Brian McGowan
Managing Partner
Global Healthcare Life Sciences Practice Leader
Brian McGowan is a managing partner at ZRG Partners, based in Atlanta, where he leads the firm’s Global Health practice. With nearly 30 years of experience in executive search and industry leadership, Brian partners with clients to deliver impactful leadership solutions, guiding organizations through growth, transformation, and strategic change. His consultative approach focuses on building high-performing executive teams that drive immediate and lasting results.
Over the course of his career, Brian has led over 900 senior-level search engagements across the globe, serving a diverse portfolio of clients—from Fortune 500 corporations to emerging, equity-backed enterprises. Prior to joining ZRG, he oversaw Southeast operations for a global executive search firm and held partner roles at both Korn Ferry and Spencer Stuart.
Before entering executive search, Brian spent 14 years in the consumer-packaged goods sector, holding senior marketing and business development roles at The Coca-Cola Company and Campbell Soup Company. Known for his entrepreneurial mindset, he successfully launched and commercialized two startup ventures and built a track record for creating new growth channels, products, and market strategies.
Brian holds an MBA from the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University and a bachelor’s degree from Grove City College. He is actively engaged in the greater Atlanta community, supporting local athletics, the arts, and nonprofit organizations. Brian and his wife, Christine, live in Atlanta and are proud parents of five sons.
