Spencer Stuart, a global executive search and leadership advisory firm, has announced the election of Jordan Brugg as its next Managing Partner and Frank Birkel as its next Chair.
This leadership transition follows the completion of Ben Williams’ and David Daniel’s second terms as Managing Partner and Chair, respectively. The transition process was overseen by the firm’s Leadership Succession Committee. Brugg and Birkel will officially take on their new roles in late July, working closely with Williams and Daniel during the transition.
Jordan Brugg will become the firm’s tenth Managing Partner in its 68-year history. Since 2020, Brugg has served as the global head of Spencer Stuart’s Private Equity Business, where he has led significant growth and innovation. His tenure at Spencer Stuart spans 22 years, during which he has held various roles, including leading the North American Industrial Practice for seven years. Brugg has also been instrumental in developing new practices and service areas, such as CEO succession services.
“It’s an honor to be elected Spencer Stuart’s next Managing Partner, alongside the most talented and experienced colleagues in our profession,” said Brugg. “This is a transformational time, as the complexities of today’s world are having a profound effect on the role of leaders and leadership teams. I’m grateful and humbled to work with my colleagues to evolve our capabilities, expand on our role as a trusted advisor to clients and enhance our role in advising leaders who are navigating their most critical challenges and opportunities.”
Frank Birkel, who will assume the role of Chair, joined Spencer Stuart in 2007 as a member of the Consumer practice following leadership roles at Procter & Gamble and Wrigley. He has served on the Spencer Stuart Board for the past nine years, chairing the Board’s Compensation Committee. Birkel has also led the firm’s German business and co-led the EMEA region.
Ben Williams, who has led Spencer Stuart for six years, guided the firm through a period of significant challenge and growth. Under his leadership, the firm expanded its leadership advisory services, advanced its use of proprietary technologies, and attracted distinctive talent globally. Williams joined the firm in 2010 as a Consultant in the Financial Services Practice and later co-led Spencer Stuart’s North American region.
David Daniel, whose six-year term as Chair followed seven years of board service, has been with Spencer Stuart for 23 years. He previously served as Managing Partner for 11 years and joined the firm in 1994 as a Consultant in the Consumer Goods & Services Practice.
Spencer Stuart, founded in 1956, is known for helping organizations worldwide make critical senior-level leadership decisions. The firm operates over 70 offices in more than 30 countries, specializing in executive search, board recruitment, succession planning, and various aspects of organizational effectiveness.
