Epitome is a retained executive search firm focused on placing primarily Vice Presidents and C-level executives in Marketing, Finance and Strategy roles. We help companies find their ideal leadership talent.

“When our team talks about what motivates all of us it’s really about helping people.”
— Kristen Forti, Founder & CEO

We use a combination of traditional recruiting, networking and social media-driven marketing strategies to connect employers and executive-level candidates committed to bringing out the best in one another. We believe in the power of the perfect fit. Woman-owned and led, we value diverse leadership and we make it a priority in our work.

Let us help you to find the Epitome of what you’re looking for in your next executive!

What we bring to every search

We are true partners in every way. We act as an extension of the clients’ team. We are laser focused on our clients’ needs and iterate in partnership with them throughout the search to find the ideal talent. Don’t expect us to stay “in the box” though. Because of our depth of experience as former operators, it’s just as much art as science when it comes to our matchmaking.

We are transparent in all that we do; there are never any surprises. “Showing our work” is not something we’re afraid of because we have impressive information to share.

We know the business of people can be messy but we stay positive and move the ball forward. We face every challenge with optimism. We move fast and don’t waste our clients’ time. We are a unique blend of confident patience and aggressive action. Our job satisfaction is inextricably linked to your excitement for the future.

Featured Posts

Blog (INTERNAL ONLY)
"The opposite of anxious isn't calm, it's creative."
"The opposite of anxious isn't calm, it's creative."

This insight from Martha Beck, PhD—a Harvard-trained sociologist, world-renowned coach, and New York Times bestselling author—feels especially relevant as I continue building Epitome Executive Search in 2025. Creativity isn’t just a remedy for stress; it’s the spark that helps uncover untapped potential—our own personal genius.

She Stands Tall, Brave, and Unstoppable
She Stands Tall, Brave, and Unstoppable

This holiday season, our family had the joy of visiting New York City. One of the highlights was seeing my daughter pose confidently with the iconic Fearless Girl statue.

CELEBRATING 5 YEARS of EPITOME!
CELEBRATING 5 YEARS of EPITOME!

Founding and growing Epitome Executive Search has been the joy of my career. A sure bet? Nope. Challenging? Yep. A humbling teacher? Absolutely.

"Nurture your long-term self instead of your insatiable short-term self." - Jamie Varon
"Nurture your long-term self instead of your insatiable short-term self." - Jamie Varon

Seven years ago, to the day, I made a life and career-changing decision to leave a role and company that didn’t fit and pursue joining a startup tackling a cause near and dear to me.

Listen to the whispers.
Listen to the whispers.

When I tell people how I got into executive search, I always start by saying “there was a whisper in my ear about it for many, many years.”

I was listening to one of our client's Founders being interviewed
I was listening to one of our client's Founders being interviewed

I was listening to one of our client's Founders being interviewed about the incredible journey it took to get this consumer products business to where it is today: profitable, PE-sponsored, and thriving.

How do we go from ‘Strength to Strength’ as we progress in our careers and our lives?
How do we go from ‘Strength to Strength’ as we progress in our careers and our lives?

More and more frequently I hear: “I just want to do something meaningful in this next role or opportunity.” Arthur Brooks’ book “Strength to Strength” encapsulates a 7-year journey he went on to understand the underpinnings of making a successful transition in one’s career.

I started a business book club when I worked at Dunkin'​. Nerdy, I know.
I started a business book club when I worked at Dunkin'​. Nerdy, I know.

I was a good and disciplined student but never an academic geek. I’m definitely a business geek. The book club was spawned by a great leader, Jon Luther, who had taken over as CEO of the business and bought the book “Good to Great” by Jim Collins for the entire company.

Do not sit around while candidates collect offers
Do not sit around while candidates collect offers

We are negotiating an offer for a high-profile role with a candidate. An active candidate, we know we are competing for her against other employers. My client asked “doesn’t it make sense to let her get all of the offers in her processes and then decide? Then we’ll know she really wants us?” My answer is no.

I didn’t “fall into” recruiting. I chose executive search on purpose.
I didn’t “fall into” recruiting. I chose executive search on purpose.

I was reading the post of another search professional yesterday and she shared a VERY common line that you’ll hear in the industry: “I fell into search.” Every time I hear it, it sparks a guttural response inside of me!

We are a women-owned business enterprise certified by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Looking for something?