Kelli Arnold Named Chief Strategy and Growth Officer at M3 Placement and Partnership

M3 Placement and Partnership (M3), a MWBE talent acquisition advisory firm specializing in executive searches, direct placement, and high-volume recruiting, announced the appointment of Kelli Arnold as Vice President, Chief Strategy and Growth Officer, effective September 29, 2025. In this newly created role, Arnold will drive M3’s expansion into existing and new markets and broaden its portfolio of executive search, outsourced recruitment, strategic HR consulting and value-added client services.

As Chief Strategy and Growth Officer, Arnold will be a key member of the M3 executive team and responsible for leading the company’s ambitious growth strategy as well as cultivating the next generation of M3 leaders. Her new role will be equal parts vision and execution, planning and promotion. She’ll be the architect of M3’s expansion plan, as well as the face of it, bringing M3’s vision and message to clients, prospective partners, community leaders and industry groups.

“Over the past 14 years, we’ve built something truly special at M3—grounded in deep client relationships, a relentless commitment to excellence, and a culture that puts people first,” said Mary Malone McCarthy, M3 Founder and CEO. “As we expand our impact across the state and redefine how organizations approach executive search and talent strategy, Kelli is the perfect leader to help us move forward. Her insights, energy, authenticity, and relationship- driven approach will be invaluable as M3, and our clients move into a new and exciting chapter.”

Arnold is a well-known and highly respected leader in the Capital Region and beyond. She has more than two decades of senior executive experience in the banking industry, most recently serving as Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer at Pioneer Bank. She brings to M3 a wealth of business and community relationships, along with a clear sense of purpose and passion.

“The most rewarding part of my career has been helping others succeed, and joining M3 provides an incredible opportunity to make an impact on an even greater scale,” Arnold said. “After building a career rooted in strategic leadership, trusted partnerships and measurable impact, I see this as an exciting next chapter, one that aligns perfectly with my values and aspirations. I’m inspired by M3’s mission, energized by its high-growth trajectory, and eager to collaborate with an experienced team to create innovative, scalable solutions that help clients and their employees achieve lasting success.”

About M3

M3 is a boutique executive search, outsourced recruitment, and strategic HR consulting firm known for delivering high-touch, results-driven service to small to mid-size, high-growth organizations. With an expert team of 14 dedicated professionals, M3 serves clients nationwide across a range of industries, including technology, energy, manufacturing, not for profit, healthcare, and professional services.

For more information about M3, visit m3placement.com. Media inquiries, please contact: Janna Edick, (315) 624-2210.