Executive connections: search firm unites HR needs with executive, diverse talent

The overarching goal in business is to provide a product or service
that not only delights the customers but satisfies their needs and
desires. Unfortunately, far too many firms tend to decide between
the two rather than provide the clientele complete satisfaction. This is
exactly when, in 2003, Julie Kampf saw an opportunity to thrive within the
executive search community with her firm JBK Associates.

Kampf founded JBK with the intent to be different from the competi-
tion. The firm deploys a service model which effectively focuses on part-
nering with its client base to find true matches. Testimonials featured on
the company’s Web site reveal its penchant for making connections.
“We are very agile, flexible and work efficiently as a seamless integration
with the client’s HR team, the president explained. “The key for JBK is to
continue finding clients interested in developing and nurturing partner-
ship relationships.”
Kampf continued,“We are successful and we are always looking to raise
the bar in the talent base.”
One key aspect of keeping a high level of service revolves around JBK’s
determination to keep everyone well informed.

“We know that there is a history in the industry of candidates not know-
ing where they stand and having inconsistent communication with the
search professionals,” she said.“This is something we avoid.The better we
are at communicating, the better the experience for all involved.”

DEVELOPED CORE

Though the firm started with Kampf working alone, she
has hired JBK’s seventh employee. Having recently celebrat-
ed its five-year anniversary, JBK has enjoyed steady growth in
both clientele and staffing, which also prompted the compa-
ny to move to a newer location.
JBK services small, mid and large multinational organiza-
tions by sourcing senior level executive talent. Within its
scope, the firm assists with identifying professionals to fit
management roles in functional areas such as, but not limited
to marketing, sales, finance, business development, training
and development, communications, and human resources.
Concerning industries, JBK has made a name for itself in
well-defined sectors: life sciences, including prescription and
over-the-counter pharmaceuticals; biotech; medical device
and diagnostics; consumer products, including beauty, fash-
ion, home textiles, and food and beverage.

“By design, we will not ever be a huge firm. We want to
strategically grow so that we can continue to offer the flexi-
bility and service level that our clients appreciate,” Kampf
said.“We take pride in servicing the clients properly, so we do
not go after multiple clients in a sector.We keep our focus rel-
atively narrow. We will branch out to meet demand but we
will control the growth.”

POWER OF DIVERSITY

Fresh off its first exhibition at the Linkage Summit for
Diversity, JBK has a true passion for diversity — something
that has translated into a holistic strength and a competi-
tive advantage.
“We understand what diversity brings to the table, and our
statistics show that we are successful in finding diverse talent
that thrives for our client base,” Kampf said.
Kampf walks the talk and takes great pride in her dynamic
and diverse team, one that crosses generational, gender, eth-
nical and religious differences.
“We have a culture team that blends well together and
works cohesively. There are differences in people but these
differences actually make the organization stronger,” she said.
“We embody what many organizations aim to achieve while
demonstrating how diverse talents can work as a successful
unit through in-house experiences.

We have some young tal-
ent eager to receive training and continue learning, some peo-
ple who have changed careers as well as working mothers
within the organization — two of which work flexible hours.”

REINVENTING THE WHEEL

As with any firm wishing to remain on top of its game,
JBK has persistent dedication to continuous improvement.
“We are always reinventing ourselves and looking at
ways we can be better. This is something that has defined
us as an organization,” she said. “When you do not accept
the risks or put forth the effort, the rewards are just not as
great. I provide the same environment for people within
this organization to be flexible, as well.

This is about the
productivity, culture and climate we have created. When
you don’t reinvent, you do not get ahead. You cannot
remain static if you want to remain on top. People appreci-
ate the new ideas and new visions.”
WBENC certification and plugging into its related network
are examples of how JBK has embraced tools and resources
to become a better firm. Kampf explained that she fully
understands the significance of certification and she is a pro-
ponent of more women entrepreneurs going through the
process.

At the same time, she does not rely on the certifica-
tion as a means of securing an opportunity, especially since
her firm is not selling a traditional product or service with a
set price.
“We have a large ticket item with a long sell time and
unique process,” Kampf said.“While the return on the certifi-
cation investment may not be immediate, that does not lessen
its importance.”

The company, which is a member of the Association of
Executive Search Consultants, has received a number of
awards based on its innovation, commitment, resilience and
its ability to put its clients first. Most recently, JBK was named
one of Working Mother magazine’s top woman-owned busi-
nesses in the country.
“The continued recognition affirms that our model works,”
she said. “Plus, when company presidents call you on a
Saturday to discuss their talent needs, it shows that you have
a vote of confidence that has come through a lot of hard
work and perseverance.