Gulf Elite and Kerning Merge to Form Highphen: A New Force in Middle East Executive Search

In a significant development for the Middle East and GCC human resources industry, Gulf Elite and Kerning have announced their merger to form Highphen, a new powerhouse in executive search and recruitment. This strategic union, which took place in 2023, aims to redefine HR consulting in the region by combining Gulf Elite's deep market knowledge with Kerning's innovative methodologies.

Gulf Elite, established in 2009, has built a strong reputation as a premier executive search firm with a profound understanding of the local market. Founded by Khalid AlKhudairi, the company has been known for its values centered around caring, communication, ownership, and trust. Over the past decade, Gulf Elite has been instrumental in filling key leadership roles and driving transformational strategies across the Middle East.

On the other hand, Kerning, founded in 2021 by George Aoun, brought a fresh perspective to executive search and leadership consulting. With a focus on talent management, organizational transformation, and the use of cutting-edge technologies, Kerning quickly established itself as a leader in HR consulting and recruitment for various industries, including FMCG, healthcare, construction, and hospitality.

The merger of these two companies into Highphen represents a significant step forward in addressing the evolving needs of businesses in the Middle East and GCC. By combining their strengths, Highphen is poised to deliver unparalleled value to clients seeking comprehensive recruitment and talent management solutions tailored to the region's unique requirements.

In 2024, Highphen expanded its service offerings by launching Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) services. This new initiative provides clients with custom recruitment solutions designed to streamline hiring processes and improve operational efficiency. The move demonstrates Highphen's commitment to innovation and meeting the changing demands of the market.

Furthermore, Highphen's partnership with the Top Employers Institute in Saudi Arabia underscores its dedication to delivering world-class recruitment services in the Middle East. This collaboration is expected to enhance the company's ability to identify and nurture top talent in the region.

Recognizing the growing importance of sustainability in business, Highphen has also embarked on sustainability hiring projects. This initiative aligns recruitment processes with the increasing demand for environmentally responsible practices, reflecting the company's forward-thinking approach to talent acquisition.

The formation of Highphen is not just a merger of two companies; it represents a fusion of expertise, innovation, and regional insight. Khalid AlKhudairi, founder of Gulf Elite, brings extensive experience in leading transformational projects across the Middle East, with a focus on operational excellence and people-centered leadership. His background, including membership in the Misk Leaders 2030 program and an Executive MBA from IE Business School, contributes significantly to Highphen's strategic direction.

George Aoun, the founder of Kerning, complements this with his proven track record in transforming organizations through talent supply chain management and operations. His diverse industry expertise makes him a valuable asset in driving organizational transformation and business development initiatives at Highphen.

As Highphen moves forward, the company remains committed to embracing new technologies and methodologies to enhance its services. The merger has not only strengthened the firm's ability to meet local needs but has also enhanced its global reach through strategic partnerships with industry leaders such as Beaumont Group and Odgers Berndtson.

For HR professionals and business leaders in the Middle East and GCC, the emergence of Highphen represents a significant development in the executive search and recruitment landscape. The company's comprehensive approach to talent management, combined with its deep understanding of regional dynamics, positions it as a valuable partner for organizations seeking to navigate the complexities of talent acquisition and management in a rapidly evolving business environment.

As businesses in the region continue to face challenges in attracting and retaining top talent, Highphen's innovative solutions and extensive expertise are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the future of executive search and recruitment across the Middle East and GCC. HR professionals and business leaders looking to stay ahead in the competitive talent market would