Seasoned operator and executive search leader brings deep P&L and talent advisory experience to the firm’s Industrial Practice
January 16, 2026 (King of Prussia, PA) — JM Search, the leading retained executive search firm for private equity and other growth-oriented private and public organizations, today announced that Ash Kolady has joined the firm as Partner within its Industrial Practice.
Ash Kolady is a former COO of a diversified industrial company and brings real-world P&L leadership and hands-on operational experience to help assess and recruit talent. He began his career as an engineer at General Motors and later led multiple functional leadership roles at Eaton Corporation. He went on to lead Corporate Development at AZZ Incorporated, overseeing the rollup of hot-dip galvanizing businesses, and later served as COO for a portfolio of product and services companies. Prior to joining JM Search, Ash covered the industrial segment at Egon Zehnder and True Search.
“We’re thrilled to have Ash join our expanding team,” said Jim McGinley, Managing Partner at JM Search. “Ash brings a rare blend of operational leadership and executive search experience. His background as a COO, engineer, and corporate development leader gives him first-hand insight into scaling industrial businesses and creating value in private equity environments.”
“I’m excited to join JM Search and be part of a firm with such a strong reputation for partnership and industry specialization,” said Kolady. “Having spent my career leading and scaling industrial businesses, I deeply appreciate JM Search’s focus on understanding what it truly takes to build effective leadership teams. I’m looking forward to working with our clients to help them assess and recruit leaders who can drive meaningful value creation.”
Kolady’s addition reflects JM Search’s continued investment in industry and functional specialization. Over the past year, the firm has welcomed 19 new Partners and Principals, further expanding its ability to support clients navigating transformation, growth, and value creation. For more information about JM Search, please visit our website.