Kiel Towns
Managing Director
Kiel Towns joined ZRG in 2023 as Managing Director and senior member of the Aerospace, Defense, and Government Services (ADGS) practice. He works closely with ADGS leaders as a trusted advisor to recruit, assess, and develop top talent across the United States. Kiel brings a unique perspective to the firm, having been the end-user for his clients’ products and services prior to his career in search. He is based in the Washington, DC, metropolitan area.
Previously, Kiel led the North American Aerospace, Defense, and Government Services practice at another boutique executive search firm. Across his career, he has successfully placed top talent in both private and public companies at the Board and C-suite levels.
Earlier, after serving in worldwide operational assignments as a U.S. Army Helicopter Pilot and Aviation Officer, Kiel worked at PwC, advising F100 companies on business strategies and operations. He began his search career at Russell Reynolds before joining Raines International and leading the Washington, DC, office.
Kiel supports his clients through complex and evolving environments. His primary expertise is within the Defense and Aviation markets, with a particular focus on MRO Operations and Space Systems.
He is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point.
Kiel is an avid outdoors enthusiast and soccer fan. In his spare time, he and his family are typically being pulled on a leash by their German Shepherd, Chopper.
