Susan VanGilder brings more than three decades of executive search experience, specializing in identifying and recruiting leaders for diverse institutions in the education and nonprofit sectors across the United States and internationally. Through various leadership roles, she has served a pivotal role in founding and building Storbeck Search, now DSG Global’s Education practice, DSG | Storbeck.

Among Susan’s many searches have been those for presidents, provosts, vice presidents, and administrative and academic deans of colleges and universities, as well as senior leaders of museums, foundations, and other nonprofit organizations. She brings a knowledgeable and well-rounded perspective to the search process and is passionate about working with search committees to identify and come to consensus around leadership priorities.

Her experience living, working, and studying in Germany, Belgium, and Austria aids her in guiding clients in navigating the complexities of executive search on a global scale. This involves understanding different regions’ cultural nuances, legal considerations, and industry practices. An enthusiastic advocate for career advancement, Susan frequently volunteers to support aspiring academic administrators through speaking engagements and one-on-one coaching.

Recent clients include: Brown University, Carleton College, Haverford College, NYU Shanghai, University of Denver, University of Texas at Austin, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and Virginia Commonwealth University, among many others.

Susan previously worked in the education practices of A.T. Kearney and another international executive search firm. Susan’s prior work experience also includes various roles at the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), where she staffed its Commission on Opportunity and Equity and coordinated numerous career development conferences for college, university, and independent school advancement officers.

A strong advocate for voter engagement, Susan serves as an election official in her local community. Susan earned a B.A. in Germanic Languages and Literatures from The George Washington University.

Education

BA, Germanic Languages and Literature
The George Washington University

Academic Year Abroad
Universität Salzburg