CFR Global Executive Search is an alliance of independent executive search companies that combine to create one of the world’s most robust recruiting networks — helping members serve clients globally. 

PIXCELL is the exclusive partner of CFR Global Executive Search in Canada and hosted this year’s CFR Montreal 2024 event. This annual gathering attracted 40 top professionals in executive recruiting from 17 countries to discuss industry trends and deepen relationships.

The conference started with a Board of Directors meeting and a reception hosted by PIXCELL and François Piché-Roy, Founder, President, and Managing Partner of PIXCELL, followed by two days of collective learning and discussions about executive search. 

Governance in Family Organizations

Of particular note was a broad-ranging discussion on the importance of good governance in private and family organizations. This discussion focused on investors, family members, and management committees that have a seat at the table of private and family organizations. 

CFR members got an insight into governance frameworks for such companies, how boards are using AI to make data-driven decisions, and how high-growth and tech companies are making decisions.

Panelists included:

• Marie-Eve Prevost, a tech entrepreneur and Board Member at Cycle Momentum
• Tuan Tran, Senior Director, Investment – Private Equity at Desjardins Capital
• Guillaume Felx, Partner Growth Equity at BDC (Business Development Bank of Canada)
• Alexis Iche, Investment Banker and M&A Partner at Oaklins E. Canada

New CEO at CFR Global Executive Search

At the conference, we announced the new CFR Global Executive Search CEO Willem Hein. Mr. Hein is also the CEO of Beljon Westerterp, the premier executive search firm located in the Netherlands. 

We also said thank you to the outgoing CEO, Rašo Pazarkić, General Manager of HCS Executive Search in Serbia for his leadership.

Other activities included:

• A visit to Lallemand, an international yeast producer with more than 5,000 employees globally. This included a plant tour and discussion with a third-generation CEO,
• The Aura Experience, a light and music show from Moment Factory.

Bringing together some of the world’s top leaders in executive search ensures members stay on top of emerging trends while making connections that can be invaluable for global recruitment searches. These organizations have deep insight into their respective markets, which helps CFR members understand the unique challenges of executive recruitment on a global scale. When searches are international, this insight can help uncover top-tier candidates.