Our Team
Liz Vanden Burgt
Managing Partner
Liz began her search career in 1997 at Schall Executive Search, where she became the first consultant hired by founder David Schall as he expanded the firm beyond a sole proprietorship. Over the years, Liz proved to be an indispensable contributor to the firm’s growth, drawing on her early success in human resources and sales to bring a practical, client-focused perspective to executive search. In 2014, she acquired the firm from David, continuing its legacy while expanding its reach and strengthening long-term client partnerships.
Recognized for her keen ability to assess talent, attention to detail, sense of urgency, and commitment to follow-through, Liz has successfully completed numerous senior-level assignments across a broad spectrum of industries, including consumer products, manufacturing, energy, financial services, retail, advertising/public relations, non-profit, and real estate. Her functional expertise spans C-Level and general management roles, Board of Director placements, and leadership searches in marketing, strategy, human resources, finance, operations, engineering, and sales.
Before joining Schall Executive Search, Liz began her career at American Express Financial Advisors (now Ameriprise) within Institutional Retirement Services, where she administered the company’s 401(k) plan. She later transitioned into human resources, supporting Tax and Business Services with a focus on mergers and acquisitions.
Liz earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication from St. Norbert College in Green Bay, Wisconsin. She and her husband, Mark, live in Minneapolis and have grown twin daughters, Isabella and Emilia. Beyond her professional work, Liz is known for building enduring relationships, bringing warmth and authenticity to her client engagements, and fostering a thoughtful, collaborative approach to executive search.
David R. Schall
Founder & Former Managing Partner
David Schall, Founder of Schall Executive Search, has been a respected leader in the Twin Cities executive search community since 1980. After launching his own search practice in 1982, David operated as a sole proprietor for 15 years before formally establishing Schall Executive Search, where he served as Managing Partner until 2014. Under his leadership, the firm earned a reputation for integrity, rigor, and a relationship-driven approach, helping organizations across industries secure exceptional leadership talent.
David studied Business and Russian language at Duke University and has long been active in community and philanthropic endeavors. He is a retired member of the Board of Directors of the Park Nicollet Foundation, The Blake School, and the Institute for Research and Education.
Before entering executive search, David worked in Washington, D.C. for former 3rd District Congressman Bill Frenzel and also spent time in California playing and teaching tennis. Today, he and his wife, Patty, live in Edina, Minnesota, and are the proud parents of two grown daughters. David remains an avid reader, golfer, and squash player, bringing the same energy and curiosity to his personal pursuits that defined his professional career.
UNDERSTANDING
We go deep inside an organization to understand its unique culture and business model so that we can efficiently find, present and place just the right candidates.
KNOWLEDGE
Our broad experience and intense knowledge of the marketplace, both locally and nationally, plus an effectively managed search process results in targeted outcomes.
BALANCE
The unique combination of curiosity and emotional connection with our clients allows for the right connectivity of people and placement of candidates.
URGENCY
We understand business so we feel an urgency to fill our client’s positions with candidates that have the right strengths appropriate for the growth of their organization.
Since 1982, we have used our personalized, tailored approach to help companies find the leaders they need.