CHICAGO (APRIL 22, 2025) – DHR Global is pleased to announce that Grant Zallis, Founder and CEO of Illuma Search Partners, has joined the firm as Managing Partner, Emerging Technology. This strategic partnership brings Illuma’s exceptional track record in emerging tech and its impressive client base of venture- and private equity-backed companies into the DHR platform. It combines DHR’s global reach, technology focus, and partner community with Illuma’s hands-on, results-driven approach to executive search.
“Joining DHR Global is an exciting opportunity to combine our combined strengths and deliver even greater value to our clients,” Zallis said. “DHR’s mission to provide unparalleled executive search services aligns perfectly with my commitment to client success. Together, we’ll continue to drive innovation and excellence in leadership hiring.”
Zallis began his career as a C-level executive, serving as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Human Resources Officer for venture-backed companies. With firsthand experience leading teams through periods of transformation, he brings an operator’s perspective to every search. In 2018, Zallis founded Illuma Search Partners and served as its CEO for seven years. Together with a team of exceptional partners, he built Illuma into a boutique firm recognized for its business-focused approach to executive search. The move to DHR allows Grant and the Illuma team to continue offering trusted, expert-led search while expanding its reach and resources through a global platform.
Based in Chicago, Zallis has a proven track record of helping companies hire transformational leaders who drive growth and scalability. He’s led hundreds of executive searches, with a strong emphasis on CEO, revenue, technology, and product leadership roles.
Zallis specializes in working with venture- and private equity-backed technology companies experiencing high growth or transformation. He begins each search with a consultative discovery process to ensure alignment among leadership around the hire – an approach that consistently results in placements that deliver enduring results.
A graduate of George Washington University, Zallis is also a guest lecturer at the Booth and Kellogg business schools. Throughout his career, he’s excelled as a C-Level executive and search leader, helping startups grow by matching the right talent with the right organizations to achieve their full potential.