The Legacy of ZMG Ward Howell: A Recruitment Firm in Manila with Global Reach
Overview
- ZMG Ward Howell is a premier recruitment firm in Manila with a proud legacy of matching exceptional Filipino talent with global opportunities.
- Backed by decades of experience and strong partnerships with Ward Howell International, we deliver executive search solutions that combine local expertise, international reach, and values-driven leadership to help organizations build teams that drive long-term success.
As a recruitment firm in Manila with decades of proven expertise, ZMG Ward Howell takes pride in a legacy built on vision, values, and global connections.
From our early beginnings under founder Jesus M. Zulueta, Jr., to our partnerships with Ward Howell International and memberships in various organizations, we have consistently elevated Filipino talent to the world stage while shaping the executive search landscape in the Philippines.
This article revisits our history, highlighting the milestones, philosophies, and global reach that continue to define ZMG Ward Howell as a trusted leader in recruitment and executive search.
The Visionary Founder: Jesus M. Zulueta, Jr.
Jesus “Gigi” M. Zulueta, Jr. was the driving force behind ZMG Ward Howell’s rise as a trusted name in executive search and human capital solutions in the Philippines.
A pioneer in the industry, he envisioned a firm that would connect top talent with the right opportunities and elevate the stature of Filipino professionals on a global stage.
His leadership shaped ZMG Ward Howell’s core values of integrity, continuous learning, and a sticky relationship with clients and candidates, embedding a culture where relationships and human potential take precedence over transactions.
JMZ believed that leadership is both a responsibility and a catalyst for positive change, guiding the company to uphold ethical practices while delivering measurable business impact.
His unwavering commitment to excellence and his belief in the transformative power of the right leaders continue to define ZMG Ward Howell’s mission of aligning talent with strategy to drive sustainable growth.
Key Milestones in Growth and Expansion
Throughout its history, ZMG Ward Howell has achieved pivotal milestones that strengthened its reputation and expanded its influence in the executive search industry.
Each step reflects the company’s ability to adapt to market demands, forge global partnerships, and consistently elevate the standard of leadership recruitment in the Philippines and beyond.
1981-1983
After JMZ established W.D. Scott in the Philippines, he completed his first executive search assignment for Citibank Consumer Bank, successfully placing Gerry Ablaza Jr., who would go on to hold key leadership roles in the Ayala Group.
This landmark placement established JMZ’s credibility and set the foundation for future high-impact searches.
1988
The formation of ZMG Consultants through partnerships with a Hong Kong-based headhunter (Michele) and an Investment Banker (Golamco) marked the company’s transition from management consulting to a dedicated executive search firm, expanding its network and expertise.
1991
A strategic partnership with Hasta Reka Dharani in Jakarta signaled ZMG’s first regional collaboration, strengthening its presence in Southeast Asia and opening opportunities for cross-border talent solutions.
1993-1996
JMZ’s full acquisition of W.D. Scott Philippines and the launch of ZMG Asia, followed by its recognition as the Philippine partner of Ward Howell International, gave the company a powerful global platform and elevated its brand as a premier executive search firm.
1997-2005
The creation of Asia Corporate Selection (later Asia Select) and ventures in Malaysia and India expanded ZMG’s service portfolio and geographical reach, allowing the firm to serve both mid-level and senior-level markets across Asia.
2011-2014
The establishment of AsiaPeopleworks, AsiaPeople Search, and Wynn Ward Howell in Myanmar diversified ZMG’s offerings into staffing, volume recruitment, and HR consulting, showcasing its adaptability and commitment to client needs.
2019-2020
Celebrating its 40th anniversary with the theme “40 and Future-Proof,” ZMG reinforced its focus on human capital readiness.
During the pandemic, the firm demonstrated resilience by embracing remote work and accelerating technology solutions, ensuring uninterrupted client service and sustainable growth.
2022-2025
ZMG Ward Howell strengthens its position as a future-ready talent solutions firm through the establishment of APWTech, a specialized staff outsourcing division focused on IT and technology-related roles, and Research and Talent Intelligence (RTI), which delivers highly curated data and insights to help clients and partners make smarter hiring decisions.
Now celebrating 46 years of excellence, ZMG Ward Howell continues the vision of Jesus M. Zulueta, Jr. (JMZ). It adapts to the rapid advancement of technology and innovation while upholding its enduring commitment to deliver transformative, future-ready talent solutions.
Core Philosophy and Values
At the heart of ZMG Ward Howell is a people-centered philosophy that balances global expertise with a deep respect for Filipino values, setting it apart from other executive search firms.
Makatao
We prioritize human connection, valuing relationships and understanding the unique aspirations of every client and candidate.
Disciplined
Our structured, data-driven process ensures precise, high-quality results without compromising empathy or insight.
Honest
Integrity guides every interaction, fostering trust and long-term partnerships with both clients and talent.
Creative
We embrace fresh perspectives and innovative strategies to deliver leadership solutions that address complex, evolving business challenges.
ZMG Ward Howell and Its Global Reach
We combine deep local expertise with a powerful international network to deliver world-class executive search solutions.
As the exclusive Philippine partner of Ward Howell International, we connect clients to a global community of leadership experts, enabling access to top talent across key markets worldwide.
Our partnership with Wynn Ward Howell in Myanmar further strengthens our presence in Asia, allowing us to serve organizations navigating diverse and complex business environments.
This global reach, anchored by Filipino values and strategic insights, ensures that every leadership solution we provide drives sustainable growth on both local and international stages.
Quick Recap
The story of ZMG Ward Howell is more than the growth of a recruitment firm in Manila; it is a testament to the power of values-driven leadership, strategic innovation, and a commitment to elevating talent beyond borders. Our enduring partnerships and global network enable us to deliver transformative solutions for businesses and leaders alike.
Partner with us today and experience a recruitment and executive search process designed to meet the demands of an ever-changing business landscape.
