Jan 2021 – Jan 2023 · 2 yrs · Boston, Massachusetts, United States · Hybrid

• Savage Partners was successfully acquired by Russell Reynolds in 2023.
• The firm is the leading boutique retained executive search firm partnering with growth-focused Private Equity and Venture Capital backed middle-market technology companies worldwide.
• They specialize in Board of Director, CEO, CFO, CRO, CMO, CTO searches.

Jan 2015 – Present · 11 yrs 3 mos · Greater Boston Area · Hybrid

• Innova is led by Ken Vancini, who was a founder of ZRG Partners, which ranked as the 7th largest search firm in 2024. Innova aims to offer valuable advisory services to organizations around the globe.
• Ken Vancini brings over 25 years of experience in the executive search field, giving him a deep understanding of the industry and a keen eye for identifying and securing top talent. Innova's services encompass Chat GPT & AI Advisory, community roundtables, and general business advisory services.
• Over the past five years, Ken has organized community roundtables centered on critical roles in executive search, including CEO, COO, PE/VC Talent Partners, Technology, in-house talent partners, and Researcher. These roundtables involve industry leaders and experts, facilitating meaningful conversations and idea generation, ultimately assisting organizations in navigating the intricate world of executive search and talent acquisition.
• Innova Advisory Services is committed to helping Search Firms by providing solutions and expert advice, allowing them to remain competitive and succeed in a constantly changing market. We are dedicated to offering in-depth insights and strategic guidance for the betterment of your organization.

Jan 1999 – Jan 2015 · 16 yrs · Boston Ma

• Founded ZRG Partners in 1999, transforming it into a global leader in executive search and talent management. Spearheaded the development of data-driven, client-centric solutions that fueled a 30% compounded annual growth rate, elevating ZRG to international recognition. Expanded the firm’s reach to over 33 countries, managing executive searches for high-profile clients like John Deere, Bank of America, and American Express, while personally leading searches in 22 countries.
• Drove the recruitment, retention, and alignment of top-tier global partners, fostering a high-performance culture that positioned ZRG as a key player in the executive search industry. Established and implemented best-in-class operating practices across all global locations, overseeing research, recruitment, IT, marketing, and accounting efforts.
• Pioneered the Z Score process, a proprietary talent assessment tool designed to align candidate selection with client-specific cultural and role requirements. Initiated operational strategies that streamlined workflows and enhanced global collaboration, consistently delivering superior results for clients across diverse sectors.

Nov 1996 – Oct 1999 · 2 yrs 11 mos · Boston MA

• Recruited to position after acquisition of Rockford Industries. Managed a nationwide sales force in equipment leasing for technology, healthcare and hard assets.
• Built, strategized and led sales team to deliver unprecedented sales results.
• Led team to consistently achieve challenging sales goals through training, coaching, mentoring, performance management and career development blended with strong leadership, initiative and communication skills.
• Expanded reach, influence and revenue opportunities by creating new strategies, identifying potential markets to penetrate and introducing new products.
• Managed the sales department prior to the $120M sale of Rockford to American Express. Directed sales team through effective coaching, support and guidance. Drove significant increases in sales and new business development through the development of key marketing initiatives, sales strategies and trend analysis.
• Successfully helped grow the company from $80M in sales to $250M+ within 4 years.
• Conducted national training program on vendor development.
• Instrumental in hiring and developing national sales talent.

Nov 1993 – Nov 1996 · 3 yrs · New York, United States

• Served as a key sales technical resource for the $1.6B division of AT&T Capital.
• Relocated to Minnesota to run the newly acquired company, including directing profitability, sales and service as well as company-wide financial oversight.
• Implemented first in the national documentation software.
• Tripled sales within 2 years; closed the top 2 accounts in the company.
• Recognized as Sales Manager of the Year and Top Division in the company
• Published author
• Relocated to New Jersey to manage the sales force for the largest division of Tricon Leasing.
• Implemented a nationwide CRM system for the company.
• Recognized as a leader in process automation and sales development. Salesforce.com expert