Spring 2007
Bill Streich
Bill Streich, an experienced Chief Financial Officer, transitioned from a $450 million global manufacturing company where he restructured the company’s financial position, to a broader role with a previous employer, Holt Logistics, a marine terminal operator.
What was your introduction to Kelleher Associates?
I was referred to Ed Kelleher by an executive recruiter, who had a long-term
relationship with Ed. He stated “there is only one place where you will find
excellent coaching and networking opportunities, that’s Kelleher”.
After one meeting with Ed, we simply shook hands and moved forward.
Did you have certain expectations of your outplacement program, or Kelleher’s
service, in particular?
Not having used outplacement before, I wasn’t sure what to expect. However, I
knew that I needed professional, one-on-one executive level coaching, which only
a specialized firm with experienced coaches could provide.
What value did Ed Kelleher bring to the process?
Ed gave clear, consistent advice. We would review the client feedback from all
the job search related and networking meetings I attended. Ed knows the stress
that comes with job loss. Sometimes his advice was against my natural instincts,
however, Ed’s challenging my assumptions allowed me to look at the situations I
encountered from two different perspectives.
He helped me to channel my energy into networking, which got off to a great
start and proved to be very fruitful.
Every meeting with Ed triggered other thoughts and ideas. He always had time
for me. We did ‘dress rehearsals’ for important meetings and interviews.
The assessment work at Kelleher Associates led to very open discussions about
who I really am and where I was best suited.
Ed’s coaching on what jobs not to take was probably the most important advice
that he gave me. Several opportunities surfaced during my search. Ed helped me
align my strengths and weaknesses with that of the specific company
opportunities to determine if there was a good fit.
I was complimented many times that my ‘Kelleher-ized’ resume was concise and
specific.
Did Ed’s network contacts produce results for you?
Yes, Ed’s network contacts led me to executive recruiters. Every recruiter who
knew Ed mentioned their respect for him and the firm.
It was directly through this networking that I learned of several key
opportunities.
Additionally, the networking with other Kelleher clients proved helpful.
Among the clients we developed a unique comradeship that led to exchanges of
current opportunities specific to an individual’s skill set.
Were there any other benefits that you realized?
In the early days I needed help with organizing and setting up for the search
process. Kelleher staff stepped up to help me in this regard. They are
professionals—competent and caring. The structure of having an office to work
from and being in a supportive environment was definitely helpful.
Al Kramer, Mitch Wienick and Lee Curry, Ed’s colleagues, were
generous with their time, providing contacts and additional brainstorming.
What lessons did you learn during your transition?
I learned to slow down and listen to others who suggested different approaches
to a situation. Also, to maintain and enhance my network on a consistent basis.
Do you have advice for others going through career transition?
1 - A key to the process is having an excellent coach.
2 - Understand that there can be difficult days – it’s a change in the rhythm of
your life.
3 - Be patient – wait for the position that really suits you. It’s natural to
want to get re-situated as quickly as possible. However, settling with a company
that is not the right fit for you will lead to a repeat of the current
situation.
Would you recommend Kelleher Associates to other executives conducting a job
search?
Absolutely! There is no one else I would recommend. It’s a special place to
conduct an aggressive search while going through a difficult period of your
life.
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