Ian F. McCray, Principal, brings more than two decades of experience across higher education, nonprofit leadership, and executive search.

Ian returned to executive search in 2021 after a distinguished career in advancement and alumni engagement roles at institutions including Middlebury College, the University of Vermont Foundation, Bennington College, and the Shelburne Museum.

He partners with colleges, universities, and mission-driven organizations to recruit senior leaders across advancement, academic leadership, and executive roles. Ian’s background as a frontline fundraiser shapes his approach. He understands how leadership decisions connect to institutional strategy, donor engagement, and long-term sustainability. He has managed high-value prospect portfolios and led fundraising strategy, giving him a practical view of what effective leadership looks like in action. Earlier in his career, Ian worked in executive search with Diversified Search and Korn Ferry, focusing on senior appointments in higher education and healthcare.

Ian is based in Vermont, where he lives with his wife and children. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, skiing, golf, and ice hockey.