What We Do
Executive Search Redefined
Transparency, integrity, and empathy are the pillars upon which we built our company. We believe in fostering an environment where every candidate and client feels valued, heard, and supported throughout the entire executive search process.
With our partnership, we will shape an Executive landscape for your organization where inclusivity thrives. When underrepresented voices are elevated, excellence knows no boundaries.
Choose us, a women minority-owned and operated recruiting firm that understands your needs for a diverse, innovative, exceptional executive workforce.
Together, we will break barriers, unlock untapped potential, and build a brighter future one exceptional leader at a time.
About Bonn Search Partners
Inclusive Executive Leadership Strategy
Bonn Search Partners is more than just another recruiting firm. We are trailblazers.
In our belief, inclusivity and representation matter tremendously. We know that true innovation and success come from embracing a multitude of perspectives and experiences.
A greater purpose drives us; to set new standards for excellence and inclusivity.
Meet the Team
Marie Manalansan-Bonn
Founder | Managing Director
Marie Bonn is the founder of Bonn Search Partners, a boutique Executive Search firm. She works closely with companies of various sizes, from startups with less than $1M in revenue to multi-global organizations with over $1B in revenue, to address their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Executive Search needs. As a trusted partner to Founders, CEOs, and Boards of Directors, she is instrumental in organizations seeking top-level diverse talent.
Marie's dedication to breaking barriers and fostering an inclusive world inspired her to establish Bonn Partners, a company committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. With a profound understanding of DEI initiatives, she assists organizations in creating more equitable and diverse teams, one placement at a time.
Before founding Bonn Search Partners, Marie was a Senior Partner at Mogul, hailed as the “world’s largest platform for women and diverse professionals” by Business Insider and the “best partner for finding top talent” by Inc. and “top partner for marketing your company” by Forbes. In her role, she led Mogul's Diversified Executive Search practice, successfully placing underrepresented senior leadership, including roles at the SVP, C-Suite, and Board of Directors levels across multiple sectors such as Technology, Media, Consumer Products, Retail, Private Equity, and VC-backed ventures. Marie was among the pioneers in Mogul's Diversified Executive Search.
Before her tenure at Mogul, Marie spent 11 years at Lucas Group, a Korn Ferry company, as an Executive Senior Partner. She made successful leadership placements from the VP level to the C-Suite for a variety of companies, including Fortune 500 firms, fast-growing startups, and PE and VC-backed enterprises. During her time there, she was recognized with accolades such as the Platinum Elite (Top 10% in the company), President’s Club (achieved by only 5% of the company), and the Sterling Club. She contributed significantly to the company's growth, helping it scale from $40M to over $100M in revenue.
Marie earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and finance from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). Given her extensive experience and dedication to fostering a more inclusive world, Marie is an esteemed advocate for building diverse leadership teams that drive success for both organizations and individuals.
Marie's dedication to breaking barriers and fostering an inclusive world inspired her to establish Bonn Partners, a company committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. With a profound understanding of DEI initiatives, she assists organizations in creating more equitable and diverse teams, one placement at a time.
Before founding Bonn Search Partners, Marie was a Senior Partner at Mogul, hailed as the “world’s largest platform for women and diverse professionals” by Business Insider and the “best partner for finding top talent” by Inc. and “top partner for marketing your company” by Forbes. In her role, she led Mogul's Diversified Executive Search practice, successfully placing underrepresented senior leadership, including roles at the SVP, C-Suite, and Board of Directors levels across multiple sectors such as Technology, Media, Consumer Products, Retail, Private Equity, and VC-backed ventures. Marie was among the pioneers in Mogul's Diversified Executive Search.
Before her tenure at Mogul, Marie spent 11 years at Lucas Group, a Korn Ferry company, as an Executive Senior Partner. She made successful leadership placements from the VP level to the C-Suite for a variety of companies, including Fortune 500 firms, fast-growing startups, and PE and VC-backed enterprises. During her time there, she was recognized with accolades such as the Platinum Elite (Top 10% in the company), President’s Club (achieved by only 5% of the company), and the Sterling Club. She contributed significantly to the company's growth, helping it scale from $40M to over $100M in revenue.
Marie earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and finance from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). Given her extensive experience and dedication to fostering a more inclusive world, Marie is an esteemed advocate for building diverse leadership teams that drive success for both organizations and individuals.
Kenny Rogers
Executive Account Senior Partner
Kenny, a native Texan, brings a unique blend of southern charm, independence, and cultural appreciation to his role at Bonn Search Partners. Prior to joining our team, Kenny served as a Global Partnership Lead at Mogul, where he excelled in placing high-profile C-Suite and Board roles within the technology sector, contributing to the company's global expansion.
Kenny's professional journey began at Dell, where he honed his skills in managing complex sales cycles as an Account Executive. His ability to navigate intricate business landscapes led him to roles at Fortune 500 companies like Oracle and Indeed, where he consistently exceeded sales targets and contributed to strategic growth initiatives.
What sets Kenny apart is his authentic communication style. He believes in transparency and sincerity, qualities that have helped him build trust and forge enduring partnerships with clients. His ability to understand and cater to clients' unique needs has been instrumental in his success. Beyond his professional pursuits, Kenny is a passionate sports enthusiast, rooting for the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Astros. His love for sports extends to his community involvement, often connecting with fellow Texans over shared sports interests. Kenny holds a degree in Radio & Television Production from Sam Houston State University. His educational background, combined with his diverse skill set and genuine Texas spirit, enriches every aspect of his professional and personal life
Jo Haines
Managing Director
JO HAINES has over 25 years of retained executive search experience in various industries and disciplines. She has made key placements from Director to C-level in startup, SMB, and Fortune 1000 companies. Jo has experience building leadership and executive teams within organizations enduring cost-cutting turnarounds, those increasing revenues through scaling and replication, and those experiencing hypergrowth within eCommerce, CPG, Apparel, Manufacturing, and Luxury industries.
As a seasoned veteran in the search industry, Jo knows that success comes from solid relationships based on trust and mutual respect that form lasting partnerships. Jo takes a strategic and hands-on approach to all she does, aiming to fit in that last piece of the puzzle and create successful results for clients and candidates alike.
Prior to joining Bonn Partners, Jo was SVP of Executive Search and Client Relations with CPC Talent, a boutique search firm specializing in Private Equity and Venture-backed companies within consumer goods, business services, and manufacturing.
Before her tenure with CPC Talent, Jo was the Practice Leader of Retail, eCommerce, and Consumer Goods with MOGUL, a VC-backed talent acquisition SaaS company offering Executive and Board Search Services with a focus on providing diverse talent.
Prior to MOGUL, Jo spent 17 years with C-Suite Corp, a boutique retained executive search firm offering high-touch, customized retained executive search services, as a fundamental partner conducting searches from the Director level up through the C-Suite. She earned a Bachelors in Education from Fitchburg State University.
As a seasoned veteran in the search industry, Jo knows that success comes from solid relationships based on trust and mutual respect that form lasting partnerships. Jo takes a strategic and hands-on approach to all she does, aiming to fit in that last piece of the puzzle and create successful results for clients and candidates alike.
Prior to joining Bonn Partners, Jo was SVP of Executive Search and Client Relations with CPC Talent, a boutique search firm specializing in Private Equity and Venture-backed companies within consumer goods, business services, and manufacturing.
Before her tenure with CPC Talent, Jo was the Practice Leader of Retail, eCommerce, and Consumer Goods with MOGUL, a VC-backed talent acquisition SaaS company offering Executive and Board Search Services with a focus on providing diverse talent.
Prior to MOGUL, Jo spent 17 years with C-Suite Corp, a boutique retained executive search firm offering high-touch, customized retained executive search services, as a fundamental partner conducting searches from the Director level up through the C-Suite. She earned a Bachelors in Education from Fitchburg State University.
Desiree Brown
Managing Partner
Desiree Brown brings a wealth of experience and an extensive network to her role as Managing Partner at Bonn Search Partners. She has a deep commitment to client success, an unmatched understanding of the recruitment landscape, and a persistent drive to promote inclusive and progressive workplace cultures.
With over 30 years in recruitment and executive search, Desiree has a proven record of driving growth and excellence across multiple industries including finance, technology, banking, retail, and advertising. Her career began in the dynamic tech landscape of San Francisco, where she led a team of recruiters to become the #1 search division in the Bay Area and a multi-million dollar entity.
Transitioning to Southern California, Desiree led recruiting efforts for a San Francisco-based boutique firm before joining The Adecco Group, where she cultivated staffing solutions for diverse roles within accounting, finance, IT, and engineering. As Director of Business Development for The Bachrach Group, she was instrumental in establishing a significant West Coast presence, orchestrating nationwide staffing strategies that supported a variety of industries including marketing, finance, manufacturing and healthcare.
Holding a Bachelor of Arts in Law & Society from the University of California, Santa Barbara, Desiree's profound understanding of the recruitment industry and her commitment to ethical practices have established her as a leader in shaping dynamic teams that drive organizational success. Additionally, she serves as Principal Consultant at Heartfelt Consulting, assisting young adults (and professionals in transition) to successfully navigate their career journeys.
Desiree is involved in various charitable organizations and community services throughout Southern California, demonstrating her commitment to making a positive impact both professionally and within her community. She enjoys spending time at the beach and with her husband and adult children.
Annie Wilson
Director of Talent Acquisition
Annie is a data-driven, full cycle, senior recruiter with over 25 years of retained search experience connecting organizations with top-tier talent, from Managers and Directors to C-level executives. Her expertise spans multiple functional areas from digital, marketing, sales and e-commerce to technology, finance and operations. Establishing consultative partnerships with internal and external stakeholders has been the hallmark of her success. Her commitment to creating diverse workplaces is at the forefront of her recruiting philosophy, ensuring that the talent she attracts not only meets the needs of organizations but also contributes to a richer and more inclusive corporate culture.
Annie’s senior level and executive placements span multiple business sectors, including consumer packaged goods (CPG), retail, health and beauty, non-profit, technology/SaaS, startups, and manufacturing. She thrives in entrepreneurial environments where resources are limited, processes are lacking, and creativity, grit, and tenacity are required.
Before joining Bonn Search Partners, Annie was Partner, Global Diversified Search, at Mogul, an innovator in the $200 billion global recruitment market. Mogul is a VC-backed talent acquisition SaaS company offering executive and Board search services focusing on providing diverse talent. Annie was responsible for placing strategic senior-level talent at start-up, SaaS/technology, non-profit, and retail clients.
Before joining Mogul, Annie spent more than a decade as the Director of Executive Recruiting at Digital Prophets Network , a boutique, customer-centric commerce consulting, placement and advisory firm focused specifically on building, improving and enhancing digital and ecommerce proficiencies. She was instrumental in building C-level leadership teams that function as change catalysts, innovators , customer champions and digital transformers.
Earlier in her career Annie held senior recruiting positions at Technisource (Randstad), C-Suite Corp and sales management positions within the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, working for or catering to small and global organizations including Harvard University, Janssen Pharmacuetica and Fidelity Investments.
Annie earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and Communications from Boston College. She lives on the northshore of Boston with her husband and adult children and enjoys all that New England offers including hiking, beaching, skiing, and spending time with family.
Annie’s senior level and executive placements span multiple business sectors, including consumer packaged goods (CPG), retail, health and beauty, non-profit, technology/SaaS, startups, and manufacturing. She thrives in entrepreneurial environments where resources are limited, processes are lacking, and creativity, grit, and tenacity are required.
Before joining Bonn Search Partners, Annie was Partner, Global Diversified Search, at Mogul, an innovator in the $200 billion global recruitment market. Mogul is a VC-backed talent acquisition SaaS company offering executive and Board search services focusing on providing diverse talent. Annie was responsible for placing strategic senior-level talent at start-up, SaaS/technology, non-profit, and retail clients.
Before joining Mogul, Annie spent more than a decade as the Director of Executive Recruiting at Digital Prophets Network , a boutique, customer-centric commerce consulting, placement and advisory firm focused specifically on building, improving and enhancing digital and ecommerce proficiencies. She was instrumental in building C-level leadership teams that function as change catalysts, innovators , customer champions and digital transformers.
Earlier in her career Annie held senior recruiting positions at Technisource (Randstad), C-Suite Corp and sales management positions within the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, working for or catering to small and global organizations including Harvard University, Janssen Pharmacuetica and Fidelity Investments.
Annie earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and Communications from Boston College. She lives on the northshore of Boston with her husband and adult children and enjoys all that New England offers including hiking, beaching, skiing, and spending time with family.
Nelson Valencia
Senior Client Partner
Nelson is a Senior Client Partner at Bonn Search Partners. He brings over 11 years of experience in sales and client-facing roles to the table. The cornerstone of Nelson's approach is building strong relationships. He has established himself as a trusted advisor to VP and C-Suite executives, empowering transformational change in the realm of DEI initiatives.
Nelson's client portfolio is broad and diverse, spanning start-ups, pre-IPO companies, and Fortune 500 behemoths. His areas of expertise extend across various industries such as Software/Technology, Human Resources, DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), Talent Acquisition, Finance, IoT, Insurance, Education, Construction, and Healthcare. Through his deep immersion in these sectors, Nelson has developed a profound understanding of the unique challenges his clients face. He excels in tailoring targeted solutions to these challenges.
Before joining Bonn Search Partners, Nelson built a solid track record as a Senior Enterprise Account Executive with Mogul. During his tenure, he forged partnerships with executive leaders from renowned companies such as Walt Disney, Walgreens, TELUS International, 2K Gaming, Cupertino Electric, SHI International, TTEC, Supercell, United States Institute of Peace, and many of the Fortune 50-1000 firms. He offered DEI executive and board search services, as well as talent acquisition software solutions. Nelson's strategic acumen significantly contributed to his success in driving go-to-market strategies, optimizing sales operations, and implementing effective marketing campaigns. His mission is to help organizations reach their goals and foster inclusive workplaces.
Nelson is a graduate of De La Salle University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with a focus on Business and Technical Communication.
Nelson's client portfolio is broad and diverse, spanning start-ups, pre-IPO companies, and Fortune 500 behemoths. His areas of expertise extend across various industries such as Software/Technology, Human Resources, DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), Talent Acquisition, Finance, IoT, Insurance, Education, Construction, and Healthcare. Through his deep immersion in these sectors, Nelson has developed a profound understanding of the unique challenges his clients face. He excels in tailoring targeted solutions to these challenges.
Before joining Bonn Search Partners, Nelson built a solid track record as a Senior Enterprise Account Executive with Mogul. During his tenure, he forged partnerships with executive leaders from renowned companies such as Walt Disney, Walgreens, TELUS International, 2K Gaming, Cupertino Electric, SHI International, TTEC, Supercell, United States Institute of Peace, and many of the Fortune 50-1000 firms. He offered DEI executive and board search services, as well as talent acquisition software solutions. Nelson's strategic acumen significantly contributed to his success in driving go-to-market strategies, optimizing sales operations, and implementing effective marketing campaigns. His mission is to help organizations reach their goals and foster inclusive workplaces.
Nelson is a graduate of De La Salle University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with a focus on Business and Technical Communication.
Shawna Rice
Executive Senior Partner
As an accomplished Executive Senior Partner, Shawna distinguishes herself with a remarkable blend of expertise in Leadership Diversity recruiting. Her results-oriented approach, honed through diverse experiences spanning educational start-ups to Fortune 500 companies, is demonstrably successful in attracting top-notch talent and facilitating complex search processes to deliver unmatched results for clients.
Leveraging a rich background in the fast-growing startup environment and workforce sectors, Shawna excels in orchestrating the entire recruitment procedure. She holds a particular niche in Accounting & Finance, managing every phase proficiently—from scouting and vetting candidates to negotiating and securing outstanding offers.
Shawna's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives over the past nine years stands as a testament to her strategic vision. Her unwavering quality, integrity, and readiness to go above and beyond have fostered resilient bonds with stakeholders at all organizational tiers, cementing her reputation as a trusted industry expert.
At the core of her success is her knack for nurturing personable relationships with both candidates and clients. Shawna adeptly handles multiple concurrent opportunities, maintaining a pipeline of highly qualified candidates ready to meet the dynamic needs of the industry. Her consultative approach, complemented by thorough research, deep industry insights, and cutting-edge recruitment technologies, enables her to pinpoint and introduce top-tier candidates to clients with efficiency and finesse, reinforcing her pledge to excellence in every endeavor
Leveraging a rich background in the fast-growing startup environment and workforce sectors, Shawna excels in orchestrating the entire recruitment procedure. She holds a particular niche in Accounting & Finance, managing every phase proficiently—from scouting and vetting candidates to negotiating and securing outstanding offers.
Shawna's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives over the past nine years stands as a testament to her strategic vision. Her unwavering quality, integrity, and readiness to go above and beyond have fostered resilient bonds with stakeholders at all organizational tiers, cementing her reputation as a trusted industry expert.
At the core of her success is her knack for nurturing personable relationships with both candidates and clients. Shawna adeptly handles multiple concurrent opportunities, maintaining a pipeline of highly qualified candidates ready to meet the dynamic needs of the industry. Her consultative approach, complemented by thorough research, deep industry insights, and cutting-edge recruitment technologies, enables her to pinpoint and introduce top-tier candidates to clients with efficiency and finesse, reinforcing her pledge to excellence in every endeavor
Rhonda Taylor
Board Advisor
Rhonda Taylor has carved a niche for herself in the corporate world, specifically in the realm of executive search and business development. As an experienced executive leader, she possesses an impressive professional record that spans over two decades. Throughout her illustrious career, Rhonda has fostered strong professional relationships with both burgeoning and well-established brands across a spectrum of industries. This extensive network includes high-growth enterprises, private equity and venture capital firms, and boards of directors. Rhonda is not only a facilitator, but also a keen observer and insightful strategist, offering an invaluable resource for complex hiring challenges.
Her broad experience extends across a wide range of corporate functions. Rhonda's skills are not confined to a single discipline but traverse through operations, digital, marketing, sales, creative, finance, and technology. This cross-functional expertise enables her to understand the unique needs and challenges of each sector, equipping her with the capability to propose effective solutions for a variety of hiring situations.
The journey of Rhonda’s successful career in recruiting started back in 2003. Over the years, she has formed invaluable partnerships with companies and brands spread across the nation, aiding their growth and leadership hiring. Her hands-on leadership experience in the past decade involves not only guiding high-growth start-up recruiting firms but also strategically scaling teams. She has exhibited her entrepreneurial spirit and knack for business growth by nurturing search industry businesses from their infancy to $30M powerhouses.
Moreover, Rhonda has showcased her versatility by establishing an Executive search division within a Software as a Service (SaaS) technology company. In the past couple of years, she has broadened her expertise by immersing herself in the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) space. She passionately partners with organizations, striving to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion at the highest level. Her commitment to these principles is evident in her dedication to sourcing diverse talent pools, ensuring the representation and inclusion of traditionally marginalized groups in top-level leadership roles. Rhonda's expansive career and diverse expertise highlight her as a powerful player in the executive search and business development industry.
Her broad experience extends across a wide range of corporate functions. Rhonda's skills are not confined to a single discipline but traverse through operations, digital, marketing, sales, creative, finance, and technology. This cross-functional expertise enables her to understand the unique needs and challenges of each sector, equipping her with the capability to propose effective solutions for a variety of hiring situations.
The journey of Rhonda’s successful career in recruiting started back in 2003. Over the years, she has formed invaluable partnerships with companies and brands spread across the nation, aiding their growth and leadership hiring. Her hands-on leadership experience in the past decade involves not only guiding high-growth start-up recruiting firms but also strategically scaling teams. She has exhibited her entrepreneurial spirit and knack for business growth by nurturing search industry businesses from their infancy to $30M powerhouses.
Moreover, Rhonda has showcased her versatility by establishing an Executive search division within a Software as a Service (SaaS) technology company. In the past couple of years, she has broadened her expertise by immersing herself in the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) space. She passionately partners with organizations, striving to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion at the highest level. Her commitment to these principles is evident in her dedication to sourcing diverse talent pools, ensuring the representation and inclusion of traditionally marginalized groups in top-level leadership roles. Rhonda's expansive career and diverse expertise highlight her as a powerful player in the executive search and business development industry.
Clifton Richardson
Senior Client Partner
Clifton has over a decade of experience in sales, recruiting, and client-focused roles. He believes in building lasting relationships, making him a trusted advisor to top executives. He's especially skilled in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
Clifton has worked with a wide range of clients. These include growing start-ups, pre-IPO companies ready for success, and Fortune 500 leaders. He's worked across many sectors like Technology, Healthcare, Financial Services, Manufacturing, Education, Food and Beverage, Media and Entertainment, Nonprofits, and Construction. This broad experience helps him understand his clients' unique challenges. He's great at creating custom solutions to overcome these hurdles.
Before joining Bonn Search Partners, Clifton was a Director of Partnerships at Mogul. There, he built strong relationships with top executives from famous companies like Warner Music Group, Dentsu, Consigli, Tommy Bahama, Henry Schein, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, The Honest Company, and many Fortune 50-1000 companies. His work went beyond DEI executive and board search services. He also implemented advanced talent acquisition software solutions. Clifton's strategic thinking was key in improving sales operations, creating successful go-to-market strategies, and running powerful marketing campaigns.
Clifton is dedicated to helping organizations succeed. He believes that a company's success is directly tied to empowering its people. This belief drives him to consistently look for ways to support teams, promote inclusivity, and make a positive impact.
Clifton is a graduate of Wilkes University and a former college basketball player. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration, specializing in Management.
Our Mission
Leaders in Modern Executive Search
Our mission is to connect companies with the leaders they need to change the way they do business.
Creating opportunities in executive roles for those who have traditionally been marginalized sets us apart. When you partner with us, you're joining a movement.
Join us in rewriting the narrative of leadership. From boardrooms to executive suites, our relentless pursuit of diversity and inclusion propels organizations toward exponential growth and transformation. We are the bridge that connects visionary leaders with companies ready to embrace change and embrace their full potential.
Our Beliefs
Equity and Inclusion in Hiring for Successful Leadership Teams
We believe that a strong and comprehensive leadership team is essential to building successful companies and driving innovation in today's fast-paced business environment. As a minority-owned executive search firm, we are uniquely positioned to provide a fresh perspective on executive search and bring a new level of efficiency and adaptability to all industries.
"Bonn Search Partners' dedication to inclusivity and meticulous search process led to exceptional results in placing our CFO, who not only possesses exceptional financial acumen but also brings a unique perspective to our team."
Victor, CEO at Medical Manufacturing Company