Stela Ouzounova is a results-focused professional with extensive expertise in assessing and recruiting exceptional leaders. Her international track record of 20 years in executive search and HR demonstrates her ability to connect high-performing individuals and build enduring partnerships. Additional background in coaching gives her insight into candidates’ potential to make an impact.

Professional Focus

  • 20 years’ experience in executive search and recruitment, human resources, leadership assessment and development
  • International/cross-border executive search and leadership assessment in pharmaceuticals, energy, finance & banking, technology
  • Develops and executes talent acquisition strategies in collaboration with Managing Partners
  • Published numerous articles, papers and research reports and gave TV and radio interviews on topics related to HR, leadership, Bulgarian labour market and business environment; main editor and co-author of the book Wise Leaders Today
  • Fluent in Bulgarian and English, with good command of Russian and basic German

Business Expertise

  • Freelance Researcher/Consultant with Boyden Bulgaria
  • Leadership and business development roles with Equinox Partners coaching and development and Orfea Sonicentre
  • Partner and Executive Director with a global executive search firm, then-biggest in Bulgarian market; promoted from Head of Client Services, Bulgaria and Macedonia and Consultant/Senior Consultant; established new office in Macedonia and developed local team
  • Earlier experience as a foreign language trainer

Additional Expertise

  • Human Resources
  • Financial Services
  • Banking & Capital Markets
  • Energy
  • Technology

Education & Certifications

  • MBA from University of Lincoln, UK
  • MA in English & American Studies from University of Sofia
  • English & American Studies at University of Leeds, UK
  • Certified Thomas International Management System behavioural analyst
  • Certified CEB-SHL Assessment Consultant
  • Certified Intunity Coach
  • Certified Practitioner of Suggestopedia in English language teaching

Affiliations & Awards

  • Member, Bulgarian Human Resources Management Association
  • Fellow, US German Marshall Fund (GMF) Fellowship Programme
  • Member, GMF Selection Committee for EMEA region

Contact Stela Ouzounova today and let's get started

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