WittKieffer, a leading executive search firm, has acquired Ross & Company, a specialist executive recruiting firm, for an undisclosed amount. This acquisition marks a significant expansion for WittKieffer in the healthcare and life sciences executive search market, particularly within the private equity and venture capital spheres.
Established in 1992, Ross & Company has built a strong reputation as a strategic talent partner, serving prominent private equity and venture capital clients. The firm specializes in placing C-suite, Operating Partner, Board of Director, and functional leadership roles within sponsor-backed companies in the healthcare and life sciences sectors. A key component of Ross & Company is its role as the Founder and Host of Healthcare Leaders (HCL) Conferences and events, which convene leading investors and portfolio company operators from the healthcare industry.
WittKieffer is recognized as the largest healthcare-only executive search firm globally and ranks among the top ten search firms in the United States, operating with an investor-backed healthcare team of over 50 professionals. The acquisition of Ross & Company is strategically aimed at expanding WittKieffer's candidate reach, access, and insights, especially within the critical private equity segment. It also integrates Ross & Company’s specialized focus on leadership roles for sponsor-backed entities directly into WittKieffer’s broader platform.
The integration of Healthcare Leaders (HCL) into WittKieffer's platform is expected to extend its brand, convening authority, and thought leadership across the combined entity's ecosystem. Larry Ross, Founder of Ross & Company, will join WittKieffer as Senior Partner and Lead Partner for Private Equity, continuing his role as Chair of Healthcare Leaders. This move is anticipated to create a more comprehensive offering, combining WittKieffer's extensive network with Ross & Company's niche expertise and established investor relationships, ultimately enhancing service for clients seeking top talent in the evolving healthcare and life sciences landscapes.