Roles and Responsibilities: Operational Excellence & Process Improvement
• Assess current search execution lifecycle, tools, and processes against internal needs and future state goals.
• Identify and codify “The JMS Way” by working across practices to document and drive consistency in process where best practices exist, leading to an improved client and candidate experience.
• Design and implement repeatable workflows, tools, templates, and standards that improve execution quality and reduce variability across teams.
• Introduce continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, etc.) to optimize key processes.
• Build and run an internal PMO-like function to prioritize, implement, and track strategic search-related initiatives.
• Develop and maintain dashboards, KPIs, and scorecards to monitor search execution health, quality, efficiency, and client satisfaction.
• Establish mechanisms for feedback loops, root cause analysis, and continuous learning across the delivery team.
Enablement, Change Management & Stakeholder Engagement
• Design and lead enablement programs for Search team members (from Coordinators to Partners), aligned to best practices in client management, candidate development, and project execution.
• Drive adoption of new tools, processes, and standards across the firm by articulating the “What’s In It For Me” (WIIFM) at every level.
• Equip leaders and team members with the communication, coaching, and measurement tools to drive behavioral change.
• Collaborate with Partners, Principals, and internal operations to define shared expectations, standards, and execution guardrails.
• Lead cross-functional working groups to align on pain points, priorities, and solutions.
• Serve as a change agent, bridging firm strategy with day-to-day practice needs and culture.
Infrastructure, Systems & AI
• In partnership with IT and Operations, identify, implement, and improve systems that enable search delivery (e.g., ATS/CRM, project tracking tools).
• Define and build the supporting documentation, knowledge base, and training content to reinforce consistent usage and system value.
• Capable of identifying opportunities for AI and workflow automation, and partnering with the business to evaluate, implement, and scale solutions that improve efficiency, quality, and user experience.
Qualifications & Experience:
• Bachelor's degree required; Master’s degree in Business, Organizational Development, or related field preferred.
• 7-10+ years of experience in executive search, recruiting operations, or professional services operations.
• Demonstrated experience standing up or leading a PMO or operational improvement function.
• Proven success driving enablement, training, or change initiatives in a decentralized or partner-led model.
• Strong process design, documentation, and improvement skills (Lean, Six Sigma, or similar a plus).
• Familiarity with professional services, private equity, or executive search industry context.
