Interview with Charles (“Rip”) Tilden
“The power of experienced senior counsel
combined with networking is unbeatable. Ed
Kelleher is the most effective career counselor
for senior executives I have ever known.”
Rip Tilden was
the COO of a global wireless communications
advanced technology and products corporation. He
turned to Kelleher Associates, Inc. for help in
moving from the high-level, high-compensation,
Fortune 200 path to a smaller company
environment where he could directly impact the
quality of peoples’ lives. Rip discussed his
transition and experience at Kelleher in helping
him land the role he envisioned.
Why did you
choose Kelleher Associates?
I wanted a
personalized “high touch” transition experience;
not a cookie-cutter approach. I knew I needed to
explore many options, directions, and career
alternatives. There would be blind alleys and
moments of frustration. This was a big decision
for me. Ed Kelleher and I had met several years
ago. I knew he would emphasize personal
counseling and help me discern, not just land.
Ed would get to
know me. He genuinely would want what was best
for me. Ed said “it is important to discern the
highest and best use of your talents at this
time in your life.” He was instrumental in
helping me chart the next step.
I may not have
made the choice I made were it not for Ed and
Kelleher Associates, Inc.
What would
you say was the most important part of your
Kelleher experience?
Ed helped me
align my career goals with my personal beliefs.
I am a dedicated family man with a deep faith.
The theme of my search parallels the theme of my
life. I opened myself up and followed a number
of paths simultaneously while having the
confidence that I would find a way to impact
others. I wanted the closest match. A one day a
week group meeting would not get me to that
match. What I got was regular one-on-one
meetings with Ed..
What are the
lessons learned from your search?
You have to be
willing to network broadly and actively. I had
2-3 face-to-face meetings every day. I got out
of the house, made sure I was in touch with
people, and maintained a steady level of
activity. Philadelphia has well-organized
networking groups. They are different from
elsewhere and were a very important component of
my job search..
Is there
anything else you would like to add about your
experience at Kelleher?
I would go to
the moon for Kelleher. Everyone on the team
helped me at one point or another..
|
