Hesters takes over the reins from Trina Gordon, who retires after 12 years as CEO, three years as chair, and more than 30 years as a managing partner in the firm. Boyden has more than 70 offices in over 45 countries.

Previously a managing partner at executive search firm Korn Ferry, where he was also a senior client partner in the global industrial practice, he has more than 15 years’ experience in executive search and organisational consulting. Before executive search, Hesters held corporate finance roles at Hunt Oil and Shell following his early career as an intelligence officer with the US Navy. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University and an MBA from the University of Colorado.

Craig Stevens, Boyden chair, said Hesters “has worked in over 20 countries and brings a comprehensive track record leading a complex leadership advisory business”, and added: “I would like to pay tribute to Trina Gordon for her inspirational, values-driven leadership. As the first female CEO of a global executive search firm, Trina blazed the way for women leaders in our industry… The board of directors thanks her for her exceptional performance and unwavering dedication to the partnership.”

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