Author: Paul Freed

Our Herd Freed Hartz executive search team was honored to partner with Starker Forests on a nationwide retained executive search to find their new Chief Executive Officer.

Since 1936, Starker Forests has owned and managed forests, striving for excellence in forest resource stewardship. As a 5th generation family business, Starker owns 95,000 acres of forestland, with a focus on community partnership and reinvestment. For almost a century, Starker Forests has built a solid foundation and culture, with an eye towards continued growth and innovation for generations to come.

Healthy culture – Starker has a strong commitment to living out their values of “Dedicated. Mindful. Innovative.” Starker believes in a triple bottom line approach (financial / social / environment) as they strive to be good stewards of the land, financially sustainable, innovative, and a good neighbor, with a family-friendly office culture and as an advocate for healthy managed forests.

With 95,000 acres of forestland (primarily between Corvallis, OR and the Oregon coast), Starker’s focus is on harvesting larger logs (~50 years) with high market demand from regional wood products companies. Starker has a strong balance sheet, and enjoys a simplified business model that enables a small headquarters team of 20 while utilizing external partners for forest management, harvest, fire- fighting and tree planting operations (500K seedlings planted annually). Starker continues to add approx. 2,000 acres annually to their forestland portfolio.

Community partnership – Starker Forests is a strong community partner through a mix of charitable giving, education, and a strong partnership with OSU College of Forestry. In addition, Starker provides community access to their forestland for mountain biking (Alder Creek Tree Farm), trails, environment and community education, and other recreational uses.

New innovation – Building on the company’s foundation of success and legacy, Starker continues to innovate with a vision for finding new niche markets, forest management practices, community recreational opportunities, and local business impact for the next generation.

This retained executive search project was led by Paul Freed/Managing Partner and Karen Bertiger/Partner.

“Lizzie is a true champion for the things we care about most — sustainable forestry practices, deep community involvement and the cultivation of a strong, supported workforce,” said Anna Starker May, a fourth-generation owner and board member.

“I am thrilled to be joining the Starker Forests family,” Marsters said. “I’m excited to learn from the incredible people here, build on the outstanding work of today, and help lead us into tomorrow. I look forward to bringing my passion for working forests, innovation and community impact to this next chapter at Starker.” (Full article)

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Family Business industry executive searches
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Our Herd Freed Hartz executive search team was honored to partner with Northwest Harvest on a nationwide retained executive search to find their new Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Northwest Harvest (NWH) is an anti-racist, anti-oppression organization committed to transforming an unjust food system into one that is more responsive and accountable to the communities most impacted by discrimination. In addition to distributing food throughout Washington, Northwest Harvest aims to shift public opinion, as well as impact institutional policies and societal practices that perpetuate hunger, poverty, and disparities in our state.

Northwest Harvest builds partnerships in communities across Washington to get food where it’s needed most. They provide an average of two million meals each month through our statewide network of more than 350 food banks, meal programs, schools, and community-based organizations. Part of a justice-centered movement, NWH advocates to change inequitable policies, practices, and institutions that perpetuate hunger and poverty. Together, they ensure communities across Washington state can access the nutritious food they want and need to thrive.

Thomas Reynolds, CEO, commented “Herd Freed Hartz has been an exceptional resource for me. I first worked with Fred Pabst when I was a candidate for the CEO role at Northwest Harvest. Communication was timely, clear, and responsive to my specific inquiries. My primary interest was aligning my values and sense of mission with an organization that was a fit for purpose. After joining Northwest Harvest, Herd Freed Hartz helped me to fill vitally important roles; Chief Operating Officer, Director of Procurement, Director of Public Policy. Step by step engagement to effectively market the roles led to outstanding and deeply talented pools of candidates. Ultimately, we landed supremely skilled team players in all three roles who are driving our strategies forward and preparing Northwest Harvest for a purpose-driven future.”

This retained executive search project was led by Fred Pabst/Partner.

Learn more about Herd Freed Hartz’s track record in:
Non Profit industry executive searches
Chief Operating Officer (COO) leadership searches

Our Herd Freed Hartz executive search team was honored to partner with America’s Automotive Trust on a nationwide retained executive search to find their new CEO.

It wasn’t long ago that cars were a much bigger part of American life. For most, they were the first taste of freedom that opened the doors – and the world – to endless possibilities. Cruising down the main drag or backroads for Sunday family adventures was part of life. Now, cruising with friends has been replaced by a virtual world seen from a screen.

America’s Automotive Trust (AAT) believes that cars connect us to the best things in life and that America’s love affair with the automobile should not only be recognized as part of our history, but of our future. Knowing others believe the same, AAT saw an opportunity for like-minded organizations to work together and, in 2016, established America’s Automotive Trust to do just that.

Together with their partners and member organizations of LeMay – America’s Car Museum, the RPM Foundation, Club Auto and the Concours Club, they fulfill our purpose to honor the past, celebrate the present, and drive the future of car culture. Education is at the heart of everything we do, and driving is at our core – from the classroom to the open road.

Much of modern-day American culture has been built on the means of transportation, and the future of mobility is as crucial now as it has ever been. Our automotive heritage should be secured for future generations – a mission that can only truly be accomplished by working together. Through America’s Automotive Trust, they share resources and support each other, streamlining efforts to make a greater impact. It’s the love of everything automotive. The feel of the wind in your hair, or a wrench in your hand. The adrenaline of stepping on the accelerator, and the thrill of the journey rather than the destination. It’s the determination and satisfaction of fixing something, and having a community to enjoy it with.

America’s Automotive Trust believes in not only preserving the passion for cars, but also being sure it continues to thrive. That’s why America’s Automotive Trust exists.

“I cannot adequately express my excitement that Joe Jacuzzi will assume leadership of America’s Automotive Trust this January,” Founding CEO David Madeira said. “Joe’s vast experience in the automotive and other industries, and expertise in marketing and communications will enable the Trust to fulfill its vision of ‘honoring the past, celebrating the present, and driving the future’ of our automotive culture under his strong leadership. I am honored that Joe believes in the mission of the Trust and as I prepare for my new exciting role focused on strategic initiatives for AAT, I will do all that I can to assist him as he leads the Trust to greater prominence.”

“I am honored to join the AAT team,” Joe Jacuzzi said. “AAT’s mission of promoting trade skills, education, and the celebration of automotive culture are incredibly important to the country. And with the stunning LeMay – America’s Car Museum as the crown jewel, I’m very excited to work with the AAT Board, the team, donors and volunteers on continuing to advance their key initiatives and fueling the next generation of automotive enthusiasts.”

For the full press release on their CEO announcement.

This retained executive search project was led by Fred Pabst/Partner.

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Our Herd Freed Hartz executive search team was honored to partner with Centerforce on a nationwide retained executive search to find their new Executive Director.

Since 1968, Centerforce has been empowering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to engage with their communities in meaningful and impactful ways. As one of the largest providers for south King, Pierce and Thurston counties, Centerforce serves over 200 individuals with disabilities by partnering with county services and local employers to provide job placement services and assist clients in becoming independent members of the community through direct face-to-face support.

Centerforce offers individuals an opportunity to learn, practice and apply life skills that promote greater independence, community inclusion, and enhance quality of life and engagement in their community. This is an exciting time to join Centerforce as this well-established, financially sound organization prepares to channel existing resources into new areas of growth, opportunity and expansion. They are seeking a creative, passionate, scrappy, mission-driven Executive Director with the vision to lead Centerforce into the future.

Mission Statement: To empower adults with disabilities to engage in their community through advocacy, employment and education.

This retained executive search project was led by Karen Bertiger/Partner and Ross Fletcher/Partner.

Learn more about Herd Freed Hartz’s track record in:
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Our Herd Freed Hartz executive search team was honored to partner with G3 Builders on a retained executive search to find their new President.

Founded in 2017, G3 Builders is a Seattle-based firm with a focused mission: to deliver exceptional service and long-term value to clients in the life sciences and research industries. Rather than prioritizing revenue, G3 is committed to building lasting relationships through expert delivery of complex, technically challenging projects. 

The team at G3 is highly experienced, selective, and driven by a deep understanding of each client’s vision. With a lean, empowered operation and no corporate red tape, G3 is agile and responsive— ensuring cost-effective, high-quality outcomes from concept through closeout. Local to the Seattle market, G3 brings deep ties to the life sciences community and leverages strong industry relationships to craft innovative construction solutions. 

At G3, every project is personal. Clients benefit from consistent teams, zero disruptions to critical work, and a commitment to excellence that goes beyond the build. 

This retained executive search project was led by Chris Blais/Partner and Jim Herd/Managing Partner.

Learn more about Herd Freed Hartz’s track record in:
Real Estate & Construction industry executive searches
CEO & President leadership searches

Our Herd Freed Hartz executive search team was honored to partner with Craft3 on a nationwide retained executive search to find their new CEO.

CRAFT3’S MISSION
Craft3 is a nonprofit community development organization that uses capital, relationships, and advocacy to build a thriving, just, and empowered Pacific Northwest. The organization invests in people, businesses, and communities, advancing a vision of shared prosperity across the region.

With more than $225 million in total assets, a staff of 84, and offices throughout Oregon and Washington, Craft3 pairs rigorous financial stewardship with an ambitious community development mission. It provides high-impact loans to businesses, homeowners, and nonprofits—especially those unable to access traditional financing. For more than 30 years, Craft3 has delivered financial services across the Pacific Northwest, investing nearly $893 million since its founding in 1994. This investment represents more than 2,000 commercial loans and nearly 10,000 consumer loans to homeowners.

CRAFT3’S STRATEGY
Although capital is Craft3’s primary tool for creating change, the organization operates as more than a lender. Craft3 builds relationships, connects unlikely partners, and elevates the stories of the people and communities it serves. It is recognized nationally for its innovative financial products and its ability to execute customized, high-touch lending solutions at scale. Craft3 focuses on three key challenges facing the Pacific Northwest—challenges that require systems-level change.

RURAL AND TRIBAL ECONOMIES
The region does not provide Tribal and rural communities with sufficient opportunities for economic growth and self-determination, and the broader Pacific Northwest suffers as a result. While forests, fisheries, and other natural resources once fueled significant economic activity, the decline of unsustainable natural resource extraction has left many rural economies struggling and often excluded from the prosperity seen in urban areas. Craft3 works to change this.

SYSTEMIC RACISM
The Pacific Northwest continues to be constrained by racial inequities rooted in a long history of racism and discriminatory practices. These inequities harm the entire region and limit its collective potential. Race continues to shape economic opportunity, life outcomes, and the conditions into which people are born. On average, Black, brown, and Indigenous communities have less wealth, lower educational attainment, shorter life expectancies, and lower rates of homeownership. Craft3 works to change this.

CLIMATE CRISIS
The region faces a growing climate crisis that disproportionately affects minority and low-income communities and threatens overall quality of life and economic growth. Droughts, heat waves, floods, and wildfires are already impacting the Pacific Northwest. These events hit vulnerable populations hardest, and these same communities often lack the resources needed to adapt or to benefit from emerging climate-related economic opportunities. Craft3 works to change this.

Portland Business Journal interview with Elisabeth Zeller as the new CEO at Craft3.

This retained executive search project was led by Karen Bertiger/Partner and Scott Rabinowitz/Partner.

Learn more about Herd Freed Hartz’s track record in:
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Our Herd Freed Hartz executive search team was honored to partner with Photon Kinetics on a nationwide retained executive search to find their new Director of Operations.

Photon Kinetics is the leading supplier of measurement solutions for the optical fiber, cable and component manufacturing industry. 95% of the world’s optical fiber has been tested using their equipment. Founded in 1979, Photon Kinetics developed a comprehensive product portfolio that streamline fiber optic measurements by simplifying time-intensive fiber preparation and handling tasks across Fiber Manufacturing, Cable Manufacturing and Next Generation Specialty Fibers. Additionally, the company provides advanced measurement technology for optical transmission systems, network monitoring, and field test equipment, as well as industry-standard fiber cleaving technology for high-performance fiber optic components and installation/maintenance equipment.

Photon Kineticshas grown a team of 65 supporting a global customer base manufacturing low-volume, highly customized solutions. This market leadership position and future trends in AI/Datacenters attracted private equity investment for growth and continued innovation.

This retained executive search project was led by Paul Freed/Managing Partner.

Learn more about Herd Freed Hartz’s track record in:
Manufacturing industry executive searches
Private Equity industry executive searches
COO & Operations leadership searches

Our Herd Freed Hartz executive search team was honored to partner with the Seattle Center Foundation on a nationwide retained executive search to find their new Executive Director.

Seattle Center Foundation (SCF) is excited about Rob Johnson joining as a dynamic and civic-minded Executive Director to guide their organization through a period of bold transformation. This is a rare opportunity to lead one of Seattle’s most iconic and meaningful civic institutions into its next chapter—anchored by a $100M endowment campaign, deepening public-private partnerships, and renewed citywide alignment.

Seattle Center is a place of profound cultural memory and aspiration. Home to the Space Needle, Climate Pledge Arena, McCaw Hall and over 30 arts and civic organizations, it has long served as a vibrant crossroads for community, culture, celebration, and treasured events. As we enter a once-in-a-generation moment of investment and imagination, SCF is poised to elevate its role from behind-the-scenes support to catalytic leadership. The next Executive Director will carry that vision forward.

Founded in 1977, Seattle Center Foundation exists to support the mission and future of Seattle Center. Historically, SCF has raised and stewarded funds for beloved programs like Festál, Winterfest, and the Seattle/King County Clinic, while advocating for inclusive access and public celebration.

Seattle Centerhasn’t undergone this kind of civic transformation since it was built for the 1962 World’s Fair. The City, civic leaders, and the Seattle Center Foundation are aligned behind a vision to create a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable campus—one that reflects the full promise of a shared public commons in a growing and diverse city.

With just four staff members today, the Foundation is embarking on a period of organizational growth—expanding its fundraising capacity, communications infrastructure, and leadership reach. This evolution is supported by strong board leadership, a clear strategic framework, and deep alignment with the City of Seattle and the Department of Seattle Center.

This retained executive search project was led by Scott Rabinowitz/Partner and Ross Fletcher/Partner.

Learn more about Herd Freed Hartz’s track record in:
Non Profit industry executive searches
CEO & Executive Director leadership searches