Focus Search Partners Strengthens Interim Leadership Practice
In a strategic move to expand its interim leadership capabilities, Focus Search Partners, a company under the Vaco umbrella, has recently appointed two seasoned professionals, Barbara Haith and Matthew Zoltowski, to its leadership team. This expansion is designed to enhance the firm’s ability to provide businesses with experienced interim executives capable of navigating complex challenges in today’s ever-changing market landscape.
The Need for Flexible Leadership
As organizations grapple with the realities of a rapidly evolving gig economy, the demand for flexible, interim executive solutions has surged. Businesses are increasingly realizing that the traditional approach to hiring full-time executives may not cater to their immediate and dynamic needs. Interim leaders, equipped with specialized skills and extensive experience, offer a viable solution by stepping into leadership voids without long-term commitments.
Insights from Leadership
Paul Frankenberg, the Founder and Managing Partner of Focus Search Partners, highlighted the significance of this strategic hire. He stated, "Executive-level staffing has rapidly emerged as a key solution in today's evolving Gig Economy 2.0. As businesses continue to navigate shifting markets, the flexibility and expertise offered by interim leaders is invaluable."
The addition of Barbara and Matthew marks a pivotal moment for the interim leadership practice, aimed at providing organizations with access to top-tier talent for critical projects while also driving innovation and reducing costs.
Profiles of the New Leaders
Barbara Haith
Bringing over 30 years of experience in business development and strategic interim solutions, Barbara Haith joins as Senior Managing Director. Her extensive background includes sourcing highly experienced leaders across diverse industries, particularly focusing on manufacturing and consumer products. Previously with Korn Ferry, Barbara specialized in interim solutions, optimizing operations, and enhancing productivity. Her mission at Focus Search Partners is clear: to fuel the growth of middle-market organizations during times of transition.
Barbara expressed her enthusiasm by stating, "I'm thrilled to join Focus Search Partners and contribute to our mission of helping businesses thrive, particularly during times of transition. Our focus is on providing the right interim talent to support key initiatives."
Matthew Zoltowski
Joining as Managing Director, Matthew Zoltowski brings with him over 20 years of experience in professional services and organizational development. Prior to this role, Matthew held leadership positions at Business Talent Group and TEKsystems, focusing on strategic workforce planning. At Focus Search Partners, Matthew’s consultative approach aims to connect organizations with exceptional interim talent that drives meaningful change and accelerates growth.
Matthew remarked on the changing professional landscape, stating, "With business needs rapidly evolving, it's an exciting time to join Focus Search Partners. Professionals are increasingly looking to engage in complex projects rather than traditional, clock-punching roles."
Comprehensive Leadership Solutions
Focus Search Partners’ Interim Leadership practice encompasses a wide range of leadership positions, including C-suite executives and interim board members. The comprehensive team, led by Barbara and Matthew alongside existing members like Monica Foster and Teresa Hansen, is prepared to meet the diverse needs of various industries, including healthcare, technology, and private equity.
By consolidating talent across key leadership roles, the firm aims to assist client companies in navigating complex challenges and driving business growth with agility and precision.
About Focus Search Partners
Founded in 2001, Focus Search Partners has steadily established itself as a leader in retained search and interim leadership solutions. With a strong emphasis on building effective teams, the firm serves businesses by providing top-tier recruiting services for executives and senior-level personnel. Acquired by Vaco in 2014, the firm has grown to include over 45 employees and 19 partners across the United States and beyond, maintaining a commitment to helping organizations achieve their goals through strategic leadership placement.
For additional information about their services, visit
focussearchpartners.com.