The Buffkin Group, Baker and Associates Merge to Form Buffkin / Baker

The Buffkin Group, based in Nashville, Tenn. and Baker and Associates, based in Atlanta – two leading national retained search firms – have merged to form Buffkin / Baker, further positioning the firms for future growth that will leverage greater client service worldwide.

Terms of the agreement were not disclosed, and Buffkin / Baker will be headquartered in Nashville.

“We are excited about harnessing the synergies and vision of both of our firms that have established a proud tradition of excellent service and results for companies and organizations across the world,” said Craig Buffkin, managing partner of Buffkin / Baker. “Our partnership positions both firms for incredible future growth, and gives us a much larger platform for client service.”

Buffkin / Baker has offices in Nashville, Atlanta, Winston-Salem, N.C., Charleston, S.C, Chicago, New York and Washington, D.C., with affiliate offices in San Francisco and London. The firm has 11 partners nationwide. Buffkin / Baker specializes in health care, higher education, technology, digital media, digital marketing, financial services, nonprofit and private clubs.

“The Buffkin Group, like Baker and Associates, is always striving for excellence by providing innovative and creative solutions for our clients,” said Martin Baker, managing partner of Buffkin / Baker. “Both of our firms are very highly regarded, well-established names in our respective practice areas. This merger adds a lot more horsepower to capitalize on the vast experience that our partners can collectively deliver to the marketplace.”

The formation of Buffkin / Baker grew out of a like vision, passion and drive for clients across the country.

“Through the years it became abundantly clear that Martin and I could build a successful business together, dedicated to our shared values and vision to take both firms to exciting new levels, and have fun doing it,” Buffkin said.

“Craig and I have known each other for many years and have worked well together both professionally and personally,” Baker said. “Our common values of delivering a higher level of customer service will help differentiate us in the marketplace, and position us for a bright future.”

Jerry Baker, who founded Baker and Associates in 2007, will serve as senior advisor and chairman of the firm’s higher education practice.