Highphen Emerges as Middle East's Premier Executive Search Firm Following Gulf Elite and Kerning Merger

In a significant development for the Middle East's executive search and recruitment industry, Gulf Elite and Kerning have merged to create Highphen, a new powerhouse in talent management solutions. This strategic union, which took place in 2023, brings together Gulf Elite's decade-long market expertise and Kerning's innovative methodologies to offer comprehensive recruitment and talent management services tailored to the unique needs of the Middle East and GCC regions.

The formation of Highphen represents a major shift in the regional HR landscape, promising to deliver enhanced value to both public and private sector organizations. Gulf Elite, established in 2009, has built a strong reputation for its deep understanding of local markets and its commitment to values such as caring, communication, ownership, and trust. Kerning, founded more recently in 2021, has quickly made a name for itself by leveraging cutting-edge technologies and focusing on organizational transformation.

The merger addresses a growing demand for sophisticated talent management solutions in a rapidly evolving regional economy. As businesses in the Middle East and GCC continue to expand and diversify, the need for expert guidance in executive search and recruitment has never been more critical. Highphen's combined resources and expertise position it uniquely to meet these challenges, offering services that range from executive search to comprehensive talent management strategies.

One of the most notable developments following the merger is Highphen's launch of Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) services in 2024. This offering provides clients with custom recruitment solutions designed to streamline hiring processes and improve operational efficiency—a crucial advantage in today's competitive business environment. Additionally, Highphen's partnership with the Top Employers Institute in Saudi Arabia underscores its commitment to delivering world-class recruitment services in the region.

The company's focus on sustainability hiring projects is particularly noteworthy, aligning with the growing global emphasis on environmental responsibility. This initiative not only demonstrates Highphen's forward-thinking approach but also positions it as a valuable partner for organizations looking to integrate sustainability into their core business practices.

Highphen's global reach has been significantly enhanced through strategic partnerships with industry leaders such as Beaumont Group and Odgers Berndtson. These collaborations extend the firm's capabilities beyond the Middle East, offering clients access to a broader pool of international talent and expertise.

The leadership behind Highphen brings a wealth of experience and vision to the new entity. Khalid AlKhudairi, founder of Gulf Elite, has a proven track record in leading transformational projects across the Middle East. His focus on operational excellence and people-centered leadership, combined with his extensive boardroom experience and Executive MBA from IE Business School, provides Highphen with strong strategic direction. George Aoun, founder of Kerning, contributes his expertise in talent supply chain management and operations across various industries, making him a valuable advisor to top executives in the region.

As Highphen moves forward, its commitment to embracing new technologies and methodologies in talent management positions it at the forefront of the industry. The company's focus on delivering top-tier talent solutions is expected to play a crucial role in helping organizations across the Middle East and GCC achieve their transformation strategies and drive sustainable growth.

The emergence of Highphen as a leader in executive search and recruitment is likely to have far-reaching implications for businesses operating in the region. As companies continue to navigate complex economic landscapes and pursue ambitious growth strategies, access to top-tier talent and expert HR consulting services will be more critical than ever. Highphen's comprehensive approach to talent management, combined with its deep understanding of local markets and global best practices, makes it a valuable partner for organizations looking to build strong, adaptable, and forward-thinking teams.

In conclusion, the formation of Highphen through the merger of Gulf Elite and Kerning represents a significant milestone in the Middle East's executive search and recruitment industry. As the region continues to evolve and grow, Highphen's innovative approach to talent management is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of businesses across the Middle East and GCC.