Kristen brings over a decade of expertise in technology and digital executive search to the Ksquared Team. She specializes in identifying and securing senior leaders for Fortune 500 companies, high-growth firms, and private equity-backed organizations, with a particular focus on placing executives who can navigate complex regulatory, operational, and growth challenges.

Kristen is known for her ability to design creative recruitment strategies that uncover hard-to-find talent in competitive, highly technical markets. Her commitment to diversity and cultural fit in every search ensures that placements not only meet technical requirements but also align with organizational values and long-term objectives.

Before joining Ksquared Search, Kristen specialized in technology searches at Caldwell, working with both Fortune 500 and private equity/venture capital-backed companies. She also spent four years at Korn Ferry executing C-suite searches across industries at the intersection of technology. Her experience includes helping global companies strengthen critical functions by placing executives in roles that directly address their most pressing business challenges.

Kristen holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Economics and Finance from Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut.

Mark Rounds – Managing Principal, Financial Services Practice

Mark Rounds has been an integral part of Ksquared Search for 16 years, playing a pivotal role in establishing the firm as a leader in financial services executive search. Since joining the team, Mark has built and led our Data, Digital, and Analytics Practice while developing deep expertise across Financial Services, Technology, Retail, and Management Consulting sectors. He specializes in placing transformative leaders in complex roles spanning product management, payments, global transaction banking, and retail banking/lending for Fortune 500 companies and private equity firms. 

Mark’s strategic approach combines creative problem-solving with extensive market knowledge, enabling him to identify leaders with translational skills and global experience who drive meaningful organizational transformation. His long-standing partnerships with marquee clients, including American Express, Wells Fargo, Walmart, and Lending Club, reflect his commitment to delivering exceptional results and building lasting relationships. Mark’s promotion to Managing Principal recognizes his instrumental role in growing Ksquared’s Financial Services Practice and his continued dedication to excellence in executive search.