Chicago skyline

About Katalyst Group

At Katalyst Group, we believe that every successful placement begins with a genuine connection. As a relationship-driven recruiting agency, we specialize in executive search, direct hire recruitment, temporary staffing, and project-based staffing solutions that go far beyond filling roles—we’re here to create lasting impact. 

Whether we’re partnering with Chicago-based organizations in need of high-performance finance and accounting talent or guiding individuals through a confidential executive job search, our approach stays the same: to listen deeply, build trust, and deliver with purpose.

We’re proud to be a boutique executive recruiting firm headquartered in Chicago, with a growing presence throughout Illinois and nationwide. Our team includes expert headhunters and executive recruiters who bring a consultative approach to every engagement—whether you’re looking for C-suite leaders, interim project resources, or permanent placement services.

Katalyst Group provides full-service recruitment services to companies and professionals across finance, accounting, and HR. We deliver flexible hiring solutions including direct hire, temporary project staffing, and contract-to-hire placements. As a trusted staffing agency in Illinois, we also support companies nationwide with scalable solutions for remote hiring, interim leadership, and urgent business needs.

We talk to people every day—not just when there’s a job to fill—which gives us immediate access to top professionals, especially in high-demand fields. Our exclusive talent network includes professionals who work only with Katalyst Group and trust us to align them with career-defining opportunities.

  • Market Mastery: We understand the nuances of hiring in competitive sectors like finance and accounting in both Chicago and across the U.S. 
  • Specialized Services: From executive search and permanent job placement services to temporary project staffing, we offer customized solutions tailored to your needs. 
  • Regional and National Reach: Whether you’re seeking temporary accounting and finance staff in Illinois or a national executive search firm serving U.S.-based companies, we deliver with speed and precision. 
  • People-First Approach: Every job seeker and employer we serve experiences a thoughtful, human-centered process that leads to long-term success. 

Trusted Clients

merieux
golden apple
Dover
Northwestern Medicine
Regal Rexnord Logo
Start Early
katalyst

team

We’re a close-knit team with a shared vision: to help individuals and organizations grow in ways that matter. And when that right match is made—it’s more than a great hire—it’s a life changed for the better.  

Principal Kevin Kaye leads with a relationship-driven approach that’s been at the heart of Katalyst Group from day one. Kevin and his team of seasoned executive recruiters and staffing professionals bring decades of experience and deep cross- industry expertise. CFO, Laura Witter-Johnson, CPA, brings her accounting and financial insight and a steady, thoughtful perspective on what makes businesses thrive.  

Recruiters James Lewis, Erin Jewell, Christian Cañas, and Jeremy Blauser go beyond the resume to understand the whole person—what drives them, what matters most, and where they can truly shine. Director of Revenue, Jennifer Williams, adds strategic vision and energy through her sales leadership, and Mara Perlow, Director of Marketing and Communications, helps us stay connected and authentic with messaging that reflects who we are.