National search marks an important leadership transition as SVS builds on more than a decade of growth and looks toward the future of vascular health
Rosemont, Ill. — Oct. 21, 2026 — The Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) has retained Tuft & Associates to lead a national search for its next Executive Director. The search follows the upcoming planned retirement of Kenneth Slaw, PhD, who has led SVS with distinction for more than a decade.
"Under Dr. Slaw's leadership, SVS has significantly expanded its reach, strengthened its programs and services and elevated the visibility of vascular surgery," said Linda Harris, MD, DFSVS, SVS President. "His dedication and contributions have helped establish a strong foundation for the Society, and we are deeply grateful for his leadership and commitment to SVS and the vascular community."
Tuft & Associates specializes in executive recruitment for associations, medical societies and nonprofit organizations. The firm's understanding of the medical society landscape and association leadership will support SVS in conducting a comprehensive national search.
"The selection of our next Executive Director represents an important opportunity to shape the future of SVS and its role in advancing excellence and innovation in vascular health," said Andy Schanzer, MD, SVS President-elect and Chair of the Executive Director Search Committee. "As healthcare continues to evolve, SVS has an important role in harnessing the collective scientific expertise and influence of the vascular community to advance the specialty, shape the future of vascular care and improve the lives of patients. We look forward to partnering with Tuft & Associates in this important leadership transition."
The national search will begin immediately. SVS expects to announce its next Executive Director ahead of the 2027 Vascular Annual Meeting (VAM27), June 2–5 in San Diego, Calif.
SVS invites individuals interested in contributing to the future of the Society and the specialty to learn more about this executive leadership opportunity. Additional information about the position and national search is available through Tuft & Associates at https://tuftassoc.com/jobs/svs-executive-director/.
About SVS
The Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) seeks to advance excellence and innovation in vascular health through education, advocacy, quality improvement, research and public awareness. The organization was founded in 1946 and currently has a membership of more than 6,300. SVS membership is recognized in the vascular community as a mark of professional achievement.
SVS is also committed to increasing public awareness of vascular health and helping patients make informed decisions about their care. Through its patient education initiative, Your Vascular Health, SVS provides accessible information about vascular conditions, prevention and treatment options.
Learn more at Vascular.org and YourVascularHealth.org.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Sarah Jeziorski
SVSPress@vascularsociety.org