Meet Our Team of Experienced Executive Search Experts

The Knowledge Leaders team is composed of executive search experts with a passion for cross-pollinating talent across various industries. With this approach, we have successfully recruited the top minds to fill leadership roles in private equity, technology and education.  Learn more about our team below.

executive search experts

Todd Hand
Founder & Managing Partner

Todd Hand is an executive search veteran of 25+ years, and his mission to modernize executive search led to the founding of Knowledge Leaders. He has successfully selected and placed executives within the education, technology and private equity arenas since 1994. He is also an avid gardener, fledgling guitar player and a two-time Ironman finisher residing in Arizona.

executive search experts

Alison Thompson
Senior Recruiter

Alison Thompson leads searches at the board and C-level across all sectors of for-profit education. Alison’s ability to understand business issues, and company culture, coupled with her track record of finding exceptional talent, has earned her a reputation as a trusted advisor to clients and candidates. Alison lives in San Francisco and likes to cook and hike in her spare time.

executive search experts

Peggy Williams
Senior Recruiter/Senior Researcher/Marketing Manager

Peggy Williams brings 30 years’ expertise as an accomplished EdTech and talent acquisitions leader to her relationship with clients seeking experienced and innovative C-Suite leadership.

Her experience in both large corporations and small start-ups gives her a unique lens into a variety of workplace environments and how each potential candidate can add value to a company’s culture with their unique skills and life experience.

She is a certified DEI recruiter and is consistently building the relationships necessary to discover talented people ready for their next opportunity.

Peggy lives in Bristol, England and she uses her spare time practicing her Mai Tai making skills and watching Columbo reruns.

Heather Phillips
Recruiter

Heather Phillips brings a wealth of experience from the field of public education to her role as a recruiter at Knowledge Leaders Group. Her career journey began as a teacher, and she later advanced to a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), where she developed strong analytical skills and a deep appreciation for building meaningful relationships.

She leverages her experience in education to identify and connect top talent with opportunities that align with their strengths and aspirations. Her approach is both data-driven and people-focused, ensuring that each placement is a perfect fit for both the candidate and the company.

Outside of work, Heather enjoys cooking, traveling, and gardening.

executive search experts

Marian Hand
Chief Financial Officer

Marian Hand is an attorney licensed in MA, NH and NM who practiced commercial litigation in complex insurance and financial and banking cases.  Her outside interests include cooking, travel and yoga.

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