David S. Martin

David S. Martin, Managing Partner of Sterling Martin Associates, is based in the firm’s Washington, DC office. Since starting his executive search career in 1989, David has held senior-level positions with such global search firms as Korn/Ferry International and Boyden International. He has served in key roles launching and growing offices in Washington, DC, Atlanta, GA, and Irvine, CA.

Since 2000, David has focused his search work with clients in the association and nonprofit sector because of his passion, interest and experience with these organizations. Recent clients include such organizations as AARP, Mortgage Bankers Association and Independent Sector as well as social innovation organizations such as KaBOOM! Before 2000, he worked primarily with “blue chip” corporate clients such as The Coca-Cola Company, Evian Waters and Sara Lee Corporation.

He has conducted searches in a broad range of executive leadership positions at the “C-suite level” (President/CEO, Executive Director, Chief Information Officer, Chief Operating Officer, etc.) and also at the vice presidential level for positions in advocacy, programs, government relations, and development.

Through his extensive involvement as a Board member, search committee member and volunteer leader, he brings first-hand experience to the particular issues and unique challenges of nonprofits, professional and trade associations, and academic institutions in recruiting top executives.

David serves on the Board of Directors of Gifts In Kind International, a leading international nonprofit organization, where he is Vice-Chair of the Governance Committee. He also plays an active role as a member of the ASAE, The Center for Association Leadership. David regularly attends national conferences, workshops and learning labs to stay up-to-date on the most current issues facing nonprofit organizations. Recent conferences attended include Council on Foundations, BoardSource, Independent Sector and ASAE.

Prior to executive search, David worked in the corporate world for eight years. He held increasingly responsible sales and management roles for Georgia-Pacific Corporation at the organization’s Atlanta headquarters. He holds a B.A. from the University of Vermont.

Contact David: 202-327-5485 or dmartin@smartinsearch.com