William J. Farrell

William Farrell has been with Boyden for over 30 years. As the former lead in Greater China, he has extensive experience working across the Asia Pacific region. He also has comprehensive knowledge of the Southeast Asia market. His search experience includes working in industrial manufacturing, shipping and logistics, and financial services. In addition, Bill has served as a Board Director for NGOs and private companies for 20-plus years. He is currently leading Boyden’s Taiwan and South Korea offices, and focuses on recruiting for Board, CEO and other leadership roles across functional lines.

Professional Focus

Over 30 years’ experience in executive search
Specialties in the industrial and financial services industries - expertise in automotive, asset management and insurance
Focus on regional and country level CEO and business development roles, as well as CFO appointments
Frequently conducts cross-border searches in close collaboration with Boyden teams across Asia-Pacific
Experienced Board Director – conducts board search and board training
Fluent in Mandarin and English

Business Expertise

Successful track record in a variety of industries, including automotive, chemicals and specialty minerals goods and logistics
Extensive experience in the financial services sector, particularly asset management and insurance

Practice Membership

Global Industry Practices

Automotive
Financial Services, APAC Leader
Industrial, APAC Leader
Industrial Manufacturing
Infrastructure and Transportation
Supply Chain & Logistics

Global Cross-Sector Practices

CEO & Board Services
Private Equity & Venture Capital

Education & Certifications

BA in History from University of Minnesota
Completed Advanced Consulting Program at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management

Affiliations & Awards

Member, Boyden World Corporation Board of Directors
Former Vice Chairman, Board of Governors and Supervisors American Chamber of Commerce
Former Chairman, Nominations Committee, American Chamber of Commerce
Chairman, Human Resources Committee, American Chamber of Commerce
Boyden Board of Directors Award, 2009
Boyden Spirit Award, 2006
Asia-Pacific Sidney Boyden Award, 1997