Change of leadership at Society

Tanya Stevens steps up as Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Society’s founder, Simon Lucas, who remains with the firm to focus on client work.

Society places Board and leadership changemakers into impactful roles for purpose driven education institutions, commercial entities, and non-profits. The business stands apart for its inclusive approach, its diverse and global appointment roster, and its commitment to delivering positive client and candidate experiences. It became a B Corporation in 2019, solidifying its long-standing ‘triple bottom line’ approach.

Tanya joined Society in 2013 to launch and scale its successful Not-for-Profit Practice, before expanding her leadership remit as the firm’s Head of Consulting in 2022. Widely respected in the market for both her strong search track record and collaborative approach, Tanya brings seasoned but fresh eyes to Society’s next growth chapter.

Tanya remarked:

“I work with a resourceful, intelligent and committed team at Society, and together we’re excited to grow our search portfolio. Finding C-level, middle leadership and Board talent is hard, and we’re a trusted advisor for our clients as they consider what’s fit for purpose in their hires. Then we deliver the goods, whether appointing a University Council Member, a hotel General Manager or a charity CEO. It’s an honour to be passed the baton from Simon, who has built us strong foundations. I’m happy that we’ll continue to work closely together as he shifts focus onto client partnerships.

If you’re looking for a search partner that holds results, inclusion and partnership in equal esteem, we should be talking.”

Simon co-founded Society in 2010, having previously worked for the executive search firm Perrett Laver. He has led the business through its start-up phase, and its subsequent international expansion, as well as through B Corp certification and the challenges of COVID. Although he will remain a director and shareholder of Society, he will now focus on leading a cross-sector search portfolio and personally overseeing many of the firm’s most prominent assignments.

Speaking about the transition, Simon commented:

“I love this business, I’m proud of what we’re building, and I’m excited about our future. Whilst I want to remain a part of that future, I don’t want to fall into the classic ‘founder trap’ of failing to recognise when the time is right to let go. Now feels like the moment for new leadership. Tanya and I have worked together for a decade. She knows the company inside-out and is the perfect person to take us forward. For my part, I’m excited to get back to being a full-time headhunter again. I plan to take everything I’ve learned over 13 years as a Chief Executive, and apply it to the endlessly fascinating challenge of finding great leaders for our inspiring clients.”