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Stuart Gentle Publisher at Onrec

Russell Reynolds Associates appoints Nanaz Mohtashami as UK MD and Laura Sanderson as Co-Head of EMEA

Global leadership advisory firm, Russell Reynolds Associates (RRA), has named Nanaz Mohtashami as Head of the UK, succeeding Laura Sanderson. Laura, meanwhile, will assume a new role as Co-Head of Europe, Middle East & India.

Nanaz, a seasoned leadership executive with over 15 years of experience in leadership advisory, has been with Russell Reynolds since 2013. Before her appointment as Head of the UK, Nanaz ran Russell Reynolds’ Global Medtech Practice, working with clients across the world.   

Nanaz brings a rich experience building multinational teams to support high profile appointments and succession planning projects. In her new role, Nanaz will look to build upon the firm’s leadership expertise at a time when UK leaders face economic challenges at home, geopolitical risk overseas and a growing urgency to respond to technological and environmental change.  

“Good leadership is desperately important to the UK today” said Nanaz Mohtashami. “It is a privilege to support the next generation of leaders, as the decisions they make influence our economy, our environment and our values. Our role, as ever, is to listen to clients, build lasting relationships and guide them through this period of significant change. 

“I have experienced the best that Russell Reynolds has to offer, not just in the UK but across our network of exceptional global consultants. I look forward to unlocking this expertise for our UK clients at a time when business success is deeply tied to the global economic, political and technological landscape.”

Laura Sanderson, a recognised leader with 20 years of expertise in executive search and leadership advisory, will become Co-Head of Europe, Middle East & India alongside Filiep Deforche in Brussels. RRA UK saw significant growth under Laura’s leadership, with her expert advice on CEOs. In addition to her new position, Laura will continue her role as co-lead of the Board and CEO Advisory Practice in Europe. 

“This is an exciting but also sobering time for leaders in Europe,” said Laura Sanderson. “Businesses face the opportunities of generative AI, the threat of geopolitical disruption and feel the weight of responsibility created by the climate crisis.” 

“In an era where we need to look primarily to business rather than governments to play a role in addressing some of our largest societal challenges, companies need to demonstrate an understanding of their broader social role. I look forward to working with my colleagues throughout the region to help our clients build and develop diverse leadership teams which can embrace these challenges.”