Dara Klein is an accomplished Executive Search leader and Board Advisor serving the financial services industry and growth company sectors. Dara is consistently recognized for her on-point expertise in talent assessment, as well as her keen understanding of multi-faceted cultures, and complex board dynamics, Dara leverages her experience in executive search and succession planning, to ensure optimal diversified leadership – driving growth, strategy and business transformation. As Managing Director of Kaplan Partners, a boutique retained executive search and board advisory firm, Dara is known as a confidant to CEOs and for her unique and trusted relationships with Boards of Directors and key executives. She combines exceptional listening skills with a thorough understanding of business strategy, growth expectations and technical requirements, to deliver honest, actionable feedback that consistently results in highly effective, culturally in-sync organizational success. Dara serves as a Co-Chair of the Advisory Council for the Women Business Collaborative (WBC). She is also a member of the Forum of Executive Women and serves on the Women in Leadership and Women on Boards committees. She is a national speaker on Board and CEO Succession including a podcast in partnership with Penn State University on Succession Planning. Dara is an advocate for the advancement of women and people of color and a committed mentor to men and women and the next generation of leaders. Dara began her career with Xerox Corporation where she progressed through the ranks, through her 10-year tenure, as a sales expert for Fortune 500 clients in financial services and government. She then directed marketing communications and branding strategies, in partnership with top U.S. banks, for Integrion Financial Network. Additionally, Dara worked with a start up before joining Kaplan Partners in 2004. Dara earned a B.S. in Marketing from Pennsylvania State University.