Tom Kotek

Professional Background

Tom Kotek is an accomplished professional in the field of talent acquisition, boasting a wealth of experience across various industries, notably in retail and food & beverage. With an impressive career trajectory, Tom has cultivated a strong background in negotiating talent strategies and effectively sourcing top-tier candidates. Currently, he serves as the Head of Talent Acquisition at Red Bull, where he plays a critical role in driving the company’s recruitment efforts and fostering a dynamic workforce.

Before joining Red Bull, Tom dedicated a significant portion of his career to Sears Holdings Corporation, ascending through various roles that showcased his expertise and leadership in talent acquisition. His journey at Sears began as a Corporate Recruiter in the Online Business Unit, where Tom quickly distinguished himself through his recruitment acumen. Over the years, he progressed to the ranks of Senior Recruiting Manager and ultimately held the position of Director of Corporate Talent Acquisition. In these roles, he was instrumental in shaping the talent landscape of the organization, demonstrating profound skills in strategic sourcing and management that contributed to the hiring of high-caliber professionals.

Prior to his extensive tenure at Sears, Tom applied his recruiting knowledge at Systems Research Inc. (SRI), where he served both as a Recruiting Manager and Client Manager within the Global Executive Search Practice. His role at SRI provided him with a solid foundation in executive recruitment, refining his ability to match organizations with exceptional talent across various sectors.

Education and Achievements

Tom Kotek attended Western Illinois University, where he studied Business Management. His educational background equipped him with fundamental principles of management, organization, and effective business practices, which he has successfully implemented throughout his professional career.

Tom's career—marked by consistent advancement and significant contributions—reflects his dedication to talent acquisition and his ability to employ strategic thinking within business development. His proven track record in negotiation and sales further enhances his qualifications, making him a valuable asset to any team.

Achievements

Throughout his career, Tom has made remarkable contributions not only in terms of recruitment but also in the broader context of organizational growth and employee development. Some of his notable achievements include:

• Successfully leading the hiring initiatives at Red Bull, ensuring that the organization attracts and retains innovative talent that drives performance.
• Facilitating the talent acquisition strategy at Sears Holdings Corporation, which led to improved employee retention and satisfaction rates.
• Developing comprehensive recruitment processes that enhanced sourcing strategies and accelerated time-to-fill positions while maintaining high-quality standards for candidates.
• Building strong relationships with various stakeholders to align hiring goals with overall business objectives, demonstrating his capability in managing complex recruitment projects.

In summary, Tom Kotek is a seasoned Talent Acquisition professional whose extensive experience in recruitment and human resources has positioned him as a thought leader in his field. Through his various roles in leading organizations, Tom has demonstrated an exceptional ability to connect businesses with the right talent, fulfilling strategic needs and contributing to overall organizational success.