Need: Seeking a New United Way Executive Director serving three Ohio counties
Service: Regional search for talent to lead, revitalize, and grow this United Way
Organization: United Way of Muskingum, Perry & Morgan Counties (UWMPM)
With the departure of its long-serving Executive Director, the Board and Search Committee sought out and turned to Cincinnati-based The Yunker Group to conduct the organization’s first executive search in 16 years.
Leah Vensil DSW, Chair, UWMPM Board and Search Committee…
“Working with Jim, Jody and Irene at The Yunker Group was absolutely the best decision we could have ever made. As an all-volunteer Search Committee, none of us at UWMPM had been involved in an executive search. Jim and his team graciously guided us through every step, always asking our input as to what we wanted and needed in a new director, our knowledge of the market, and how we saw the future unfolding. They listened to us, were respectful of our time, and kept us informed as to what to expect next, and hours to allocate. They were entirely flexible in working around our needs and commitments.”
“I personally appreciated how smoothly the whole process went. Jim led the way, along with Jody’s and Irene’s meticulous handling of candidate testing, administrative duties, and keeping us routinely informed of progress, status, and happily answering any questions we had. One thing I especially admired was how respectful The Yunker Group was of each candidate, protecting the confidentiality of their names, privacy and personal information. I can’t speak highly enough of The Yunker Group and know we couldn’t have done this without them.”
Tracey Ballas, UWMPM New Executive Director…
“Attracted by the executive-level leadership position for a nonprofit, and being familiar with how the United Way helps to build a bridge out of poverty for vulnerable populations, I responded to the UWMPM job posting in March and heard back from The Yunker Group almost immediately.”
“That was the start of a very layered and in-depth application process. It was extraordinary, but in a good way. The attention to detail and thoroughness was exemplary. Same for the attention they showed me. I knew I was being heard and taken seriously, and that felt really good. From initial Zoom calls, to face-to-face interviews, to essay questions to answer, background and reference checks, Jim, Jody and Irene were consummate professionals, always thoughtful, caring and respectful of me and my time.”
“All of the preparation The Yunker Group did in the background to talk to staff, community members, and Board members ultimately helped to set up both the UWMPM and me for success. Jim and his team don’t follow a routine playbook. Everything is customized –– this organization, this moment, this position.”
“I would recommend The Yunker Group to any nonprofit organization interested in finding the right candidate.”