Alford Executive Search (AES), a division of Kistner Eddy Executive Services, Inc. (KEES), is a retained search firm that provides high-caliber executive placement services for not-for-profit organizations and public agencies across the country. KEES offers further services in areas including human resources consulting, succession planning and executive coaching.
 
Our expert team in both divisions is noted for responsiveness, thoroughness and service excellence. Because we know the importance of leadership experience, each of our consultants has served as a not-for-profit staff leader, board member, or key volunteer. This experience, coupled with extensive training and years of consulting, gives our team the knowledge and strategic advantage to deliver exemplary services to numerous not-for-profit and public sectors.
 
The Opportunity: Search Associate
As a central component of the firm, the Search Associate provides support in the consistent delivery of high-quality, customized solutions to clients, prospective clients, and the firm. While primarily focused in our executive search and search assistance work, this role will have exposure to other work for AES/KEES.
 
Performance Objectives
 
Client Relationship and Service Management

• Work closely and proactively with Search Team Members at all levels to anticipate, delegate and/or execute tasks critical to the delivery of high-quality service and products.
• Facilitate professional and expedient communication among and between the KEES/AES service team and clients.
• Project manage searches as assigned, including but not limited to: interviewing stakeholders, writing job descriptions/performance expectations, drafting plans and timelines, developing screening questions and utilizing our online Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to screen applications, phone screening, drafting a narrative write-up of a candidate profile, scheduling interviews, and supporting the overall client interview process.
• Support the candidate outreach process in support of each search, including but not limited to: posting jobs, conducting research for candidates, and initiating telephone outreach to support email and social media outreach.
• Issue regular communications (weekly/biweekly) to clients on the status of the search and upcoming timeline/needs.
• Facilitate search closing steps, including the administration of the DiSC profile process, reference and background checking.
• Track candidates placed by AES, including titles, hiring manager, salary ranges, dates, etc.
• Serve as the principal editor of materials such as presentations, work plans, timelines, candidate reports, and other related items.
• Manage internal team functions such as work planning and scheduling.

 
Operations Support

• Process and submit general operational expenses on a monthly basis via the firm’s online expense tool, and provide backup to client expense submission when needed.
• Coordinate travel and logistics for client and firm meetings, including travel for candidates being presented.
• Support the Marketing and Research Associate on social media efforts of the firm.

 
General Expectations / Miscellaneous

• Learn and remain up-to-date about KEES/AES products, services and standards.  Participate in the process of developing/refining materials that support all lines of client service.
• Understand and execute, with independence, special projects as assigned by senior members on the team, including but not limited to: proposals or marketing initiatives, supporting other consulting projects, research, etc.
• Conduct research, draft articles or position papers, and develop new tools or services to meet client needs.
• Serve as a representative of AES/KEES and market the firm’s expertise in all settings.

 
Local travel may be required as called for to meet client needs. Out of town travel may be needed in select cases.
 
The Qualified Candidate
Alford Executive Search (AES), a division of Kistner Eddy Executive Services, Inc. (KEES), seeks an energetic, emerging leader with a commitment to the not-for-profit and public sectors. This role will require a spirit that supports the growth of the whole firm, as well as its individual service lines. Growth for this position will be defined by mastery of the performance expectations, superior client service, and ability to help the firm grow and expand its client and market share.
 
Qualifications (Required)

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Attention to detail.
• Self-starter with ability to work and think independently, and to initiate and follow-through on projects.
• Excellent critical thinking and listening skills.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively and efficiently produce high-quality documents such as letters, proposals and marketing/sales materials.
• Ability to make decisions independently and in consultation with others as appropriate.
• Ability to maintain strict confidential information related to candidate, personnel and business matters.
• Organized, focused and self-directed work style.
• Professional experience demonstrating effective and articulate verbal and written communication.
• Editorial expertise.
• Professional appearance for office setting and/or client meetings when necessary.
• Ability to manage relationships with diverse people, including client, staff and high-level volunteers.
• Above-average ability to operate the fundamentals of Microsoft Office Programs such as Word, Outlook, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Ability to navigate the internet to conduct research.
• Ability to work remotely and in a virtual office setting.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to get to meetings that may not be on public transportation routes.

 
Qualifications (Desired)

• Energetic personality.
• Experience with not-for-profit organizations, consulting firms, and/or human resource departments.
• Knowledge of CRM and online databases.
• WordPress and/or similar website editor experience.
• Knowledge of online survey tools such as Survey Monkey, ZoHo Survey, etc.
• Live in the metropolitan Chicago area with ease of access to city and suburban locations.

 
To Apply
Candidates must complete the online application by clicking the 'Apply Now' link at the bottom of the page and thereon submit their cover letter and resume for the SEARCH ASSOCIATE position.
 
To assure confidential tracking of all applicants, no applications will be accepted via email. Questions may be addressed to Kelly Monahan via email at kmonahan@alfordexecutivesearch.com.