SEI Appointed New Managing Director for Seattle
The consultancy firm has named Joel Beherndt to lead its Seattle office operations.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in People
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SEI has appointed Joel Beherndt as the new managing director for its Seattle office. Beherndt previously served as head of market development and strategy at the firm.
Why it matters
The leadership change arrives as SEI seeks to build upon the growth established in the region since the office launched in 2023. This appointment maintains the consultancy's executive focus as it navigates operations across its national footprint.
SEI employs over 700 people across its 13 national offices. The new managing director brings 15 years of total consulting experience to the position, including 14 years spent at Point B.
The players
Joel Beherndt
He is the newly appointed managing director of the SEI Seattle office who previously spent 14 years at the firm Point B.
Bonnie Cote
She is the former Seattle market head who will transition into a role as a principal consultant at SEI.
SEI
Founded in 1992, this consultancy firm operates 13 offices across the United States and employs over 700 people.
The details
Joel Beherndt takes over the Seattle branch after serving as the firm's head of market development and strategy. Bonnie Cote, who launched the Seattle market in 2023, will remain with SEI as a principal consultant following her return from maternity leave.
Timeline
SEI was founded in 1992.
The Seattle market launched in 2023.
Joel Beherndt joined SEI in July 2025.
The appointment was announced on September 22, 2026.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition reflects the broader strategic effort to stabilize and grow professional services firms within the competitive Puget Sound business corridor. It positions SEI to maintain continuity as the company scales its operations against rival consultancies in the area.
Clients of the Seattle office can expect continuity in service as the transition occurs between the firm's existing leadership and the new managing director. This appointment signals no immediate changes to local consulting rates or available service offerings for regional business partners.
The takeaway
Effective leadership transitions are critical for professional services firms to maintain client trust during periods of organizational change. Consistent executive oversight ensures that regional growth remains aligned with the firm's long-term business objectives.
Further reading
Learn more about local leadership shifts on the Seattle People page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Consulting.
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