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Client Testimonials
From time to time we interview a client or former client about his or her career transition and their experience with Kelleher Associates.
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December
2005
Dennis O’Donnell is a Human Resources executive with experience in a wide range of mid-size through Fortune 500 companies in the pharmaceutical, biotech, financial services and manufacturing sectors. Dennis came to us in early 2004, stepped into a global training organization and subsequently secured a senior training/development business partner role with a major Philadelphia area insurance company.
How did you come to Kelleher for career counseling?
When I was separated from my employer, I did not have a choice of outplacement provider and was directed to large firm. After several sessions, I became uncomfortable with their “cookie cutter’ approach. The counselor assigned to me did not have the depth of understanding to properly coach me. A friend referred me to Ed Kelleher and Al Kramer and after one meeting, I requested my employer switch my program to Kelleher Associates. It was clear to me that Ed’s personal approach and depth of experience were what I needed. In addition, all the resources of Kelleher Associates, Inc. were available to me, including Mitch Wienick, Ed’s partner.
What path or paths did you pursue? Were you looking for a traditional role?
Not initially. I was not well networked; I had been supporting the sales department and had not built a personal network. Since I was not interested in a relocation and there are not a lot of insurance companies in the area, I needed time to build a network.
What followed was first a move into consulting and then on to the traditional senior HR role in my industry.
I had known the people form Courage Institute for years, having brought them in to past organizations. After networking with them, I began to support them on a contractual basis and the role became full-time. I learned a lot from this experience.
So your consulting assignment was a positive experience?
It was a very good thing. I realized more than before that what I really enjoyed was being in an organization, staying with the issues and problems and solutions, and having the gratification of the end result.
What was your next step?
A former colleague invited me to explore an opportunity with a major Philadelphia area based global insurance company. This business partner role to me is the best place to make a significant impact on the development of the organization.
What was your experience at Kelleher Associates? Was the value short term or long term?
Both.
Ed helped me to focus in on what I really wanted to do. I gathered market perspective and gained confidence. Ed emphasized the important of networking, which led me to both opportunities-- that it is ongoing. “Landing” does not mean forever – it is important to be open and continue to explore.
My relationship with Kelleher is ongoing. Ed and his team, Al, and Mitch, are available to me and part of my network. I know that I am always welcome in their office and occasionally use their site for a business meeting. Their generosity goes beyond my expectation and their obligation.
Do you have any advice for others?
The experience of the Kelleher principals lends itself to the higher level executives – that is their niche. I would advise others who are sponsored by their former employer to request a provider of their choice, explore their capabilities, meet the counselor, and make their own decision. If directed to a group not suited to your level and needs, it is okay to challenge the company’s choice. After all, this is your career.
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