About Ascend Executive Search
Experience. Relationships. Results.
National Reach, Boutique Attention
With offices in Houston, Texas, and Rochester, New York, we combine the personalized attention of a boutique search firm with the resources and reach of a national recruiting network.
Locations
Houston, TX | Rochester, NY | Nationwide
Traditional Expertise. Modern Technology.
We combine decades of executive recruiting experience with modern research tools and AI-assisted recruiting technology to identify, evaluate, and engage exceptional candidates.
Our expertise includes Construction, Engineering, and AI/Technology, along with a broad range of executive, professional, and specialized recruiting disciplines.
Technology helps us expand our reach and work more efficiently. But the relationships, judgment, discretion, and personal attention that define a successful search remain at the heart of everything we do.
A Commitment to Confidentiality
Executive recruiting often involves sensitive business decisions and career considerations. We approach every engagement with professionalism, discretion, and respect for the confidentiality of both our clients and candidates.
The People Behind Ascend
Leadership Team
Our leadership team brings extensive experience in executive search, talent acquisition, and business consulting. We believe the strongest recruiting partnerships are built on trust, industry knowledge, and personal relationships.
Scott Whipkey
CEO
Scott brings nearly 30 years of executive search experience, having placed hundreds of executives with organizations worldwide. An entrepreneur and longtime recruiting industry leader, he founded Headhounds, Inc. and Career Concepts, building both into multimillion-dollar businesses. His approach combines deep industry knowledge, trusted relationships, and modern recruiting technology to help clients identify exceptional leadership talent.
Cathy White
Director, Executive Search
Prior to joining Ascend, Cathy served as Managing Partner at PSC Recruiting in Pittsburgh. She brings extensive recruiting and business experience, with expertise spanning Engineering, Construction, Finance, and Legal. Her approach emphasizes understanding each client's unique needs, building lasting relationships, and identifying talent that delivers long-term value.