Today Korn Ferry works with clients to design their organizational structures, roles and responsibilities. The firm helps organizations hire the right people and advise them on how to reward, develop and motivate their workforce. The firm also helps professionals navigate and advance their careers. Burnison serves as an advisor to highly regarded CEOs and executive teams, offering counsel and insights on leadership and organizational transformation.  

Burnison brings hands-on experience to his current position, having served as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer for Korn Ferry, which he joined in 2002. Prior to Korn Ferry, Burnison served in several executive roles, including at Guidance Solutions, a technology services firm; Jefferies & Company, Inc., a global investment bank; and KPMG.

Burnison is the author of 10 leadership and career development books, including a New York Times bestseller. His latest book, Love Hope and Leadership: A Special Edition, is a collection of stories and reflections on how we live and lead. Other books authored by Burnison include The Five Graces of Life and Leadership; Take Control: The Career You Want, Where You Want; Leadership U: Accelerating Through the Crisis Curve; Advance: The Ultimate How-To Guide For Your Career; Lose the Resume, Land the Job; No Fear of Failure: Real Stories of How Leaders Deal with Risk and Change; LEAD; The Leadership Journey: How to Master the Four Critical Areas of Being a Great Leader; and The Twelve Absolutes of Leadership.

Burnison writes regular content focused on the intersection of strategy, talent and leadership, including his widely-read weekly "Special Editions” for global leaders.

Burnison earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Southern California and holds an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Pepperdine University.