Witt/Kieffer Expands Executive Team

June 13, 2011 – Executive search firm Witt/Kieffer has named Jena E. Abernathy, former chief administrative officer of Premier, Inc., as vice president. Based in the firm's Atlanta office, Mr. Abernathy's national practice will include recruiting board members, CEOs, COOs, CFOs, CHROs and other senior leaders for hospitals, health systems, academic medical centers and not-for-profit organizations, as well as life sciences, manufacturing, distribution and other healthcare corporations. She has more than 25 years of human capital management experience working with healthcare providers, suppliers, life sciences companies and venture capital start-ups. "Jena's extensive background in both the healthcare provider and supplier worlds gives her a comprehensive perspective across the healthcare industry," said Jim Gauss, president and CEO. "Her business acumen and strategic planning skills make her ideally suited to help clients navigate leadership transitions, rapid growth and dramatic changes in healthcare delivery, supply chain management and bio-tech developments." Witt/Kieffer assists colleges, universities, national educational associations, foundations, cultural organizations, human service and advocacy organizations, private secondary schools and other not-for-profit organizations with senior administrative search engagements.