The Ward Group: Client Services

Why use a retained search firm like The Ward Group?
We like to think of our relationships with our clients as a partnership—the goal being to attract the best talent in a timely manner for our clients' needs. By working in a retainer relationship, we commit to completing the search in a timely manner to your utmost satisfaction. We do this by putting the appropriate team together, all experts in recruiting and in marketing and communications, to meet your timeline. Because we work in partnership with our clients, our counsel is often sought on a range of issues that impact recruiting, such as internal management and organizational structure issues.

What are the benefits of retaining a functionally specialized search firm?
Because we are not generalists, we bring deep experience and market knowledge in all areas of marketing; this results in our ability to conduct searches efficiently and effectively. We use our intellectual capital to the benefit of clients—for example, we have past experience that gives us insights into why an individual has been successful in a particular industry and function. We also help clients recognize the real stars. Rather than simply identifying someone to fill a position, we assess all the characteristics (experience, pedigree, personality) that determine whether someone is going to be the right fit and ultimately succeed.

What are some examples of the functional areas in marketing for which you recruit?
Brand/Product Management
Strategic Planning
Marketing Consulting
Advertising
Relationship Marketing/Direct Marketing
Public Relations
Marketing Communications
Media
Digital Marketing/Interactive/E-commerce
Business Development

Do you specialize in any industries?
We handle engagements in a variety of industries, particularly those which are marketing-driven or where marketing is emerging as a critical function. These industries include consumer products, financial services, technology, professional services, and higher education/not-for-profit, among others.

Do you have a salary level under which you do not conduct searches?
While the majority of our searches are at an executive level, we have built marketing organizations that include positions at more junior levels.

Do you recruit nationally?
Yes, we have both a national client and candidate base.

How long does the average search take?
Several factors can influence the duration of a search (location, level, confidentiality, etc.). Generally searches take from two to three months, though in cases where speed is of utmost importance, we develop unique programs to accommodate those circumstances.