Gulf Elite and Kerning Merge to Create Highphen, Reshaping Executive Search in the Middle East

In a significant move that could reshape the executive search landscape in the Middle East and GCC, Gulf Elite and Kerning have merged to form Highphen. This strategic union, finalized in 2023, brings together Gulf Elite's decade-long market expertise and Kerning's innovative talent management approaches to create a powerhouse in recruitment and HR consulting.

Highphen's formation comes at a crucial time for the region's business sector, which is undergoing rapid transformation and facing evolving talent needs. The merger positions the new entity to address these challenges by offering comprehensive recruitment and talent management solutions tailored to the unique demands of both public and private sectors across the Middle East.

The combined strengths of Gulf Elite, founded in 2009 by Khalid AlKhudairi, and Kerning, established in 2021 by George Aoun, provide Highphen with a competitive edge. Gulf Elite's deep understanding of the local market and focus on operational execution complement Kerning's fresh approach to executive search and leadership consulting, which leverages cutting-edge technologies.

Highphen's launch of Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) services in 2024 marks a significant expansion of its offerings, providing clients with custom recruitment solutions designed to streamline hiring processes and improve operational efficiency. This move aligns with the growing demand for more sophisticated and tailored recruitment services in the region.

Furthermore, Highphen's partnership with the Top Employers Institute in Saudi Arabia underscores its commitment to delivering world-class recruitment services. This collaboration is likely to elevate recruitment standards and practices across the Middle East, benefiting both employers and job seekers.

The company's focus on sustainability hiring projects reflects a growing trend in the business world towards environmentally responsible practices. By aligning recruitment processes with sustainability goals, Highphen is positioning itself at the forefront of a critical shift in corporate priorities.

As the Middle East continues to diversify its economies and attract global talent, Highphen's emergence as a leader in executive search and recruitment could play a crucial role in shaping the region's business landscape. The company's ability to combine local insights with global best practices may prove instrumental in helping organizations navigate the complexities of talent acquisition and management in a rapidly evolving market.

The merger of Gulf Elite and Kerning into Highphen represents more than just a business consolidation; it signifies a potential paradigm shift in how executive search and recruitment are conducted in the Middle East. As businesses in the region seek to transform and grow, Highphen's comprehensive approach to talent management could be a key factor in their success, ultimately contributing to the broader economic development of the Middle East and GCC countries.