Sam Walton has over a decade of executive search experience and has executed hundreds of complex searches nationwide, primarily in the not-for-profit, academic and broader public sector. She provides strategic counsel to boards and search committees, fosters high-trust relationships with clients and candidates, and is committed to championing equitable, inclusive and accessible search processes. 

Professional Focus

  • More than 10 years of experience in executive search at the national and international level
  • Specialized social impact expertise, with a track record of leadership appointments for academic, not-for-profit, healthcare, and purpose-driven organizations
  • Additional search experience in retail, real estate, and technology
  • Focus on governance, organizational effectiveness, leadership development, and diversity and inclusion

Business Expertise

  • Partner at a national executive recruitment firm specializing in the public, academic, and not‑for‑profit sectors; promoted from Principal role
  • Senior Consultant at an international executive search firm; focused on the not-for-profit and academic sectors
  • Associate at a leading professional services firm specializing in executive search and recruitment; focused on the not-for-profit, healthcare, and retail sectors
  • Began career as a Project Coordinator at a global executive search firm

Additional Expertise

  • Not-for-Profit
  • Higher Education
  • Healthcare
  • Social Impact
  • Public Sector
  • Governance
  • Board Services

Education & Certifications

  • Bachelor’s degree (BFA) from Toronto Metropolitan University
  • Certifications in AI Ethics and Governance, diversity & inclusion, and gender-based analysis
  • The HERizon Project, Women in Communications and Technology (2026)
  • All About Boards Series, Pillar Nonprofit Network (2025)
  • Board Fundamentals Program, Institute of Corporate Directors (2024)
  • Award of Achievement in Diversity and Inclusion, University of British Columbia (2022)

Affiliations & Awards

  • Mentor, Merit Bursary Award Program (2025-present)
  • Coach, Civic Action’s Diverse City Fellows Program (2024-2025)
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