Spencer Stuart Enhances Board Advisory Practice in North America with New Leadership
Spencer Stuart, a global leader in executive search and leadership advisory, has made a significant move to enhance its North America Board Advisory Practice. On September 2, 2025, the firm announced the return of Rebecca Thornton to the New York office, where she will co-lead the practice alongside George Anderson, who operates from Spencer Stuart's Boston office. This strategic appointment comes at a critical time when corporate boards face unprecedented challenges in governance and organizational effectiveness.
Rebecca Thornton brings with her an impressive 25 years of experience in the field, having advised CEOs and board members on various aspects such as board recruitment, design, composition, CEO succession, and shareholder engagement. Her expertise in corporate governance is widely recognized; she has been included in the National Association of Corporate Directors' (NACD) Directorship 100 list, which highlights influential figures in the field.
George Anderson, the other co-leader, has also established a stellar reputation in advising boards and conducting director search services. Previously, he led Spencer Stuart's Board Effectiveness service line and has been named multiple times to the NACD's Directorship 100 list. Anderson's significant contributions to governance have earned him the Lou Rieger Quality Award from Spencer Stuart, recognizing his outstanding client service. He regularly participates in major governance forums and facilitates the development of directors through Spencer Stuart's New Director Program.
Welcoming Thornton back, Spencer Stuart's CEO, Jordan Brugg, expressed enthusiasm about her leadership in navigating the changing landscape of corporate governance. "We are thrilled to welcome Rebecca back to Spencer Stuart, and for her and George to lead our Board Advisory practice in North America, at a time when boards are navigating considerable change and transformation," Brugg stated. "Their combined experience will undoubtably drive value for our clients."
Rebecca Thornton expressed her excitement upon her return, emphasizing the increasing expectations surrounding corporate governance. "I look forward to partnering with George and the team to help companies enhance their own performance to drive sustainable value creation amid the changing corporate landscape,” said Thornton.
Prior to her return to Spencer Stuart, Thornton was the head of Director Advisory Services at J.P. Morgan for seven years, a role that positioned her as a key resource for corporate clients. Her initial stint at Spencer Stuart spanned nine years, where she focused on director recruitment across multiple industries. Thornton holds a B.A. with honors from Colby College, underscoring her commitment to education and professional development.
Anderson, who previously worked at Tapestry Networks and Accenture, holds a Master’s degree in Human Development and Psychology from Harvard Graduate School of Education and a B.A. in Philosophy from Haverford College. His background equips him with the skills necessary to address the complexities boards face today.
In a world characterized by macroeconomic volatility and technological disruption, Anderson recognizes the importance of effective governance. "From macroeconomic volatility to technological disruption, boards are facing unprecedented challenges, and I am honored to work with Rebecca and the practice to help boards lift their performance in an increasingly complex world," he noted.
About Spencer Stuart: Founded in 1956 and privately held, Spencer Stuart focuses on delivering expert insight and results through a collaborative team spanning over 60 offices across more than 30 countries. The firm is dedicated to addressing the evolving leadership needs of boards and leaders in various domains, including board recruitment, executive search, succession planning, and organizational effectiveness. To learn more about Spencer Stuart, visit their website at www.spencerstuart.com.
Rebecca Thornton brings with her an impressive 25 years of experience in the field, having advised CEOs and board members on various aspects such as board recruitment, design, composition, CEO succession, and shareholder engagement. Her expertise in corporate governance is widely recognized; she has been included in the National Association of Corporate Directors' (NACD) Directorship 100 list, which highlights influential figures in the field.
George Anderson, the other co-leader, has also established a stellar reputation in advising boards and conducting director search services. Previously, he led Spencer Stuart's Board Effectiveness service line and has been named multiple times to the NACD's Directorship 100 list. Anderson's significant contributions to governance have earned him the Lou Rieger Quality Award from Spencer Stuart, recognizing his outstanding client service. He regularly participates in major governance forums and facilitates the development of directors through Spencer Stuart's New Director Program.
Welcoming Thornton back, Spencer Stuart's CEO, Jordan Brugg, expressed enthusiasm about her leadership in navigating the changing landscape of corporate governance. "We are thrilled to welcome Rebecca back to Spencer Stuart, and for her and George to lead our Board Advisory practice in North America, at a time when boards are navigating considerable change and transformation," Brugg stated. "Their combined experience will undoubtably drive value for our clients."
Rebecca Thornton expressed her excitement upon her return, emphasizing the increasing expectations surrounding corporate governance. "I look forward to partnering with George and the team to help companies enhance their own performance to drive sustainable value creation amid the changing corporate landscape,” said Thornton.
Prior to her return to Spencer Stuart, Thornton was the head of Director Advisory Services at J.P. Morgan for seven years, a role that positioned her as a key resource for corporate clients. Her initial stint at Spencer Stuart spanned nine years, where she focused on director recruitment across multiple industries. Thornton holds a B.A. with honors from Colby College, underscoring her commitment to education and professional development.
Anderson, who previously worked at Tapestry Networks and Accenture, holds a Master’s degree in Human Development and Psychology from Harvard Graduate School of Education and a B.A. in Philosophy from Haverford College. His background equips him with the skills necessary to address the complexities boards face today.
In a world characterized by macroeconomic volatility and technological disruption, Anderson recognizes the importance of effective governance. "From macroeconomic volatility to technological disruption, boards are facing unprecedented challenges, and I am honored to work with Rebecca and the practice to help boards lift their performance in an increasingly complex world," he noted.
About Spencer Stuart: Founded in 1956 and privately held, Spencer Stuart focuses on delivering expert insight and results through a collaborative team spanning over 60 offices across more than 30 countries. The firm is dedicated to addressing the evolving leadership needs of boards and leaders in various domains, including board recruitment, executive search, succession planning, and organizational effectiveness. To learn more about Spencer Stuart, visit their website at www.spencerstuart.com.
Topics Business Technology）
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