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Catherine Kift
Director, Starfish Search-07591 952632
Professional Background
Catherine Kift is a distinguished leader in the field of executive recruitment, bringing an impressive 18 years of experience focused on leadership hiring across various sectors. With a notable emphasis on securing interim executive leaders, Catherine has established herself as a prominent figure in the recruitment industry, renowned for her expertise at the board level. Over the past four years, she has redirected her efforts towards the Not for Profit Sector, effectively matching organizations with some of the top interim Chief Executives hailing from the voluntary, public, and private sectors. In her role as Director at Starfish Search, Catherine's commitment to her clients is evident; she believes in a collaborative and partnered approach to executive search.
With her extensive experience, Catherine understands the unique dynamics of leadership, especially during periods of crisis or change. Her professional journey is marked by her authentic and pragmatic philosophy, which greatly enhances her effectiveness in matching the right leaders to the right challenges. She recognizes that contextual factors play a pivotal role in the recruitment process, particularly for interim roles. This insight into the intricacies of leadership needs allows her to make informed recommendations that resonate with both organizations and candidates.
Beyond her recruitment skills, Catherine is also a thought leader in the evolving landscape of leadership trends. She leads comprehensive analyses on changing paradigms, including the burgeoning influence of millennial leaders in key positions. Her focus on these shifts not only enriches her recruitment efforts but also positions her clients to stay ahead in the competitive landscape.
Education and Achievements
Catherine Kift holds a BSc Honours degree from Cardiff University (Prifysgol Caerdydd), where she developed a strong foundation in her field. This academic background has been instrumental in shaping her analytical skills and understanding of organizational behavior, both of which are critical in the recruitment process. Her education, paired with nearly two decades of hands-on experience, positions Catherine as a well-rounded expert in her domain.
Throughout her career, Catherine has held several notable positions that further demonstrate her expertise and leadership in recruitment:
- Director at Starfish Search: Leading the recruitment efforts while specializing in interim executive placement, particularly within the Not for Profit Sector.
- Formerly Partner of Interim Leadership at GatenbySanderson: Here, Catherine was responsible for steering the company's direction in interim leadership, showcasing her leadership and strategic planning capabilities.
- Sector Lead at Penna: This role allowed Catherine to focus her talents on specific sectors, promoting targeted recruitment strategies.
- Director - Interim Management at Veredus UK: Catherine played a critical role in managing interim leadership placements across various sectors, refining her expertise in aligning organizational needs with executive talent.
- Business Manager - Public Services at Hays Accountancy & Finance: This position provided Catherine with a deep understanding of the public service sector, which has informed her approach to recruitment.
These positions have collectively honed Catherine's skills, enabling her to navigate the complexities of leadership recruitment effectively.
Achievements
Catherine's journey in the recruitment space is punctuated with numerous achievements that underscore her commitment to excellence and innovation. Her specialization has allowed her to become a trusted advisor and partner for organizations seeking interim leadership solutions. Her insights into the non-profit sector, specifically, have facilitated the placement of accomplished leaders who elevate organizational performance during tumultuous times.
Moreover, Catherine’s leadership in analyzing changing trends in recruitment and leadership dynamics has put her at the forefront of conversations regarding the evolving nature of leadership in today's world. As she examines the rise of millennial leaders, she actively contributes to a dialogue that helps organizations adapt their hiring practices to embrace the next generation of leadership. By anticipating shifts and aligning recruitment practices with these emerging trends, Catherine ensures that her clients are not only prepared for current demands but are also positioned to thrive in the future.
Through her seasoned background, Catherine Kift has established herself as a key player in the recruitment landscape, particularly in the realm of interim leadership. Her blend of professionalism, insight, and commitment to partnership makes her a respected figure among clients and candidates alike, fostering an environment that champions shared success.
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