral Health Solutions. Managing partner Rachel Gauthier and Mallory Schmidt, senior search consultant, led the assignment. Mr. Martin brings over two decades of invaluable healthcare experience, a proven track record in leadership, and a commitment to driving excellence in healthcare services.
ON Partners Recruits President for Bold Group
ON Partners’ Andy Hickman recently placed Marcus Bring as the president of Bold Group, part of EverCommerce Security & Alarm Solutions. “We welcome Marcus’s leadership at this critical time of growth in the security industry. The industry is stronger than it has ever been and leads the way in the adoption of new technologies to further
Caldwell Posts 25.8 Percent Revenue Decline
Toronto-based Caldwell posted Q4 revenues of $21.9 million (Canadian), a 6.8 percent decrease from a year ago. For the full year, the firm reported revenues of 77.1 million, a decline of 25.8 percent from the prior year. “Fiscal 2023 was a challenging year,” said John Wallace, chief executive officer. “We are a talent acquisition services firm
How CHROs Can Steer the Ship to Success in 2024
What does it mean to lead with vision? That’s the question on our minds as we head into 2024, and you’ve probably thought about it, too. We talk so much about the importance of outstanding leadership, but we must remember the other piece of that puzzle: getting people ready to take on and succeed in
True Assists Yahoo with the Recruitment of Chief Communications Officer
Gail Tifford and Rachel Randolph of global talent provider True has assisted in the recruitment of Sona Iliffe-Moon as the new chief communications officer. “Sona has a proven track record in elevating influential brands, and we look forward to welcoming her to Yahoo at a pivotal inflection point in the company’s history,” said Jim Lanzone, CEO of
The University of Tennessee – Oak Ridge Innovation Institute Taps JDG Associates to Find New Leader
Rockville, MD-based executive search firm JDG Associates has been retained by the University of Tennessee – Oak Ridge Innovation Institute (UT-ORII) to find its next executive director and vice provost. This executive serves as the senior leader responsible for the oversight of the institute’s vision, management, and operations, as well as for the development, planning, and implementation
Kincannon & Reed Recruits President and COO for Clarkson Grain Company
Executive recruitment firm Kincannon & Reed, which exclusively focuses on food, agribusiness, and the related life sciences, recently placed Kevin Pray as the organization’s new president and chief operating officer of Clarkson Grain Company. The assignment was led by managing partner John Wright and managing director Carolyn Schubert. “A seasoned ag professional, Kevin’s strong background in both
Kestria Adds Reimaginum in Romania as its Newest Member Firm
Kestria, formerly known as IRC Global Executive Search Partners, has added Reimaginum as its newest member firm. Reimaginum is a Romanian boutique talent acquisition firm with over 45 years of collective expertise. While their recent focus has been on the technology sector, they also have market knowledge and experience in domains such as real estate,
Starfish Partners Acquires INNOVA People
Starfish Partners, an investment and ownership platform for niched professional and mid-to-upper management search specialists, has acquired INNOVA People, a Bend, OR-based firm that works across North America recruiting talent in the healthcare and technology industries. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. “Joel is one of those rare combinations of superior capabilities and
Hanold Associates Recruits CHRO for Nordstrom
Hanold Associates HR & Diversity Executive Search has assisted in the recruitment of Lisa Price as chief human resources officer of Nordstrom, Inc. in Seattle, WA. “With nearly three decades of experience driving and creating culture for large global organizations and previous experience working at Nordstrom, Lisa understands that the success of our business starts with our people,” said Erik Nordstrom,
Shelli Herman and Associates Recruits CEO for the Dallas Zoo
Following a comprehensive national search for a new leader for the organization, Los Angeles-based Shelli Herman and Associates has placed Lisa New as the new CEO of the Dallas Zoo. She will be the Zoo’s first female CEO in its 135-year history. Ms. New succeeds someone she often has recognized as one of her mentors, Gregg Hudson,
Aya Healthcare Acquires Winnow AI
Aya Healthcare, a healthcare recruiting provider, has acquired Winnow AI, which uses artificial intelligence to match physicians with open roles. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. Winnow AI was created by SwitchPoint Ventures, a venture studio that builds AI-driven business solutions for the challenges of healthcare. “Winnow AI offers a more targeted approach
EY Survey Reveals Enthusiasm For AI Will Drive M&A Frenzy
According to new survey data from EY, CEOs in the United States are riding a wave of optimism when it comes to revenue, profits, transactions, and the potential of generative AI. Survey data published this past month reveals that business leaders are confidently steering their organizations towards profitability, even as economic concerns loom. While AI
Egon Zehnder Selected by BP to Find New CEO
Leadership advisory firm Egon Zehnder has been called in by BP to lead in its for a new CEO, according to Sky News. Its search is expected to encompass external candidates as well as internal candidates, including the interim chief executive Murray Auchincloss. According to Sky insiders, Mr. Auchincloss, who was previously BP’s finance chief, has
Buffkin / Baker Recruits Director of Athletics for Middle Georgia State University
Partner-led executive search firm Buffkin / Baker has placed Michael Brown as the director of athletics for Middle Georgia State University (MGA) in Macon. Partner Kenn Carrick and principal Janny DeLoache led the assignment. “The goal of transition to NCAA Division II is to provide student-athletes with enhanced opportunities for competition, as well as greater access to
Direct Recruiters Inc. Appoints Practice Leader
Direct Recruiters Inc. (DRI) has named Christian Byrd as practice leader, medical device, overseeing operations in North America and the Asia Pacific region. Mr. Christian will partner with medical device clients across various functions, including commercial, medical, clinical, R&D, regulatory, quality and safety to provide customized recruitment solutions. “We are thrilled to welcome Christian to the DRI
Hudson Global RPO Appoints CEO
Hudson RPO, a global total talent solutions company owned by Old Greenwich, Conn.-based recruiting firm Hudson Global Inc., has named Jacob Zabkowicz as global chief executive officer. “I am excited to welcome Jake to the Hudson RPO team,” said Jeff Eberwein, CEO of Hudson Global. “Jake’s growth orientation and winning mindset will help Hudson RPO achieve its aggressive growth goals. Over the
How Private Equity Outfits are Keeping Recruiters Busy
Attracting and retaining top talent is a challenge given the specialized skills and experience required to be successful in a private equity-backed portfolio company. When seeking potential talent for leadership positions, PE firms are laser-focused on finding specific domains and industry expertise to fit the unique culture and environment of their investments, according to Rob
Caldwell Recruits CISO for West Fraser
Increasingly, organizations of all sizes are awakening to the perils posed by cyberattacks. For years, many groups tried to ignore the problem, dismissing cybersecurity as a concern only for the biggest, most high-profile entities, be they government or corporate. These days, more groups are coming to understand how ruinous such intrusions could be. This has led
Massey Henry Seeking CFO/CRO for SaskCentral
Toronto-based executive search firm Massey Henry was recently retained by SaskCentral to lead in its search for a chief risk officer and chief financial officer. Reporting to the CEO, this executive ensures the financial and operational viability of SaskCentral, leading and supporting the strategic vision and development of high-level corporate business objectives at the board and
Harris Search Associates Recruits Founding Dean for Xavier University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine
Following an extensive national search that included a highly competitive candidate pool from across the country, Harris Search Associates has placed Steven Halm as founding Dean of the Xavier University proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine, which slated to become the nation’s first Jesuit osteopathic medicine school opening its doors to students in 2027. “Xavier is gaining a
NPAworldwide Adds 13 Member Firms in the U.S.
Member-owned recruitment network NPAworldwide has added 13 new member locations in the U.S. “Congratulations to each of our new member firms,” said Dave Nerz, president of NPAworldwide. “By joining our recruiting network, these firms are invested as owners. Our continued membership growth allows independent recruitment firms to more effectively serve their clients and candidates by
Arts Consulting Group Tapped by the Bruce to Lead COO Search
Boston-based search firm Arts Consulting Group (ACG) has been retained by the Bruce Museum (the Bruce) in Greenwich, Conn, to lead in its search for a new chief operating officer. Wyona Lynch-McWhite, senior vice president, and Josyanne Roche, vice president, are leading the assignment for the search firm. The COO, in partnership with the executive director and CEO,
5 Top Skills for Human Resources Leaders Today
Human resources leadership continues to plays an important role in shaping an organization’s success by effectively managing its most valuable asset – its people. As the HR landscape continues to evolve, HR leaders must equip themselves with essential skills that go beyond traditional administrative tasks. In this article, The Christopher Group explores five essential skills
ON Partners Recruits CEO for MacStadium
Co-president Matt Mooney and partner Jake Espenlaub of ON Partners have recruited Kenneth Tacelli as the new president and CEO of MacStadium, an Atlanta-based Mac cloud provider. He succeeds co-founder Gregory McGraw, who has transitioned to executive chair of the MacStadium board of directors. Mr. McGraw recently announced his retirement after a 12 year tenure building and leading the company. “We are thrilled
Bannerot Partners Assists Remington Hospitality with CHRO Search
CHROs have become critical stakeholders in defining the strategy of a company. Their job description calls for them to tackle the HR challenges and evolving expectations of a dynamic workplace environment that will consist of constant change, calculated risk-taking, and evolving expectations from top stakeholders. Those well-equipped to achieve the greatest success will have diverse skill-sets,
