I am proud to have another article, They’re Just Not That Into You, on Thrive Global!
My Article, They’re Just Not That Into You, Appears on Thrive Global!
Should Resumes be a Photo-Free Zone?
Ask five people if you should have a photo on a resume, and you’ll likely get a tie in votes. Two will say yes, two will say no, and one will waffle.
Those who are pro-photo tell me that it humanizes the resume, puts a face to a name, and can help candidates stand out among the pile of resumes.
My vote on the topic is to say no to the photo. Hiring managers go out of their way to eliminate bias, in some cases even redacting applicant names to reduce the risk of bias. Add a photo and they will be able to make assumptions on things like age, race, and gender. Who wants that? Sure, a hiring manager can hop over to LinkedIn and view your profile picture, but at least their first glance at your qualifications will be just that: a focus on what qualifies you for the job, and not what you look like.
Lights…Cameras…Your LinkedIn Profile Picture!
In the acting world, headshots are a must for actors and actresses, whether they are just starting out or have reached “celebrity” status. Headshots are their calling cards.
Treat your LinkedIn profile picture as if you were in Los Angeles or New York chasing a big acting job and as if that picture were your calling card. It is often the first impression that you will make on potential clients, employers, and vendors. Make sure that the impression you leave is a positive one. Plus, you may not be actively looking for a new job, but you never know when a hiring manager or executive recruiter will be looking around on LinkedIn and come across your profile.
I recently updated my own profile picture, and in the process did my research asked some friends who are photographers and in the image business to give their suggestions for a great headshot. Here are some tips for a winning profile picture:
- Hire a professional, or ask a friend who takes good pictures to help out
- Thou shalt not take a selfie. Deb Liljegren, NYC-based photographer, tells me that your outstretched arms may not be visible, but you are not fooling anyone. Selfie sticks do not help, either. There is a clear difference between a DIY picture and one taken by someone else
- Susan Tran, a photographer in Boston who did my recent photo, suggests that people smile big but not TOO big. According to her, too big a smile can look forced. Think of someone who makes you happy so that you capture your most natural smile
- Boston photographer Stephanie Olsen says to BREATHE! Stephanie points out that everyone holds their breath when being photographed. This makes their shoulders rise up a bit and does not let their true smile come through. Stephanie guides people by telling them to exhale a smile. This also make them a laugh a bit and the smiles that follow are the most natural.
- Wear professional attire suitable to your industry. Dark colors work well so long as you do not have a dark background, in which case you would want lighter attire. Contrast will make the picture “pop”. Avoid prints, which can be too busy and could blend into the background
- According to Brad Duncan, Boston’s top skincare guru, you should exfoliate your face a few days prior to the photo and drink tons of water in the days leading up to the photo being taken. This will help skin look smoother and more even in the photo
- If you wear makeup, go for a lighter hand for a soft effect. Pretend you are going for that soft, fuzzy, super-forgiving Barbara Walters interview lighting
- Speaking of lighting, Deb Liljegren also suggests shooting outside or near a window with filtered lighting
Remember, LinkedIn is a professional networking site and your photo should reflect that and portray your best you.
New Search Announcement! WildAid’s Managing Director of U.S. Operations
Pillar Search is pleased to have been selected to partner with WildAid on their search for the new role of Managing Director, U.S. Operations.
ABOUT WILDAID
Founded in 1999, WildAid is an international organization based in San Francisco, CA. WildAid’s mission is to end the illegal wildlife trade in our lifetimes. WildAid envisions a world where people no longer buy wildlife products such as shark fin, elephant ivory and rhino horn.
While most wildlife conservation groups focus on protecting animals from poaching, WildAid works to reduce global consumption of wildlife products by persuading consumers and strengthening enforcement.
With an unrivaled portfolio of celebrity ambassadors and global network of media partners, WildAid leverages nearly $200 million in annual pro-bono media support. Their message reaches up to 1 billion people every week.
WildAid’s strategy for achieving this goal is to reduce demand for these products using their slogan When the Buying Stops, the Killing Can Too.
THE OPPORTUNITY
Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the Managing Director – Programs (MDP) in his absence, the Managing Director – US Operations (MDUS) will primarily be a manager, overseeing all US staff. The MDUS will assess and ensure organizational performance in areas both internal and external: non-programmatic fundraising, finance/accounting, human resources, information technology and organizational communication, against the annual budget, work plan, and strategic plan.
The MDUS will be responsible for recruiting and hiring all US staff and managing their well being. S/he will bring her/his experience and talent to bear on improving the global organization infrastructure to accommodate continued growth and geographic expansion. S/he will plan and lead the organizations non-programmatic fundraising and non-programmatic organizational communications strategy and should have extensive experience in both areas. Currently funding is mainly foundation and high net worth individual driven. The organization raises approximately $10 million annually.
The MDUS serves as counsel on short- and long-term fundraising, financial, staffing, and administrative decisions. S/he will set goals, monitor work, and evaluate results to meet departmental and cross organizational objectives. The role also includes oversight of WildAid’s headquarter operations and international administration and fundraising, as well as maintaining close professional relationships with staff in all locations to facilitate innovative and effective policies and procedures. They will negotiate and manage external vendor relationships such as legal counsel, insurance, technology providers, and facilities.
The MDUS will have the depth of financial experience to ensure compliance with audits, as well as regulatory and government requirements. This individual will collaborate with the Controller to oversee investment and asset management, the annual budgeting process, and ensure that multi-year financial modeling is consistent with strategic plans.
Finally, the MDUS will oversee HR strategies for recruiting, retaining, and training WildAid’s global workforce. The strategies will ensure the alignment of HR systems, compensation and benefits, and implementing a performance management system with the goals of the organization. S/he will also play a key role as champion of WildAid’s values-based positive culture.
KEY PRIORITIES
The MDUS will examine the current operational systems in place, apply global best practices and strategize with the CEO to improve efficiency and implement solutions to support the organization as it continues to scale. They will build a cohesive team that includes necessary expertise in donor relations and fundraising, finance and accounting, technology, human resource and administrative support services that work collaboratively to advance WildAid’s mission. Specific duties within key areas include:
Fundraising/Donor Relations
- Development: Work closely with the CEO and the MDP to meet aggressive fundraising goals; drive the execution of annual development plans for foundations, high net worth individuals, special events & other alternative sources of income.
- Coordination: working internally and externally to ensure that all program, development, and communication initiatives are aligned and well-coordinated.
Human Resources
Manage and oversee the human resource function for WildAid, including:
- Recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits administration and performance management.
- Design an execution of systems to develop, motivate, and retain top talent.
- Create a more unified team across departments and offices.
Management
- Work plans and operations: Together with the CEO and MDP, develop and implement coordinated country and program strategies and work plans for non-programmatic staff, and monitor progress against metrics and milestones.
- Board of Directors: working with the CEO, provide staff support and guidance to WildAid’s Board and act as staff liaison to relevant board committees.
- Office leadership: Effectively execute standardized policies and procedures across regional offices in the San Francisco headquarters and country offices.
- Risk management and legal activities: implement letters of agreement, contracts, leases, and other legal documents.
- Information technology: ensure the ongoing maintenance and updating of information systems and infrastructure, including hardware, software, and necessary applications.
- S/he will manage the non-programmatic budget and the following direct reports: Major Gifts and Events Planner, Development Assistant, Controller, Communications Manager, Administrator Associate, and Social Media Manager. SF-based Video Editor, Video Producer, Climate Campaigner, US Campaigner (open), US Media Manager (open) will also be managed as well from a human resources aspect, but these positions will fall under the Managing Director – Programs in terms of direction.
Financial Management and Oversight
Working with the Controller, manage and oversee all financial and business planning activities, including:
- Lead and support organizational budgeting process, including development of an annual operating plan with programmatic milestones and targets/deliverables linked to budgets.
- Direct and administer all financial planning and provide overall financial oversight and monitoring.
- Support and advise the CEO in decision-making and review and analyze financial reports and ensure that relevant financial data is presented to the CEO and Board of Directors.
KEY COMPETENCIES AND IDEAL PROFILE
WildAid seeks a passionate, experienced team player, who is deeply committed to WildAid’s mission to end the illegal wildlife trade. This individual will have senior management experience in fundraising, human resources, operations, and finance/accounting and have an understanding of nonprofit budget models. The successful candidate will have worked with senior-level stakeholders, such as a Board of Directors, leadership teams, and country directors, to secure commitments and manage execution against shared objectives
Since WildAid is a global organization undergoing rapid growth, the ideal candidate will share best practices for creating the proper infrastructure, systems, and processes to allow for sustainable expansion. Ideally, candidates will have spent part of their career working in the area of international conservation.
The successful candidate will be a pragmatic, action-oriented leader who will enjoys working in an entrepreneurial environment. The MDUS will think strategically and creatively; this leader will need experience identifying problems and implementing solutions and best practices. S/he will be a big picture thinker, but will also possess a strong work ethic and ability to act as a hands-on manager when necessary. This individual will show sensitivity and the ability to establish respect, credibility and trust with regional office staff and in multicultural settings. The successful candidate will be comfortable with ambiguity and excited by the opportunity to work in a dynamic, nimble, start-up-like environment. The MDUS will need to remain organized and calm when under pressure.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
The candidate should have a minimum of 15 years related work experience in relevant positions of increasing scope and responsibility and possess excellent management and people skills, and personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and a commitment to WildAid’s mission. An ability to fundraise on a large scale is required. Proven experience working for an international and/or nonprofit organization in a similar capacity is highly desired. A Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field is required. An advanced degree in business, finance, or a related field is preferred.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
WildAid is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. For immediate consideration, please address a cover letter and resume to Cindy Joyce, Pillar Search, at cindyjoyce@pillarsearch.com.
Announcing the Search for the President of Yestermorrow Design/Build School in Waitsfield, VT
Pillar Search is pleased to announce the search for Yestermorrow Design/Build School in Vermont.
With personalized service and proven results, Pillar is your partner in executive search and human resources consulting. With over 20 years of experience, Pillar provides national retained search services for exceptional non-profits and foundations and early-stage or rapid growth for-profit firms. All share the characteristic of desiring top talent who want an occupassion, not just an occupation. In addition, Pillar offers human resources consulting services, which was born of clients requesting help on projects beyond executive search, and includes human resources audits, creating a handbook, assessing organizational design, training, team building, and employee communications. A woman-owned business, Pillar is based in Boston, MA, and works on both a local and national level.
To contact Pillar, please click here.
President
Overview:
Yestermorrow Design/Build School is a 501(c)3 non-profit educational organization located in the Mad River Valley of Vermont offering workshops, certificate programs and semester programs for adult students from around the country.
Yestermorrow’s mission is to inspire people to create a better, more sustainable world by providing hands-on education that integrates design and craft as a creative, interactive process. The intensive and experiential curriculum includes a wide variety of topics related to sustainable design, green building, architectural craft, and furniture making.
This is an exciting opportunity for a strong leader with a deep familiarity with and passion for architecture, design/build, sustainable and energy-conscious construction methods and experiential education. Positive, dynamic, and high energy, the President will be able to look at the big picture and identify future opportunities while managing the day-to-day activities and operations of Yestermorrow Design/Build School.
As an employer, Yestermorrow offers a supportive, collegial, entrepreneurial and inclusive working environment that fosters creativity of students, faculty and staff.
For more information about Yestermorrow, please visit www.yestermorrow.org.
Location:
Yestermorrow is located in Waitsfield, VT, which has been named “Best Town” and “Best Ski Town” by Outside Magazine. According to the New York Times, “”Well known as a winter skiing destination — it is home to the sprawling Sugarbush resort and ‘ski it if you can’ Mad River Glen — the valley reveals itself in warmer weather, when history, culture and a hyperlocal food scene come to the fore.”
Situated between the Sugarbush and Mad River Glen mountain resorts, Waitsfield is welcoming, easy going and breathtaking. For more information on Mad River Valley, please visit http://www.madrivervalley.com/.
The Opportunity:
The President is responsible for the fiscal, programmatic and functional health of the organization, in addition to serving as the primary advocate for its mission and steward of its reputation. As a school known for innovation, the President will foster a culture of thinking outside the box and creative experimentation to help Yestermorrow continue to be a place of cutting-edge design education.
The President will report to the Board of Directors through its Executive Committee.
Specifically, the President is responsible for all aspects of the school’s operations, including:
- Spearhead all fundraising activities for the school, including diversifying fundraising efforts to include major gifts, corporate and foundation giving, events, and planned giving
- Supervise the ongoing, phased implementation of the new comprehensive master plan for the school’s campus, including the construction of new shop and studio spaces, residences and other site improvements.
- Provide strong leadership and management to staff and faculty
- Raise regional, national, and international visibility
- Expand programs and outreach while maintaining the high quality of current programs
- Develop, implement, and oversee a strategic plan for Yestermorrow
Please note that this is a year-round position.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities:
Leadership, Management and Mentoring:
- Inspire and motivate staff, the board, faculty, donors and others to advance and achieve Yestermorrow’s mission.
- Hire, manage and leads Yestermorrow’s diverse administrative staff of seven (7) including individual staff managers for curriculum, enrollment, operations, facilities, development and communications, and semester programs.
- Serve as the public face and chief spokesperson for Yestermorrow, and advocate for its mission and goals within the greater community served by the school.
- Liaise with Board of Directors and work closely with all committees and working groups to ensure that board and committee meetings run smoothly and board efforts are coordinated and effectively targeted.
- Develop a consensus-based strategic vision of the next phase of Yestermorrow’s growth, and build enduring support and relationships among diverse audiences and communities around it.
- Manage with an inclusive and flexible style, combined with appropriate decisiveness, emphasis on accountability and ability to delegate.
- Clearly define goals with each staff member and develop results-focused performance metrics to ensure that goals and expectations are clearly communicated and that each employee is given opportunities to grow and be challenged in their roles.
- Regularly communicate with school’s faculty and incorporate their vision, interests and concerns into organizational planning.
- Create and implement effective operating systems to achieve the goal of organizational excellence.
Development, Fundraising, Community Relations and Outreach:
- Implement and complete an estimated $3 million capital campaign. This important fundraising effort will support the expansion of Yestermorrow’s campus, including new studio space, dormitories, and the restoration of existing buildings. The President will work closely with the Board of Directors, Development Manager, staff and faculty to carry out a broad-based fundraising plan targeting individuals, corporations, foundations and government agencies to support this initiative.
- Establish fundraising priorities to reach new audiences by directing marketing and outreach strategy (including alumni, parents, and “friends of Yestermorrow”).
- Develop and lead the fundraising efforts and identify ways to diversifying fundraising to include, in addition to annual giving, a major donor effort, special events, planned giving, grant research and writing, annual appeals, and endowment stewardship.
- Initiate, develop and support strategic initiatives, partnerships, alliances and collaborations with relevant institutions.
- Travel will be required to present to diverse audiences about Yestermorrow’s programs and impacts.
Administration & Finance:
- Facilitate and manage Yestermorrow’s financial and administrative work, including overseeing the preparation, monitoring and reporting of annual budgets and work plans.
Qualifications, Skills & Abilities:
The President will be a strategic thinker, a decisive manager, a proven team builder, a compelling communicator, and an effective and enthusiastic fundraiser.
He/she must be capable of managing a complex organization during a time of significant growth and change. He/she must have demonstrated experience as an Executive Director, President or equivalent, managing comparable staff and budgets, contracts, fiscal reporting, fundraising, outreach and marketing, and organizational development, as well as liaising with the board.
The position demands an entrepreneurial spirit – someone with a talent for articulating new opportunities, and a track record of implementing them.
The successful candidate will have the following:
Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree. Advanced degree is strongly preferred.
- At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience with private non-profit or public sector organizations.
- Experience professionally, or passion personally, for design.
- Proven experience in leadership roles, including the management of comparably sized staff and budget.
- Strong fundraising experience is essential, including experience across the spectrum of development.
- Experience either running a capital campaign or having participated in a significant manner in the successful completion of a capital campaign.
- A track record with the outreach, community building, and public relations side of running a mission-driven institution.
- Experience managing an institution during a time of major growth.
- Excellent speaking, writing and presentation skills.
- Computer literacy, Internet savvy, and comfort communicating in a variety of digital and other media.
- Occasional travel and evening and weekend work is required.
The salary for this opportunity is competitive and commensurate with experience.
For Immediate Consideration:
This search is being managed by Pillar Search. To apply, please send your cover letter and resume, including salary requirements, to Cindy Joyce at cindy@pillarsearch.com.
