Dr. John Cech joined AGB Search as an Executive Search Consultant in June 2025. Dr. Cech brings decades of executive experience and national recognition as a transformational higher education leader. He most recently served as the 18th President of Carroll College (2018–2025), where he led the institution to national prominence through academic innovation, capital improvements, and global partnerships. A former deputy commissioner for the Montana University System and dean/CEO of City College at Montana State University Billings, Dr. Cech is widely respected for his ability to build strategic coalitions and guide institutional change.
Experience and Honors
Dr. Cech’s leadership in higher education spans presidential, statewide, and community college roles. As President of Carroll College, he led major capital renovations, launched new academic programs, expanded international partnerships, and successfully navigated the COVID-19 crisis. He also served as Deputy Commissioner for Academic, Research & Student Affairs for the Montana University System, where he championed academic innovation and national grant initiatives. Earlier in his career, Dr. Cech was Dean/CEO of City College at MSU Billings and led adult and continuing education programs at Rocky Mountain College.
He has chaired accreditation teams for the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and held national leadership roles on the Executive Committees of NAICU, NAIA, and NACU. His national service includes testimony before legislative bodies and meetings with senior leaders, including Pope Francis and President Trump. Dr. Cech’s recognitions include the Engaged Leadership Award (2025), Distinguished Service Awards from multiple athletic conferences, and distinguished alumni honors from MSU Billings and Regis University.
Education
