Michael D. Amato

Michael Amato is Heidrick & Struggles’ chief commercial officer of Executive Search and On-Demand Talent (ODT), chief operations officer of ODT, based in Washington, D.C. He is a member of the firm’s global management committee. Michael drives ODT’s operational strategy—advancing scalability, technology adoption, performance management, and data-driven innovation in line with the firm’s vision, while leading client operations, the Knowledge Management Center in India, and contract administration.

Michael aligns ODT’s global growth with operational scalability and spearheads initiatives in technology adoption and performance management. He oversees daily operations across ODT, including U.S. client service delivery, quality control, and professional standards. His leadership ensures consistent excellence in execution while strengthening the firm’s ability to meet evolving client needs.

In addition to his ODT responsibilities, Michael’s search client operations role focuses on the firm’s largest and most active clients, including strategic partners. He plays a central role in managing several of Heidrick & Struggles’ most important client relationships, reinforcing the firm’s reputation for trusted partnership and strategic impact.

During his 19-year tenure with the firm, Michael has held several leadership positions, including knowledge manager, VP of strategy and analysis, and VP of client operations. These roles have equipped him with a broad perspective on the firm’s business and a proven ability to translate strategy into measurable results.

Prior to joining Heidrick & Struggles, Michael led marketing analysis and international pricing for MCI’s residential and long-distance business. He began his career with Eastman Kodak Company, where he held multiple management and general management roles that built the foundation for his expertise in operations, strategy, and client service.

State University of New York at Brockport, Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing