Dan Charney
President & CEO
As President and CEO of Direct Recruiters (DRI) and Managing Director and Board Member of Starfish Partners, Dan Charney has been a pivotal figure in elevating both organizations to new heights. Under his guidance, DRI and Starfish have burgeoned into a globally acclaimed, award-winning search firm and investment platform. Today, these entities boast a dynamic team of over 250 colleagues and manage hundreds of franchises worldwide.
With a career spanning over 25 years at Direct Recruiters, Dan’s journey through various roles within the company has equipped him with invaluable hands-on experience. This deep insight into the intricacies of executive search and talent management has been instrumental in shaping his strategic vision and operational excellence.
Dan’s thought leadership is frequently sought after by top-tier Human Capital and business journals. He is regarded as a go-to expert on topics such as succession planning, the impact of technology and AI on leadership, and the evolving landscape of talent acquisition and management.
In 2013, Dan was rightfully recognized as a part of the prestigious “Forty Under Forty” by Crain’s Cleveland Business Magazine, celebrating his significant contributions to the business community in Cleveland. His expertise is not only recognized in publications but also valued in professional circles where he is often invited to share his knowledge and strategies with other executive search firms nationwide, helping to elevate industry standards.
Dan holds a Bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University, reflecting his strong academic grounding which has supported his professional endeavors. Beyond his corporate responsibilities, he is actively involved in the community, serving on several nonprofit boards. This commitment underscores his dedication not just to business success but also to societal betterment.
Dan Charney remains a formidable leader in the executive search industry, continuously driving innovation and excellence. His leadership not only propels Direct Recruiters and Starfish Partners forward but also makes a significant impact on the broader industry and community. As the business landscape evolves, Dan’s foresight and adaptability position him, and the organizations he leads, at the forefront of change.
“I have been working with Direct Recruiters for about 15 years now, starting with Dan Charney and now Cherie Shepard. The transition of working with Dan to Cherie was seamless; Cherie picked up the standard that Dan had established and brings the same great attributes that he did. I have continued to work with Direct Recruiters over the years because they are easy to work with; they find candidates quickly, they’re very personable, quick to respond, and they always keep me in the loop as to progress. Most importantly though, is the effectiveness of the candidates Direct Recruiters brings to me. I would recommend Direct Recruiters to others essentially because the screening and recruiting process they use internally works. They deliver the bottom line, and that’s getting highly qualified candidates who are very effective in their position.”
Harry Piligian, Sales Director – Bizerba USA
“I came in contact with Dan Charney late in 2008. From the start, he was concerned with my well being and made sure that any position we discussed was the right fit for me and my family. With Dan’s help I landed the job I was looking for and to no one’s surprise it’s a great fit. I highly recommend Dan and DRI.
Top qualities: Personable, Expert, High Integrity
Hired Dan as a Recruiter in 2008”
John Mardahl
“I have been very pleased with the search services of Direct Recruiters, Inc. and Dan Charney. Dan & I have a long history together and it’s a pleasure working with him. He is very engaging, timely and his follow-up is excellent. He presents qualified candidates in a quick manner, facilitates the meetings, and does a good job of bringing all parties together. With each search, Dan is consistent and persistent and gets the job done.”
Werner Heydlauf – Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Flexlink Systems, Inc.
“As the Vice-President of Sales and Marketing for a top specialty label company, my time is very valuable. Recently when our company needed to fill the position of Regional Account Manager, I contacted Direct Recruiters, Inc. and Dan Charney. Having had previous experience with DRI, I knew they would work efficiently and effectively on my behalf. Dan was a true professional and understood my needs. He was able to match the perfect candidate with our strict requirements and specifications. In addition, Dan’s follow-up efforts were great. He stayed on top of the situation, communicated the progress and accurately checked references saving me time and enabling me to focus on other business at hand.”
V.F. – VP Sales & Marketing, Leading Specialty Label Company
“Dan performed head and shoulders above other recruiters for me. Dan has the highest integrity and I would recommend him to anyone looking for talented employees.
Top qualities: Great Results, High Integrity, Creative”
Dave Lodwig
“I sent out an SOS to a colleague regarding an open Sales Rep position in Texas. He recommended that I contact Direct Recruiters and Dan Charney. I found Dan to be very knowledgeable and industry-savvy so that we didn’t have to start at ground zero. Within a few days, Dan located 5 qualified candidates available to interview. I found 4 of the 5 to be contenders but there was one in particular that stood out. She was a great match based on the chemistry of our company, job description and me! Because of Dan’s admirable efforts, industry knowledge and pleasant attitude, I will only contact him and Direct Recruiters for our future job openings.”
J.F. – Regional Sales Manager, High-end security badge access control company
“Dan and his team have provided FlexLink with exceptional service at all levels and within all divisions. They always conducted themselves with the utmost integrity and professionalism. The results were outstanding.
Top qualities: Great Results, On Time, High Integrity
Hired Dan as a Recruiter in 2008, and hired Dan more than once”
Paul Jarossy
“In the many years I have worked with Dan Charney at Direct Recruiters, Inc., I have come to think of him as an extension of our Human Resources department. Dan understands our business and does a great job presenting the top potential candidates. Dan is reliable, consistent, demonstrates high integrity and delivers on results. He has set the standard in what I now expect from any recruiting firm.”
Stacy Arney – Director of Human Resources, Videojet Technologies
