We’re pleased to announce three completed executive searches for Quanex Building Products Corporation (NYSE:NX).
Managing Director John Mann worked closely with Quanex leadership to identify top-tier talent for the following strategic roles: Chief Accounting Officer, Vice President of Audit, and Vice President of Tax.
Gabriela Garcia was appointed Chief Accounting Officer, Janis Thiedemann was named Vice President of Internal Audit, and Jennifer Roycroft was announced as Vice President of Global Tax.
Quanex is a global, publicly traded manufacturing company serving commercial and residential OEMs in the fenestration (windows and doors), hardware, cabinetry, solar, refrigeration, security, and outdoor products market
These searches were conducted to build a cohesive finance leadership team. We evaluated each executive on technical depth, leadership acumen, their ability to assimilate into Quanex’s existing leadership team, and their ability to work with one another across finance, tax, and audit.
The result is a leadership team with complementary skills and aligned perspectives, built to deliver lasting value for Quanex.
“Organizations work best when leaders work well together. We focus on fit and how leaders make decisions, so each hire strengthens the team and the business,” said John Mann, Managing Director, The Alexander Group.
Reed Smith LLP enhances global client engagement with the appointment of Gillian Ward.
Client: Reed Smith LLP | Role: Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer | Candidate: Gillian Ward
Search Consultants: Amanda K. Brady, Sarah Mitchell, Pam DeLuca
Overview
Reed Smith LLP, a dynamic international law firm with over 1,700 attorneys across 30 offices worldwide, partnered with The Alexander Group to identify a strategic leader for the Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer role. The firm sought an executive capable of unifying its global marketing and business development strategies to support continued growth and integration.
Key Leadership Need
The firm required a seasoned professional to align marketing, client development, and operational initiatives across its global platform. The ideal candidate needed extensive experience building integrated strategies across jurisdictions, supporting firm-wide growth, and serving as a key executive partner to the firm’s leadership.
Developed a tailored search strategy aligned with Reed Smith’s vision for worldwide integration and client-centric growth
Identified senior leaders experienced in marketing transformation and operational execution across multiple geographies
Assessed candidates for executive presence, strategic capability, and alignment with firm leadership
Successful Placement and Impact
“Gillian is a key strategic hire for our firm as we focus on growing client relationships and expanding our presence in new and existing markets.
– Nick Bagiatis, Chief Operating Officer, Reed Smith LLP
Gillian Ward, formerly the Global Chief Marketing Officer at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP (US), was appointed Reed Smith’s Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer. She previously held senior leadership roles at Baker Botts LLP and brings extensive expertise in market development, client growth programs, and strategy formulation.
Immediate benefits:
Unified Global Marketing Strategy: Gillian will oversee the integration of marketing and business development functions across Reed Smith’s 30 international offices.
Strategic Growth Leadership: She brings a data-driven, client-focused approach to marketing that supports Reed Smith’s continued platform expansion.
Executive Collaboration: As a key partner to the firm’s leadership, Gillian will contribute directly to high-level strategy and decision-making.
Insights from the Executive Search Team
“Gillian brings broad experience helping global law firms design and integrate marketing and business development initiatives across practices and continents, ensuring a comprehensive and holistic approach to support growth. She will be a key member of Reed Smith’s executive team and the ideal partner to Chair Casey Ryan and COO Nick Bagiatis as they lead the firm through continued strategic growth of its global platform.”
— Amanda K. Brady, Managing Director and Chief Client Officer, The Alexander Group
About Reed Smith LLP
Reed Smith LLP is a global law firm known for its deep industry knowledge, collaborative culture, and innovative approach to legal service delivery. With offices in the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, the firm advises leading businesses on complex litigation, regulatory matters, and high-stakes transactions. Reed Smith is recognized for forging long-term client relationships and delivering forward-thinking legal solutions that support business growth.
About The Alexander Group
Specializing in executive search for law firms and financial leadership roles, The Alexander Group delivers strategic, results-driven placements tailored to each client’s needs.Interested in learning more about our executive recruitment services? Contact The Alexander Group today.
Hecker Fink LLP enhances its operational leadership with the appointment of Aurelie Binisti.
Client: Hecker Fink LLP | Role: Human Resources Director | Candidate: Aurelie Binisti
Search Consultant: Sarah Mitchell
Overview
Hecker Fink LLP, a premier litigation boutique known for its high-stakes legal work and commitment to public interest, partnered with The Alexander Group to identify a Human Resources Director. The firm sought a strategic leader to oversee and enhance its human resources functions, supporting its continued growth and dynamic work environment.
Key Leadership Need
As Hecker Fink LLP expanded its team of elite litigators and staff, the firm required a human resources executive capable of managing complex HR operations, fostering a collaborative culture, and aligning HR strategies with the firm’s mission of delivering exceptional legal services and advocacy.
The Alexander Group’s Approach
Director Sarah Mitchell led the search, focusing on candidates with extensive experience in human resources leadership across diverse industries. The search emphasized finding a professional with the adaptability and emotional intelligence to thrive in Hecker Fink’s fast-paced and mission-driven environment.
Developed a tailored search strategy aligned with Hecker Fink’s organizational goals and culture.
Identified candidates with a proven track record in strategic and operational HR management.
Assessed candidates for cultural fit, leadership capabilities, and the ability to contribute to the firm’s continued success.
Successful Placement and Impact
Aurelie Binisti, a seasoned human resources professional with over 15 years of experience in media and financial services, was appointed as Hecker Fink LLP’s Human Resources Director. Prior to joining the firm, she served as Executive Director of Human Resources at OMD for Omnicom. Aurelie holds a master’s degree in human resources from SUP RH in Paris, France.
Immediate benefits:
Strategic HR Leadership: Aurelie brings a wealth of experience in developing and implementing HR strategies that support organizational objectives.
Operational Excellence: Her background ensures efficient management of HR operations, contributing to the firm’s overall performance.
Cultural Alignment: Aurelie’s interpersonal skills and adaptability make her well-suited to foster the firm’s collaborative and high-achieving culture.
Insights from the Executive Search Consultant
“Aurelie combines the right mix of functional skills with high emotional intelligence and adaptability to lead and thrive within this growing, dynamic environment.”
— Sarah Mitchell, Director, The Alexander Group
About Hecker Fink LLP
Hecker Fink LLP is a formidable litigation boutique specializing in high-stakes legal matters, including white-collar criminal defense, complex appellate litigation, and public interest cases. The firm is dedicated to achieving the best possible results for clients through fierce advocacy, creative strategies, and forward-looking advice.
About The Alexander Group
Specializing in executive search for law firms and financial leadership roles, The Alexander Group delivers strategic, results-driven placements tailored to each client’s unique needs.Interested in learning more about our executive recruitment services? Contact The Alexander Group today.
Tony Capecci has joined Haynes and Boone, LLP as Director of Practice Innovation.
Mr. Capecci is an experienced legal technology leader with two decades of experience in legal technology and more than a decade of experience spearheading the procurement, development, and implementation of legal systems in fast-paced environments.
Prior to joining Haynes & Boone, Mr. Capecci was Associate Director, Litigation & Practice Delivery at Kirkland & Ellis. Mr. Capecci received a Bachelor of Arts in Interactive Multimedia from Columbia College Chicago.
“Tony has a deep understanding of the technology needs of a practicing lawyer, coupled with the leadership, intellectual curiosity, and passion for innovation needed to succeed in this role,” saidMitchell.
Haynes and Boone, LLP is a highly respected American Lawyer top 100 law firm, with more than 600 lawyers and 425 non-lawyer employees in 18 domestic and three international offices, and over 40 major practices.
The firm has grown from a two-person firm in 1970 to a global leader through its client-first focus, which informs its decisions and processes, and the collaborative nature of its people, which makes the work environment healthy and pleasant.
The firm’s culture focuses on teamwork, an environment of mutual respect, and a long-term view that supports investing in the future.
Global law firm Morrison & Foerster enhances operational leadership with the appointment of Brian Gross as Chief Operating Officer.
Morrison & Foerster LLP (MoFo), a premier global law firm recognized for its work in technology, life sciences, finance, and litigation, partnered with The Alexander Group, a global executive search firm, to recruit a Chief Operating Officer (COO). As Morrison & Foerster continues to scale its international operations and deliver innovation-driven client service, the firm sought an experienced leader to optimize its business functions, drive operational excellence, and support long-term strategic growth.
Key Leadership Need
The firm required a Chief Operating Officer who could oversee the firm’s operational, financial, administrative, and marketing functions on a firmwide basis. The ideal candidate would enhance collaboration across practice groups and business services, strengthen internal systems, and align firm operations with Morrison & Foerster’s global growth strategy while maintaining its culture of innovation and service excellence.
The Alexander Group’s Approach
Managing Director John Lamar and Director Sarah Mitchell led a targeted executive search, focused on identifying operational leaders from top-tier law firms and professional services organizations.
Key priorities included:
Proven leadership across finance, HR, IT, marketing, and administrative operations
Expertise in driving business growth, operational transformation, and strategic initiatives
Success leading cross-functional teams and fostering collaborative, high-performance cultures
Brian Gross was selected for his strategic leadership at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where he served as COO for North America and Managing Director and Partner, as well as for his proven ability to build high-performing teams and operationalize firm-wide growth strategies.
Successful Placement and Impact
Brian Gross joined Morrison & Foerster LLP as Chief Operating Officer. With over two decades of leadership experience across professional services, including BCG and prior business development and recruiting leadership roles, Brian now leads MoFo’s financial, operational, marketing, and administrative functions globally.
Immediate Impact:
Strengthening alignment of business operations with firmwide strategic initiatives
Optimizing internal processes to support cross-office collaboration and client service delivery
Building operational teams and infrastructure to sustain long-term growth and innovation
Insights from the Recruiters
“Brian’s extensive experience as a senior operations executive, his demonstrated ability to build and lead teams, and his strong strategic skills will serve Morrison Foerster well as the firm continues to expand its global platform.”
— John Lamar, Managing Director, and Sarah Mitchell, Director, The Alexander Group
About Morrison & Foerster LLP
Morrison & Foerster LLP is a leading global law firm with more than 1,000 attorneys across 17 offices worldwide. The firm is widely recognized for its innovation, diversity, and outstanding client service across sectors including technology, life sciences, finance, and litigation.
About The Alexander Group
The Alexander Group is a global executive search firm and an executive search firm in Houston. The firm serves industries including legal services, life sciences, healthcare, financial services, energy, technology, consumer goods, and nonprofit organizations, delivering strategic, results-driven leadership placements tailored to each client’s needs.
Wiley Rein LLP, a nationally recognized law firm renowned for its expertise in regulatory, litigation, and government affairs, has partnered with The Alexander Group, a global executive search firm, to recruit a Chief Financial Officer (CFO). As the firm continued to expand its national footprint and practice capabilities, it required a seasoned financial leader to optimize financial operations, implement scalable processes, and drive data-informed decision-making.
Key Leadership Need
The firm needed a CFO who could oversee all financial functions, including budgeting, financial reporting, forecasting, client funds management, billing and collections, and audit oversight. Wiley sought a leader capable of strengthening financial performance, modernizing internal accounting systems, and supporting strategic growth initiatives across multiple practice groups.
The Alexander Group’s Approach
The Alexander Group conducted a targeted national search for finance executives with deep expertise in professional services operations, particularly within the legal sector.
Search strategy highlights:
Identified CFOs experienced in budgeting, projections, client pricing models, and audit oversight
Prioritized candidates with a strong background in law firm accounting systems and financial reporting
Emphasized leadership skills in managing financial teams and driving operational improvements
Brad Bonneau emerged as the top candidate based on his extensive financial leadership experience at Chapman and Cutler LLP, where he served as CFO, and his proven ability to modernize finance functions while mentoring and developing professional accounting teams.
Successful Placement and Impact
Brad Bonneau joined Wiley Rein LLP as Chief Financial Officer. He brings over two decades of financial leadership experience in the legal sector, including financial planning and analysis, budgeting, client fund management, tax compliance, and optimization of accounting systems.
Immediate Impact:
Initiated upgrades to financial reporting and internal accounting processes
Strengthened budgeting and forecasting accuracy across the firm
Developed streamlined models for client billing and alternative pricing strategies
Enhanced collaboration between finance and practice leadership teams
Insights from the Recruiters
“Brad is the ideal strategic business partner to Wiley’s forward-thinking executive team.”
-Amanda K. Brady, Managing Director/Chief Client Officer at The Alexander Group.
About Wiley Rein LLP
Wiley Rein LLP is a Washington, D.C.–based law firm with more than 240 attorneys practicing in areas such as telecom, insurance, government contracts, and public policy. Known for its focus on regulatory and litigation matters, the firm has earned a strong reputation for delivering strategic client solutions.
About The Alexander Group
The Alexander Group is a global executive search firm with offices in Houston and other U.S. cities. Serving industries including legal services, life sciences, healthcare, financial services, energy, technology, consumer goods, and nonprofit organizations, The Alexander Group specializes in delivering strategic, results-driven leadership placements tailored to each client’s needs.
Executive Search Consultants: John Lamar, Sarah Mitchell, Pamela DeLuca
Overview
Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP, a leading international law firm with a strong presence across eight global offices, engaged The Alexander Group to lead the search for a Chief Talent Officer. The firm required a proven executive to drive firmwide strategic initiatives related to executive search, retention, professional development, and overall talent performance.
Key Leadership Need
Katten sought a high-impact executive capable of elevating its talent function across legal and business services. The firm needed a leader with experience managing talent strategy at scale, aligning cultural values with firm objectives, and fostering a best-in-class experience for attorneys and staff alike.
The Alexander Group’s Approach
Drawing on deep expertise in legal executive search, Managing Directors John Lamar, Sarah Mitchell, and Pamela DeLuca launched a national search focused on candidates with a demonstrated ability to lead transformational talent strategies in global law firm environments.
Developing a customized search strategy aligned with Katten’s firmwide talent and leadership development goals.
Conducting comprehensive market research to identify proven talent executives with experience in global law firm environments.
Evaluating candidates for strategic leadership capability and cultural fit, ensuring alignment with Katten’s entrepreneurial and client-centric culture.
Successful Placement and Impact
Lisa Featherson, previously Chief People and Development Officer, US at Norton Rose Fulbright, was appointed Katten’s Chief Talent Officer. She brings extensive experience in strategic human capital initiatives across law firms, focusing on recruiting, professional development, and retention.
Immediate benefits:
Unified Leadership Across Talent Functions: Lisa oversees talent development and acquisition, human resources, performance management, professional development and training, leadership programming, and other areas, ensuring a cohesive strategy across all offices.
Alignment with Firm’s Strategic Objectives: Her role includes spearheading the creation and implementation of a human capital strategy that syncs with Katten’s strategic objectives, enhancing overall organizational effectiveness.
Enhanced Employee Satisfaction and Retention: Lisa is responsible for maintaining employee satisfaction by managing benefits, fostering a positive cultural environment, and leading compensation efforts, contributing to improved retention and morale.
Insights from the Executive Search Director
“Lisa is a dynamic, strategic, and high-energy talent executive with an exceptional track record of success in large law firm environments. She is the ideal leader to continue elevating Katten’s talent function.”
— Sarah J. Mitchell, Director, The Alexander Group
About Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP
Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP is a prestigious and dynamic international law firm with approximately 670 attorneys across eight global offices. The firm provides full-service legal counsel to a third of the Fortune 100, as well as government entities, nonprofit organizations, and individuals. Katten is recognized for its entrepreneurial culture and commitment to aligning legal service delivery with each client’s business goals.
About The Alexander Group
Specializing in executive search for law firms and financial leadership roles, The Alexander Group delivers strategic, results-driven placements tailored to each client’s unique needs.
Wendela von Munching has joined Clifford Chance as Chief People Officer.
Ms. von Munching has more than 25 years of strategic and operational human resources leadership experience with major multinational firms. Previously, she served as the worldwide Chief People Officer for Freshfields.
White & Case LLP — one of the world’s leading international law firms — partners with The Alexander Group, a global executive search firm, to recruit a Chief Marketing Officer. As the firm continues its global expansion, it seeks a marketing leader capable of strengthening its brand and driving firmwide growth through client engagement, data, and creativity.
Key Leadership Need
White & Case seeks a Chief Marketing Officer to oversee global marketing strategy, brand positioning, client development, communications, and marketing operations. The role requires a dynamic leader who can unify complex marketing functions across international offices while elevating the firm’s market presence and client experience.
The Alexander Group’s Approach
The search team — led by John Lamar, William Lepiesza, and Pam DeLuca — focuses on senior marketing executives with extensive experience building and scaling integrated marketing organizations across global professional services or financial institutions.
Search priorities included:
Strategic leadership in global brand development and campaign execution
Expertise in marketing transformation, team building, and digital enablement
Deep understanding of client-centric marketing in complex, B2B environments
Jason Hill emerges as the ideal candidate, bringing over 20 years of leadership in brand marketing and global media strategy at Goldman Sachs, GE, and BlackRock. His experience in unifying marketing functions across international markets and designing award-winning brand programs positions him as a transformative addition to White & Case’s leadership team.
Successful Placement and Impact
Jason Hill joins White & Case as Chief Marketing Officer. He leads the firm’s global marketing efforts, aligning brand, creative, communications, and business development teams under a unified growth strategy.
Immediate Impact:
Oversees global brand positioning and firm reputation strategy
Leads data-informed client development programs and marketing innovation
Builds a unified global marketing infrastructure across geographies and disciplines
Strengthens White & Case’s competitive positioning across global legal markets
Insights from the Recruiters
“Jason has been a key senior executive, driving revenue, market growth, and functional innovation with [the] leading multinational financial services and professional services firms.”
– John Lamar, Managing Director, The Alexander Group
About White & Case LLP
White & Case LLP is a global law firm with lawyers in 30 countries. Recognized for its strength in cross-border legal work, the firm serves clients across various sectors, including finance, technology, energy, and infrastructure. With a reputation for innovation, client service, and strategic advisory, White & Case is a leader in global legal services.
About The Alexander Group
The Alexander Group is a global executive search firm headquartered in Houston. With a reputation for precision and discretion, the firm helps law firms, financial institutions, and multinational organizations recruit senior leaders who drive brand growth and market expansion.
Brand matters — especially in global law. The Alexander Group helps firms find marketing leaders who bring clarity, creativity, and commercial growth.
