Heidrick & Struggles has hired John S. Wood, previously with Spencer Stuart, to serve as Vice Chairman and Managing Partner of the firm’s newly combined global CEO and Board practice.

The company — already known for counseling CEOs and board members on complex issues — is counting on Wood to handle everything from CEO succession planning to the recent TARP executive compensation restrictions. He has completed nearly 200 chief executive officer and board director searches for a broad range of international corporations. Also, he will work with senior management to integrate the firm’s leadership consulting services, creating a complete offering in one practice.

Wood, who has more than 15 years of executive search consulting experience, will report directly to CEO L. Kevin Kelly.