Reimagining Executive Search, One Relationship at a Time
By Acadia Munari, Head of Marketing & Branding
Darci Galvin, Senior Vice President of Client Relations at Nexus Search Partners
Employee Spotlight: Darci Galvin
When Darci Galvin stepped into her first analyst role at Spencer Stuart, she didn’t know she was embarking on a two-decade journey that would shape how some of the most influential private equity firms build their leadership teams. What she did know was that she was drawn to the complexity and impact of the work—and to the challenge of building something that lasts.
That common denominator of building has stuck with her ever since.
Today, as Senior Vice President of Client Relations at Nexus Search Partners, Darci brings a rare blend of operational rigor, strategic clarity, and client empathy to the fast-moving world of executive search. Her presence at Nexus reflects a shared belief in what’s possible when relationships drive the work, not process alone.
“I wasn’t actively looking for a new role when I met Thadd,” she recalls. “But it was clear from our first conversation that Nexus was different. It wasn’t just about better outcomes. It was about doing the work in a better way.”
A Trusted Partner
In a sector often criticized for its transactional nature, Darci’s approach is refreshingly human and deeply intentional. She’s built a reputation among private equity clients for guiding searches that not only identify talent but unlock long-term value. For Darci, it starts with understanding the full context: the business model, the team dynamics, the unspoken expectations.
“Too much of executive search gets reduced to a checklist,” she shares. “At Nexus, we take the time to understand the ‘real ask’: what this role needs now, but also what it will need as the business scales.”
This attention to nuance isn’t just a value. It’s a competitive advantage. With PE timelines growing tighter and leadership expectations rising, the cost of a misaligned hire is too high. Clients don’t just need a slate. They need a search partner who sees around corners.
“We’re built for that level of complexity,” Darci says. “Carve-outs, transformations, and high-growth environments are where Nexus thrives. We bring precision and partnership, not just process.”
Leadership Rooted in Empathy and Access
Darci’s experience has shown her what good looks like and what’s often missing. That includes the industry’s promises around creating access for talent from all backgrounds.
“There are a lot of firms that say they value inclusive leadership, but delivering on that promise takes extra effort,” Darci reflects. “Nexus doesn’t just talk about access. We do the work to create it.”
As a minority-owned firm, Nexus is intentional about building teams that reflect a diversity of backgrounds, lived experiences, and leadership styles. For Darci, it’s a point of alignment and pride.
“The bulk of our team is either diverse or women, and that shows up in the work we do each day,” she shares. “We challenge each other. We challenge our clients. And we do so with humility. That alignment of ambition and integrity really matters to me.”
Members of the Nexus team attend the 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, NC. Pictured from left, Thadd Jones, Darci Galvin, Sam Worobec, and Adonai Aloma.
High-Touch in a High-Stakes Industry
Ask Darci what makes her work meaningful, and she’ll tell you it’s the relationships. Not just with clients, but with candidates.
“Candidates are clients, too,” she shares. “If we’re doing our job well, we’re creating a lasting fit for the individual and the business.”
For her, “high-touch” isn’t about frequent updates or polished presentations. It’s about showing up when it matters, asking the tough questions, and helping clients make the call, even when the decision is hard.
“Our goal is to be the advisor clients rely on in critical moments,” she shares. “It’s about being someone our clients want in the room for tough conversations.”
Why Now, Why Nexus?
In many ways, Darci’s decision to join Nexus is a reflection of her own evolution as a leader. After years inside large firms, she was ready for something more entrepreneurial. Something that felt aligned.
“We’re building something that’s responsive to how the market is changing,” she shares. “We’re really listening to what our clients want versus sharing a fixed process and product. Most importantly, we are doing so with the right people. It’s the kind of environment where you can really make an impact.”
At Nexus, she’s found a place to lead, shape, and continue building. Not just for the firm’s clients, but for the future of executive search itself.
Thinking About What’s Next?
Behind every successful placement, every strong client relationship, and every high-impact leader we deliver, there’s a team of dedicated professionals making it happen.
At Nexus, we believe in showing up for our people the same way we show up for our clients: with clarity, consistency, and care. That’s why we offer comprehensive benefits that support your whole self:
Healthcare, dental, and vision coverage
401(k) with company match
Paid time off and holidays
Professional development support
We’re not just building a company. We’re building a culture. One that honors talent, rewards integrity, and supports the people who power our mission.
If that sounds like the kind of place you’d thrive, we’d love to connect.