Kate's Story
I had to smile when I read in a recent business journal that large search firms, now emerging from several years of declining revenues, are encountering clients that demand 'better service and better understanding of their businesses,' 'more accountability,' and are even becoming 'maniacal about receiving weekly progress reports.'

When I left my position as a partner in Korn/Ferry International's healthcare practice, after almost ten years as a top-performing principal, to start this firm in 1998, I could see the writing on the healthcare search industry wall.

The world of executive-level search was changing and the large search firm model wasn't working for many healthcare organizations. A position was no longer just a job, but a solution to a problem and an opportunity to advance the organization - filling it required a new approach. Old fee models weren't working either - there needed to be more billing flexibility and accountability. Search consultants were carrying heavier workloads, reducing time available to communicate with candidates, increasing internal competition, and creating pressure to complete searches. More work was being handed down to junior staff. Being "well-connected" more often meant by a mouse to a database, rather than by a phone call or handshake to a person.

I wanted to pursue a path that I found most productive and rewarding. Client relationships characterized by collaboration, communication, efficiency, flexibility and service. More customized, consultative and needs-driven; less restricted by process and profit quotas. The freedom to conduct thorough, thoughtful and exhaustive searches in order to meet a healthcare organization's most important goals.

We're not a mega firm, and even though we have that background and those capabilities, I've been there, I've done that. Now I'm committed to making sure our size and resources remain consistent with our ability to provide each client with an unparalleled level of attention, satisfaction and results.

I hope to have the opportunity to personally share our vision, approach and successes with you soon.

With thanks for your interest and consideration,

Kate L. Kingsley
President