Need: To find an experienced pro to lead an I/DD residential agency
Service: Comprehensive executive search
Organization: Resident Home Association of Greater Dayton (RHA)
Following retirement of its long-serving Executive Director, the RHA Board of Directors asked two senior staff members to co-lead the organization before engaging The Yunker Group for a comprehensive Executive Director search. The Board’s expectations of the next Director included prior residential experience in the Intellectual and Developmental Disability field, exemplary communication skills, temerity to question status quo, and the temperament to bring together staff and board to energize a united plan to thrive among future challenges.
Resident Home Association Board Chair, Gary Newton:
“Jim Yunker knew and understood that in our considering both internal and external candidates, we were facing a delicate situation. He maneuvered personalities and feelings with grace and an open mind. I was truly impressed with the professionalism of The Yunker Group team throughout the entire process. They made sure all players had input and that everyone was sincerely heard and acknowledged.”
“Despite the strict parameters we gave The Yunker Group and the inherent challenges of the industry, they responded with a broad network of quality talent and, more specifically, the awareness and experience of where to look for top candidates. They provided us with seven viable candidates, narrowed to four and ultimately to two finalists. We were delighted with the quality of talent they presented and are thrilled with our choice in Keith Poynter.”
“I can’t say enough good things about the actual process. Jim and Jody Duckwall were well organized and kept our group moving along effortlessly. It was a surprisingly enjoyable experience. They used our time very well. Meetings were meaningful and called only when needed. Communication from The Yunker Group was excellent. They always kept us well informed. We knew where things stood, where we were in the search process, and what was next. Also, confidentiality was explicit.”
“The Yunker Group is the perfect mixture of professionalism and personable approach. Their professionalism brought us confidence. Their approachable style brought us great comfort. My advice for other nonprofit organizations looking for a search firm is to put time into the selection of a search firm and let the search firm find the candidates. When you do your homework, it will lead you to The Yunker Group.”
Founded in 1966, Resident Home Association of Greater Dayton provides an array of services to residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities in its seven-owned homes and six additional sites in Montgomery County, Ohio.