Preparation

We begin our work in support of your search by clarifying and providing advice about issues of committee structure and charge, process, timetable, and recruitment/outreach strategy.

Our experience conducting various types of searches and representing numerous institutions nationally provides us with an understanding of “best practices” in conducting executive searches and we will recommend these strategies to the search committee. We will work closely with the search committee to explore each alternative approach and identify one that best suit the needs of the institution and the assignment we seek to complete. Throughout this and all other phases of the process, we will maintain flexibility and work in partnership with the committee.

Understanding Your Institution

While each phase of the search process is extremely important, we place special emphasis on the initial discovery phase. We will meet with the client, the search committee, and all other important constituents, to gain a thorough understanding of our client institution and understand the broader context and priorities for the position and the search. It is vital for us to hear a broad range of views about the position and essential candidate qualifications to recruit candidates who are an excellent match for the position.

To assist us in recruiting appropriate candidates, we will review relevant documents including planning reports, budgets, organizational charts, accreditation reports, catalogs, and admissions materials. We will also explore any and all critical institutional issues impacting the institution, particularly those bearing on institutional direction and priorities.

Developing the Position Description 

We will work in collaboration with the search committee, the hiring officer, and the institution’s communications department to develop a position description. The position description will include a profile of the client institution, a statement of qualifications for the position, and the preliminary selection criteria. This document, along with the directives issued by the hiring authority, will serve as a reference for the search committee throughout the search and will clearly outline the criteria upon which candidates will be evaluated. This document is an important recruitment tool which provides prospective candidates with vital information and insights about both the position and the institution.