Current Searches

Search Process

Our consultative approach to search

Witt/Kieffer views its clients as partners. This is why we seek continuous input from and keep our client informed at each stage of the search process.
Clear, straightforward communication is the hallmark of our approach to executive search.
Witt/Kieffer's consultative approach to search is carefully designed to meet each client's specific needs. We closely coordinate each phase of the search with our client and adapt it as necessary throughout the duration of the consulting assignment.

Organization Assessment and Strategic Consultation

A search assignment begins with a thorough assessment of an organization's structure, strategic goals, culture and leadership needs. We interview members of your management team including the CEO and human resources vice president, medical staff, board of directors, and other corporate constituents to determine the best search strategy.
We subsequently meet with the person to whom the position reports and others, as appropriate, to present our findings. This meeting helps to cement the strategic partnership that is essential to a successful search.
We also advise the chief executive officer, management team, medical staff, board of directors, and as many others as appropriate - of internal or external barriers to the search and recommend strategies to overcome them.
We subsequently prepare a written report including detailed candidate specifications and goals and objectives to be achieved by the new executive.

Identification of Candidates

We would plan a national search that targets a variety of sources including, among others, key executives both in and out of health care, professional colleagues nationwide, and candidates identified from the firm's state-of-the-art information system.
Most importantly, our consultants rely on industry contacts, nationally and regionally, to ensure a successful search. While some potential candidates may be actively seeking employment, most are currently employed in high-level positions. Our goal is to identify candidates whose leadership style and accomplishments mirror the client's needs.
We will evaluate any other candidates - including internal candidates - you may refer to us. Should you receive resumes from individuals who are interested in the position, please direct them to our office. We will acknowledge these on your behalf and assess each individual's level of interest and potential, along with the candidates we identify.
We also recognize our clients' commitment to diversity in the work place. We make every effort to present all appropriately qualified candidates. We have a long-term record of placing women and minority candidates throughout the healthcare industry.

Candidate Evaluation

We conduct in-depth evaluation interviews with each screened candidate to assess the potential for success within your organization, as well as a serious interest in the position. We evaluate internal candidates using the same process as external candidates.
We seek out and speak with several individuals who can provide professional and/or personal references on each candidate including, where appropriate, current and former employers to determine management style, skills, strengths and accomplishments. We are particularly interested in references from supervisors and peers on how well the candidate might fit within your organization.
A candidate is never presented to you without successfully passing this critical evaluation.

Verification of Credentials

We verify all candidates' academic degrees, professional licenses and certifications.

Presentation of Candidates

Once we have evaluated the most qualified candidates, we schedule a meeting with you or the person to whom the position reports to review each candidate in-depth. Once you have determined the candidates to be interviewed, we will perform additional reference checks.

Client Interviews with Candidates

We will be available to assist you and others from the client organization as you prepare for and conduct interviews with the identified candidates. We believe our feedback on interviews may be helpful as you determine the most suitable candidates.

Negotiation Assistance
Once the client decides to extend an offer, we are available to assist in preparing and negotiating an executive compensation package. We believe our experience can be particularly useful in your efforts to recruit a new executive.

Completion of Assignment

We commit to stay in close contact with you and the new placement for at least a full year - and desire to stay closely connected for many years - to ensure a smooth transition and a successful long-term match between the new executive and the client.
If the placement leaves before one year, Witt/Kieffer will conduct a search for a replacement at no charge to the client (excluding expenses).