Hudson Highland Group Inc. (NASD: HHGP) yesterday announced Manuel "Manolo" Marquez will become CEO of the company and chairman of the board. Marquez will be based in New York.

Before his most recent role as CEO of Amper S.A., a defense, homeland security and telecom services company in Spain, Marquez led the Europe, Middle East and Africa region at global executive search firm Spencer Stuart. He was with Spencer Stuart for 15 years.

"We are thrilled to welcome an executive of Manolo's caliber to Hudson," said Richard Stolz, who became chairman of the board last month after the removal of chairman and CEO Jon Chait. "He brings a proven track record of successfully leading and building great teams to deliver results. Manolo's growth focus, global business experience and industry depth make him the ideal person to lead Hudson forward."

Mary Jane Raymond, executive VP and CFO, will continue as acting CEO until Marquez can obtain a U.S. visa and assume the role.