John Wasley is the Managing Partner of Wasley Associates, a retained executive search and advisory firm specializing in executive recruiting, coaching, and performance management. With over three decades of experience, he has partnered with organizations to identify transformative leaders, build strong cultures, and guide executives toward achieving their full potential.

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John’s executive search career took shape at Russell Reynolds Associates, where he joined in 2000 as an Executive Director, refining his expertise in leadership assessment and executive recruitment. In 2001, he moved to Heidrick & Struggles, where he rose to Senior Managing Partner, leading high-profile search engagements for some of the world’s most respected organizations. His career continued with leadership roles at Spencer Stuart and Caldwell Partners, further deepening his expertise in placing senior executives and board members. Most recently, as Managing Partner at Ferguson Partners, John advised clients across industries on leadership strategy, executive hiring, and succession planning.

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Before transitioning to executive search, John built a strong foundation in banking and real estate. He began his career in 1983 as Vice President at Wedgewood Investment Corporation, becoming CFO in 1985. In 1988, he founded Wedgewood Development Company, serving as its President and leading real estate development projects. By 1992, he joined People’s Bank of California as Vice President of Real Estate, overseeing loan servicing, corporate real estate, and commercial lending. These early leadership experiences provided a deep understanding of business operations and strategy, insights that continue to shape his executive search and coaching work.

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John holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from UCLA and has completed executive education programs at Harvard Business School. He also attended Pembroke College, Cambridge University, expanding his academic and global perspective. Over a 20-year tenure on the board of the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco, he chaired the Affordable Housing Program, the Governance Committee, and the HR and Compensation Committees, reinforcing his commitment to effective governance and community impact.

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Outside of his professional life, John enjoys woodworking, reading, and spending time with his family at his homes in Chatham, Massachusetts, and Pasadena, California. Passionate about building meaningful relationships, he is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of leaders and fostering both professional and personal growth.