Forbes named Boyden Canada the No. 5 executive recruiting firm in its 2026 rankings. Regional Managing Partner Brent Cameron highlighted the importance of human judgment, trust, and relationships in executive search, despite the growing use of AI.
Kate Ralston contributes specialized expertise in a range of industries with a focus on not-for-profit and social impact, playing an active role in all aspects of search mandates. She is a strong relationship builder and communicator, dedicated to connecting people and organizations and delivering positive experiences. She is also committed to promoting inclusive search strategies and processes.
Professional Focus
- More than seven years’ experience in executive search and recruitment
- Involved in searches for senior executives and other leadership roles in the public and private sectors
- Successful track record in a range of industries with specialization in not-for-profit, social impact, and higher education
- Proficient in all aspects of the search process: strategy development, research, candidate sourcing and assessment, project management, referencing, and reporting
- Member of Boyden Canada’s National DEI Leadership Committee
Business Expertise
- Promoted from Associate at Boyden, and previously from Project Coordinator
- Project Manager at a prominent international executive search firm based in Canada
- Special Projects Manager for a Canadian PPE manufacturer; managed website redesign, creation of e-commerce platform, market research and other projects
- Senior Administrative Assistant at the Health Services Executive (HSE), administrative arm of Ireland’s public health services, based in Dublin
- Earlier roles in sales and administration
Additional Expertise
- Not-for-Profit
- Social Impact
- Higher Education
- Arts & Culture
- Public Sector
- Communications
- Human Resources
- Board Services
Education & Certifications
- Bachelor’s degree from University of Ottawa
In the competitive realm of global agribusiness, our client required a transformative COO to enhance operational efficiency and spearhead growth. Here, we share how Boyden identified and secured the ideal candidate, driving innovation and sustainability in a rapidly evolving industry.
Boyden partnered with a leading sovereign wealth fund to place a senior lawyer for UK and European investments, strengthening governance, risk management, and long-term growth.
Boyden partners with a leading private credit and alternative investment manager to appoint a Head of Valuation, strengthening governance, regulatory oversight, and valuation excellence across a complex credit portfolio.
Healthcare transformation demands more than change. It requires leaders who can sequence change, protect patient care, and align boards.
Featuring Marie-Hélène Gaudreault, Leader in Boyden’s Social Impact Practice
A family enterprise approaching its first generational transition found leadership fragmented across sibling-led divisions. Growth was possible, but cohesion was not guaranteed. By introducing independent executive leadership, the family gained clarity, strengthened governance, and set a foundation for long-term continuity. Here’s how unified leadership replaced complexity.
Featuring Marie-Hélène Gaudreault, Leader in Boyden’s Social Impact Practice
Boyden is pleased to share the appointment news of Andrew Clarke, a recruitment co-led by Catherine Van Alstine, Ron Burkholder, Nicole Bendaly, Glenn Eberth and Mackenzie Jones
Contact Kate Ralston today and let's get started