Justin Cottrell
Partner
Private Equity Practice

Biography
Justin has over 15 years of experience in technology-focused executive search, specializing in core product development functions across various industries. He has effectively partnered with leading private equity firms to help their technology-driven portfolio companies achieve high-growth outcomes. His recruiting expertise encompasses both portfolio-level operating engagements and key value-creation mandates within private equity strategic resource groups.
As a Partner at Riviera, Justin is integral to the Private Equity Practice, advising post-investment middle-market businesses of all sizes. He enhances portfolio leadership teams and recruits technical value-creation talent for Managing Director, Operating Partner, Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR), and other specialist roles. His focus is on attracting top technology talent to drive organizational growth and prepare companies for successful exits.
Before joining Riviera, Justin was the Sector Leader for Korn Ferry’s Technology Officers Practice, where he led a team of recruitment experts and delivered numerous executive engagements across the Fortune 1000. His efforts resulted in securing top-tier talent for critical leadership roles essential for transformation and innovation.
Earlier in his career, Justin served as President of Talener, a boutique technology search firm specializing in sourcing product, engineering, and design talent for early- and growth-stage venture-backed businesses. Under his leadership, Talener expanded to 150 employees across six offices nationwide.
Justin resides in New York City and holds a B.A. in History from Dartmouth College.
Client highlights
- CloudCall
- Gale Healthcare
- Encompass
- Magnit
- NetDocuments
- Tempo