DAILY NEWSWIRE - TOP STORIES
Daily Newswire
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, Christine Pendleton, 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
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.
How Adaptive Governance Is Reshaping Leadership in Private Equity
Private equity firms have transformed how they create value, placing greater emphasis on operational execution, leadership effectiveness, and strategic oversight throughout the investment lifecycle. As a result, executive search firms are increasingly being called upon not only to recruit high-impact leaders and board directors, but also to identify executives capable of operating within governance models
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?
Why the Chief AI Officer Is Becoming a C-Suite Essential
Artificial intelligence is reshaping executive leadership, prompting organizations to rethink who should guide enterprise-wide AI strategy and oversee its responsible adoption. As companies move beyond experimentation to large-scale implementation, executive search firms are seeing growing demand for leaders who can combine technical expertise with business acumen, regulatory awareness, and the ability to drive transformation across
Yale University Taps Lindauer to Lead Vice President for Alumni Affairs and Development
Lindauer has been retained by Yale University to lead in its search for a vice president for alumni affairs and development. The search is being led by Lindauer CEO Deb Taft, executive vice president Faith Montgomery and senior consultant Andrew Machado. Yale University seeks an accomplished, visionary, and collaborative leader. Reporting directly to president Maurie McInnis and serving
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
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
Winning the CFO Talent War in a Competitive PE Market
Competition for experienced chief financial officers in private equity-backed companies has intensified as sponsors pursue growth, exits, and operational transformation on tighter timelines. In today’s candidate-driven environment, firms are finding that traditional recruiting approaches are no longer sufficient to secure high-impact finance leaders. Success increasingly hinges on proactive relationship-building, precise role calibration, and the ability
SearchWide Global Assists the International Association of Exhibitions and Events with CEO Search
Executive recruitment firm SearchWide Global has assisted in the recruitment of Marsha Flanagan as the new president and CEO of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE). She succeeds David DuBois, who left the association to take the role of president and CEO of Exhibitor Group last October. Executive vice president Mark Gnatovic led
Sheffield Haworth Partners with Progress Together
Global leadership advisory and executive search firm Sheffield Haworth has formed an alliance with Progress Together, an initiative focused on addressing the socio-economic disparity within the financial services sector. This strategic alliance comes in response to the recent study commissioned by Progress Together and conducted by Bridge Group called Shaping Our Economy, which highlighted socioeconomic background is more
CHRO’s Impact on CEO Succession Planning
The role of the chief human resources officer (CHRO) has become increasingly complex, with responsibilities ranging from navigating the “future of work” to addressing the implications of artificial intelligence. However, nowhere is the significance of the CHRO more evident than in CEO succession planning, where HR leaders can play a crucial, nuanced and pivotal role,
WittKieffer Tapped by Franklin Pierce University to Lead President Search
Oak Brook-IL-based WittKieffer has been selected by Franklin Pierce University in Rindge, NH, to lead its search for a new president. Current president Kim Mooney has announced she is retiring at the end of this academic year. Lucy Leske, Jeff Compher, and Kim Migoya are leading the assignment. “As the search process gets underway, the WittKieffer team will
DRiWaterstone Human Capital Seeking Major Gifts Officer for American Humane
For not-for-profit organizations, these are particularly challenging days. Declining support from government sources, increased demand for their services and competition for donor dollars are just a few of the issues that charitable groups must overcome to stay afloat each year. With COVID-19, donations are down even further. Simply put, major gift officers are top-level fundraisers.
Peña Search Finds New Leader for the Human Rights Initiative of North Texas
Peña Search has assisted in the recruitment of Shalaina Abioye as the new executive director of the Human Rights Initiative of North Texas (HRI). Bill Holston recently stepped down from his role after 11 years at the helm. Travis Hillier and Cindy Maloney led the assignment. Ms. Abioye joins HRI with more than a decade of experience leading immigrant-and-refugee-serving agencies.
Cowen Partners Launches Operating Partners Cohort
Vancouver, WA-based Cowen Partners Executive Search has launched its operating partners cohort. The group consists of six strategic executives who are available for consulting engagements and also provide support to new and existing executive search clients. Many of the executives in the cohort have leadership experience. “These strategic operating partners reinforce Cowen Partners’ commitment to providing
Hunt Scanlon’s Top 10 Recruiting Stories of 2023
For the recruiting industry, 2023 was a mixed bag. Recruiters continued to look for new ways to provide value to clients, AI remained a hot topic, and market consolidation led by investors continued to impact the industry. While fears of a recession, talent shortages, and candidate-driven market have been challenges for search consultants. Meanwhile, finding
Cook Silverman Search Retained to Find New Executive Director for the Eviction Defense Collaborative
Greenbrae, CA-based Cook Silverman Search was recently called by the Eviction Defense Collaborative (EDC) to lead in its search for a new executive director. Victoria L. Silverman, managing founder of the search firm, is leading the assignment. Eviction Defense Collaborative is seeking a remarkable civic leader who is passionate about social justice to serve as their
IIC Partners Adds New Member Firm in South Africa
IIC Partners Executive Search Worldwide has added Drayton Glendower in Johannesburg, South Africa as its newest member firm. “We are thrilled to welcome Drayton Glendower to IIC Partners,” said Christine Hayward, executive director of IIC Partners. “Their remarkable standing in South Africa and track record across sub–Saharan Africa enhance our global reach and introduce highly valued knowledge and
Hunt Scanlon’s Top 5 Recruiting Acquisitions of 2023
Acquisitions made huge news in the executive search industry this year, and for good reason. Outside investors finally caught on to the sector’s expansion potential and long growth runway ahead. Top search leaders also found ways to maximize profit. That made them highly attractive to private equity firms looking for platforms they could accelerate. Hunt Scanlon
TurningPoint Executive Search Fills HR Post for Hyundai Motor America
TurningPoint Executive Search has assisted in the recruitment of Kara Vande Hoef as director of human resources for Hyundai Motor America (HMA). “Kara’s professional journey to date speaks to her wealth of expertise across all HR functions,” said Raquel Gallant, TurningPoint’s managing director of executive search. “She has successfully developed and implemented HR programs, scaled operations, and
Buffkin / Baker Assists Princeton Theological Seminary with CFO Search
Following a comprehensive national search, partner-led executive search firm Buffkin / Baker assisted in the recruitment of Jean Hall as the new CFO of the Princeton Theological Seminary. Leading the assignment were Martin M. Baker, managing partner, and Pelema Ellis, associate partner. “Jean Hall’s appointment as chief financial officer represents a continuation of her excellent work to
Hunt Scanlon’s Top 10 Search Assignments for 2023
2023 was a challenging year for many sectors. But it was also a year when the best recruiting leaders stepped up their game. Across the board, from non-profits, universities, and even the royal family, to start-ups, the Fortune 500, and PE-backed companies, top leaders were in high demand to help guide organizations through formidable challenges
LHH Knightsbridge Assists Goodwill Industries, Ontario Great Lakes, with CEO Search
LHH Knightsbridge has assisted in the recruitment of Beverly Kobe as the new president and CEO of Goodwill Industries, Ontario Great Lakes. Partner Tara Veysey led the assignment. She succeeds Michelle Quintyn, who will remain with the organization for a period of time to ensure a smooth transition of her role and responsibilities. “This is an
True Appoints Head of Advisory, MENA & APAC
Global talent provider True has announced that Debu Mishra has joined True Search as head of advisory, MENA & APAC, and partner in the CEO/BOD practice, EMEA. “Debu is a student and teacher of leadership who offers clients more than just high caliber executive search,” said Sam McGrath, general manager, EMEA & APAC. “He has crafted a winning formula to help
Report Validates CEO and C-Suite Pay Disparities Grow with Company Size
In anticipation of the new year, a new report from ON Partners delves into major shifts impacting the business world, including average compensation rates by company size, geo-market hiring demand, and industry sectors experiencing the greatest shifts in talent management strategies. “This year’s report leverages transparency and data innovation, specifically as it relates to overall compensation
McCormack+Kristel Assists The Funders Network with CEO Search
Executive search firm McCormack+Kristel recently assisted in the placement of Dion Cartwright as the new president and CEO of The Funders Network in Coral Gables, FL. Managing partner Michelle Kristel led the assignment with search consultant Zaria Davis. “When TFN president and CEO Pat Smith announced her retirement this summer, we began the daunting but admittedly exciting
Caldwell Recruits Chief Legal Officer for the Alberta Investment Management Corporation
Toronto-based Caldwell has assisted in the recruitment of Shelley Nixon as chief legal officer of the Alberta Investment Management Corporation (AIMCo). The search was led by Les Gombik, Sameera Sereda, and Meaghan Loughry. “Shelley brings significant experience as a chief legal officer, leader and change agent to AIMCo,” said Evan Siddall, CEO of the Alberta Investment
Higher Education Leaders Join Academic Search’s Board
Education-focused executive recruiter Academic Search recently elected Berenecea Johnson Eanes as chair, Kathy Wilson Humphrey as vice chair, as well as Damián J. Fernández and Cynthia Teniente-Matson as new board members. “As we usher in these esteemed new members, we also bid farewell to accomplished colleagues who have dedicated years of service to advancing higher education through their
Kingsley Gate Expands Across North America, South America, Europe, and Asia Pacific
As it continues to expand its international footprint, private equity-backed Kingsley Gate has announced six new partner appointments in North America, South America, Europe and Asia Pacific as the firm continues to expand its international footprint. “We are excited that our vision is resonating and that we have the privilege of welcoming six new partners across four
The 5 Future Workplace Skills Everyone Needs
While people in the workforce have a wide range of unique technical abilities and behavioral competencies that can help them be successful in various roles, certain workplace skills may prove more valuable than others. A finance team member may never need coding skills, and a developer may never need financial modeling expertise. However, a new
Three Hills Makes Investment in Specialist Leadership Advisory & Analytics Firm LCap Group
Three Hills has made an investment in LCap Group, a specialist leadership advisory & analytics firm that focuses on high-growth companies and private equity-backed businesses, as well as supporting private credit and equity houses directly. Three Hills has invested £32.5 million to support LCap Group’s active M&A strategy, which will allow the business to continue
The Corning Museum of Glass and Docker Corp. Retain The Christopher Group for Top Searches
The Christopher Group (TCG), a boutique HR executive search and business solutions recruiting firm, has been retained by The Corning Museum of Glass and Docker Corp. to lead in searches for a chief people, culture, and belonging officer, and a head of people, respectively. “We are honored to partner with The Corning Museum of Glass in
CJPI Assists the British Airline Pilots’ Association with the Recruitment of New General Secretary
U.K.-based executive search firm CJPI has assisted in the recruitment of Amy Leversidge as the new general secretary of the British Airline Pilots’ Association (BALPA). She was nominated by the National Executive Council (NEC) after an extensive and exhaustive recruitment process. Ms. Leversidge, who will take up her post on January 8 will be the
Pearl Street Collective Recruits Chief Development Officer for Treehouse
Boston-based executive search firm Pearl Street Collective has assisted in the recruitment of Laura Perez Hamilton as chief development officer of Treehouse, a Seattle, WA-based non-profit focused on the specific educational needs of youth in foster care. Ms. Perez Hamilton brings over 20 years of advancement and development leadership including major gift fundraising experience to her
Kestria Appoints New President of the Executive Board; Elects New Board Members
Kestria, formerly known as IRC Global Executive Search Partners, has appointed Katerina Meimaroglou as president of the executive board. In addition, the consortium elected Japheth A. Worthy representing Kestria Japan: Apex. K.K., and Monicca Yan, managing director at Kestria China & Singapore: HR Partners as executive board members. They join Ms. Meimaroglou leading Kestria Greece: MEIHUNT, Michael Kantel, Kestria Germany:
HR Leaders and Diversity Chiefs Continue to Push for Inclusion
HR leaders and executive recruiters alike say that promoting diversity and belonging in the workplace is not just a buzzword. It’s a crucial aspect of modern businesses. Companies that foster diversity and belonging have been proven to have better financial performance, increased innovation, and a more engaged workforce. However, a recent report from The Christopher
Pender & Howe Executive Search Seeking CFO for St. John’s-Kilmarnock School
Toronto-based Pender & Howe Executive Search has been retained by St. John’s-Kilmarnock School to lead in its search for a new CFO. Managing partner Travis Hann is leading the assignment. This leader will play a crucial role in overseeing all financial aspects of the school, ensuring fiscal responsibility, sustainability, and strategic financial planning. As a seasoned
Krauthamer & Associates Recruits CFO for the Jacksonville Transportation Authority
Over the past year, a growing number of transportation companies have enlisted executive search firms to help them find senior talent. Executive recruiting firm Krauthamer & Associates has assisted in the recruitment of Raj Srinath as the new senior vice president and chief financial officer of the Jacksonville Transportation Authority. Mr. Srinath is a top-performing management professional
JM Search Launches Team Dedicated to Serving the Aviation, Aerospace & Defense Sector
JM Search has launched a dedicated team of recruiting experts focused on supporting the aviation, aerospace, and defense sector. In a sector that has experienced strong financial performance in recent years, JM Search has witnessed an increased demand from both investors and executives for key leaders within this sector. “JM Search has a significant track record
