Meeting Ian Brenner: Visionary Connector of Talent and Business
Stepping out of the subway and onto the lively streets of downtown Manhattan, I make my way to the Woolworth Building. As I ascend to the top floors, offering a stunning view of the New York skyline. It’s here that I meet Ian Brenner — a leader with a global perspective and a deep understanding of human capital strategy. Ian is a connector, having worked across diverse industries and continents. His approach is built on trust and long-term relationships.
We order a coffee, and after some small talk, I ask him, “Ian, you’ve had an incredible journey from South Africa to London and now to leading initiatives at B. Riley Farber. How has your international background shaped your approach to leadership and the way you connect talent with companies?”
Ian takes a sip from his coffee, considering the question before answering. “Growing up in South Africa, I was immersed in a rich cultural landscape that taught me resilience and adaptability. That experience shaped how I approach leadership — recognizing that leadership isn’t universal. London, with its global focus and emphasis on reinvention, taught me that organizations must continuously evolve to stay relevant. Both environments showed me that leadership is about understanding people, connecting them, and aligning their strengths to achieve a common goal.”
You’ve been instrumental in building B. Riley Farber’s executive search practice. What do you believe sets your approach apart, and how does it reflect your broader vision for the future of leadership?
Ian’s expression shifts as he becomes more animated. “What sets our approach apart is the emphasis on long-term partnerships rather than transactional relationships. It’s not enough to place someone in a role; it’s about ensuring that individual aligns with the company’s future direction and adds value from day one. My vision for the future of leadership is a shift towards more human-centered models — where empathy, adaptability, and a commitment to personal growth are key pillars.”
With your vast experience working across multiple industries, how do you see the future of talent acquisition evolving?
Ian pauses briefly, then continues, “The future of talent acquisition is shifting toward cultural fit and leadership potential. Companies will need to look beyond technical skills and focus on values alignment and emotional intelligence. One of the biggest challenges will be retaining talent. Employees are increasingly looking for meaning in their work and alignment with their personal values. To succeed, companies will need to provide opportunities for growth, inclusion, and a sense of purpose.”
As a connector of talent and business, what is the one thing you believe is essential to building a successful leadership team?
Ian reflects for a moment before responding. “Building a successful leadership team starts with creating an environment where trust can thrive. When there’s trust, collaboration becomes effortless, innovation flourishes, and the team can take risks and achieve great things together. My job is to ensure that the right individuals with the right values and vision come together to build that trust. Once that foundation is in place, the possibilities are endless.”
As our conversation draws to a close, I am left with a clear picture of Ian Brenner — a visionary focused on the human side of business, building connections that foster success, and shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
Maarten Schaefer
Chief Storyteller CoolBrands People
Connect with Ian Brenner on LinkedIn
