From time to time we interview a client or former client about his or her career transition and their experience with Kelleher Associates. 

Mark Balawejder

Mark Balawejder is an Information Technology Executive with diverse experience in prominent financial services, technology and consulting organizations, both public and privately held. His recent transition took him from being a key member of MBNA’s senior operating team to SVP of Outsourcing at CDI IT Solutions.

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Your employer supported you with career transition assistance with a firm of their choice. What was your expectation?
I had not been through a change in 12 years. I felt that critical to a successful transition would be high level, individualized coaching. Not long after starting with the outplacement firm to which I was directed, I realized that the coaching was delivered ‘one size fits all’. Executives and administrative workers were all in the same room. This did not meet my needs and expectations.

What determination did you make regarding a career coach?
Ed Kelleher was referred to me by a former client of his who suggested that Kelleher Associates was the place for someone like me to go. Since my company had sponsored me to another firm, I retained that affiliation for certain elements, but personally engaged Ed Kelleher to be my individual career coach.
Of greatest value was the personalized service provided by Ed and his entire team – it was a strong coordinated effort. Ed was the calming influence who provided assurance throughout the process.
Al Kramer led me through interview training, an invaluable exercise. Al also referred leads to me. Marcella and her support team always made me feel welcome and were attentive to my needs.

How did you find opportunities?
I joined the Greater Philadelphia Senior Executive Group (GPSEG) and am a member of Tech Sub-Group. GPSEG (Ed is a member and it was with his encouragement that I joined) proved to be an excellent source of leads, and contacts. I heartily endorse GPSEG for seniors in transition.

How did you “land” at CDI?
A former client of Ed’s (Andy Cvitanov) is the President of CDI, IT Solutions Group. Ed and Andy have stayed in contact and Andy had shared some of his organizational needs with Ed who introduced (and endorsed) me to Andy… and the rest, as they say, is history.
Not completely. It turns out that Mitch Wienick, Ed’s partner at Kelleher Associates, is the former CEO of CDI Corp. Mitch provided excellent insights and guidance to me as well.

Do you have any advice for other executives going through transition?

1. There will be highs and lows. Try to stay focused forward, and be positive.
2. Network, network, network. Join appropriate professional networking groups; actively and constructively use them.
3. See if you can get inside the “Kelleher Circle” – clients, former clients, friends, staff, etc. It’s a powerful and supportive network.