Phil Menzel

Phil brings nearly thirty years of human capital experience to JM Search. Having been the top Human Resources executive for multiple multi-billion dollar businesses, Phil has recruited and led search committees for countless key executive hires, which enables him to view a search need through the lens of his clients. He leverages his decades of experience in corporate management to help clients strategically evaluate their executive leadership needs both short- and long-term, and ultimately build the best possible management teams.

Phil joined JM Search from Sears Holdings Corporation, where he led the Human Resources function for multiple business units as Vice President of Human Resources. At Sears, he managed several senior level executive searches and led multiple reorganizations of the Home Services, Supply Chain, Auto and the Retail Operations business units. Prior to Sears, Phil was the top Human Resources executive for the Fresh Bakery DSD business unit of the Sara Lee Corporation, a $12B consumer goods company. Before joining Sara Lee, he was CHRO of Reyes Holdings for six years, a privately-held $9B food and beer distributor. The first thirteen years of Phil’s career included progressive Human Resources experience with General Mills and The Pillsbury Company.Phil possesses deep networks and experience in CPG, Distribution, Supply Chain, Services, Retail, General Management, Finance, Marketing, Technology, and HR. In addition to recruiting, Phil has significant expertise in talent and organization development, change management, culture, M&A, succession planning, executive coaching, and executive compensation.

In addition to helping clients build and develop their leadership teams, Phil is actively involved in leading the expansion of the firm’s Chicago office. He is a member of the Board of Directors and Executive Council of the Chicago Nonprofit Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly. He enjoys socializing with family and friends, food, Chicago sports, and is an avid golfer. Phil resides in Cary, IL and is married to Ellen Debus with two daughters, Julia and Tricia.