Boyden Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Boyden has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, healthcare, technology, marketing, finance, and administration.

Driven by a commitment to connecting great companies with great leaders, Boyden operates as a Global Boutique, merging localized expertise with worldwide capabilities in executive search, interim management, and leadership consulting to shape the future of talent advisory.

Leadership Roles at Boyden

  • Chairman and President and Chief Executive Officer (1986 - 1992) - Putney Westerfield
  • Partner. Healthcare and Life Sciences. Chief Executive Officer and Board Services - James Stonehouse
  • Chief Financial Officer - Victor Escandón
  • Chief Technology Officer - Gary Pikul
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Christopher Swee
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Ellen Kajioka
  • Putney Westerfield - Chairman and President and Chief Executive Officer (1986 - 1992)

    Putney Westerfield, the Chairman and President and Chief Executive Officer (1986 - 1992) at Boyden, directed the firm's strategic trajectory during a pivotal period. Westerfield's leadership focused on expanding the company's global footprint and solidifying its reputation as a premier talent advisory firm. Overseeing all major operational and strategic decisions, Westerfield ensured alignment with the firm's core mission of connecting exceptional leaders with leading organizations. This executive tenure involved navigating complex market dynamics and driving growth initiatives that positioned Boyden for sustained success. The responsibilities encompassed setting the overall vision and managing key stakeholder relationships, including the board and senior leadership team. Putney Westerfield's influence shaped the foundational principles of Boyden's client-centric approach and its commitment to delivering high-impact leadership solutions across diverse industries worldwide.

    James Stonehouse - Partner. Healthcare and Life Sciences. Chief Executive Officer and Board Services

    James Stonehouse, the Partner. Healthcare and Life Sciences. Chief Executive Officer and Board Services at Boyden, spearheads critical initiatives within the healthcare and life sciences sectors. Stonehouse directs executive search and leadership consulting engagements, focusing on identifying and placing top-tier talent that drives innovation and growth in these specialized fields. This leadership role involves close collaboration with boards of directors and C-suite executives to address complex talent challenges and strategic organizational needs. Overseeing the firm's offerings in board services, Stonehouse ensures that clients receive expert guidance on governance and executive appointments. The scope of responsibilities includes cultivating deep industry knowledge and leveraging extensive networks to connect clients with leaders capable of navigating the unique demands of the healthcare and life sciences markets. James Stonehouse's strategic oversight ensures Boyden's continued excellence in providing bespoke talent solutions that advance client objectives.

    Victor Escandón - Chief Financial Officer

    Victor Escandón, the Chief Financial Officer at Boyden, oversees the firm's financial operations and strategic fiscal planning. Escandón directs all aspects of financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, accounting, and financial reporting, ensuring robust fiscal health across the global organization. This critical role involves managing financial risks, optimizing capital allocation, and driving initiatives that enhance profitability and shareholder value. Collaborating with executive leadership, the Chief Financial Officer provides key financial insights to support strategic decision-making and business expansion efforts. Escandón's responsibilities also encompass ensuring compliance with all relevant financial regulations and standards across the diverse markets Boyden serves. Victor Escandón's financial acumen and strategic oversight are fundamental to sustaining Boyden's growth and operational excellence worldwide.
    Victor Escandón

    Gary Pikul - Chief Technology Officer

    Gary Pikul, the Chief Technology Officer at Boyden, architects the firm's technological vision and infrastructure. Pikul drives the integration of advanced digital solutions to enhance operational efficiency and client service delivery across all Boyden's global operations. This role involves overseeing the development and implementation of innovative technology strategies that support executive search, interim management, and leadership consulting services. Pikul's responsibilities extend to ensuring the security and scalability of the firm's technology platforms, safeguarding sensitive client data while enabling seamless global connectivity. Collaborating with cross-functional teams, the Chief Technology Officer identifies emerging technological trends and assesses their potential to optimize business processes and client engagement. Gary Pikul's strategic direction ensures Boyden remains at the forefront of technological adoption within the talent advisory industry, enhancing its competitive edge and service capabilities worldwide.

    Christopher Swee - Chief Marketing Officer

    Christopher Swee, the Chief Marketing Officer at Boyden, directs the firm's global marketing and brand strategy. Swee oversees the development and execution of integrated marketing campaigns designed to elevate Boyden's market presence and attract new client engagements. This leadership position involves managing all aspects of brand communication, digital marketing, public relations, and content creation to articulate the firm's value proposition. Collaborating closely with business development and practice leaders, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures marketing efforts are aligned with strategic growth objectives and industry-specific needs. Swee's focus includes leveraging market insights to identify opportunities and enhance client acquisition and retention strategies. Christopher Swee's expertise in brand management and market positioning is critical to reinforcing Boyden's reputation as a premier leadership and talent advisory firm on a global scale.

    Ellen Kajioka - Chief Administrative Officer

    Ellen Kajioka, the Chief Administrative Officer at Boyden, manages the firm's extensive administrative functions and operational infrastructure. Kajioka directs the optimization of internal processes, human resources, and facilities management to ensure seamless day-to-day operations across Boyden's global network. This leadership role is pivotal in supporting the firm's strategic objectives by fostering an efficient and productive work environment for all employees. Overseeing key administrative departments, Kajioka ensures that policies and procedures are effectively implemented to support client service delivery and internal collaboration. The scope of responsibilities includes driving operational improvements and managing resources to enhance overall organizational effectiveness. Ellen Kajioka's dedication to operational excellence and administrative efficiency is crucial for maintaining Boyden's high standards of service and its capacity to serve clients worldwide.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Boyden Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Boyden?
    Boyden is led by Putney Westerfield (Chairman and President and Chief Executive Officer (1986 - 1992)), along with executives such as James Stonehouse (Partner. Healthcare and Life Sciences. Chief Executive Officer and Board Services) and Victor Escandón (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Boyden’s executive team?
    The executive team of Boyden includes leaders such as Putney Westerfield (Chairman and President and Chief Executive Officer (1986 - 1992)), James Stonehouse (Partner. Healthcare and Life Sciences. Chief Executive Officer and Board Services), Victor Escandón (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Boyden have?
    Boyden has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Boyden’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Boyden includes roles such as Chairman and President and Chief Executive Officer (1986 - 1992), Partner. Healthcare and Life Sciences. Chief Executive Officer and Board Services, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Chief Marketing Officer.