Bill Wilkins is an entrepreneurial C-level leader with international experience in specialty engineered products. Bill is currently Vice President, Global Supply Chain, for Minerals Technologies, a resource and technology-based company that develops, produces and markets a broad range of specialty minerals products world-wide. Sales in 2006 exceeded $1 billion.

How did you learn about Kelleher Associates, Inc.?

I was referred to Mitch Wienick, a partner at Kelleher Associates, by several executives. Each basically said you really need to talk to Mitch. As a former CEO, he understands what it takes to run a business.

Why did you decide to engage Mitch Wienick as your career coach?

It was my desire to stay in the area and the Kelleher name came up as one of the most networked career management groups in the region. Being out of the area for some time, my network was not strong so I was looking for good advice in developing my strategy, an accelerated process for doing so, and assistance in strengthening my network in the Delaware Valley.

In addition to Mitch’s extensive background as a senior business leader (his senior roles included being President/CEO of NYSE listed CDI Corporation, and President of Ameritech Consumer Services), he is a well-known and respected career and executive coach.

What elements of the coaching had the greatest value in your search?

With prior CEO and CFO roles in both private equity owned and public companies, I was particularly interested in a CEO or Division President position in a public company.

Mitch’s wisdom and guidance were instrumental in narrowing my focus which was a critical component in successfully conducting my search.

Also, I found the emotional support I received early on effective in putting the shock and stress of job loss behind me.

Mitch, along with the whole Kelleher organization and other clients, were helpful in casting a wide net over the Philadelphia area.

In addition, I benefited from genuine help in constructing and editing my resume, personal introductions to recruiters, and valuable access to a search database offered to Kelleher clients.

What advice would you give others at the senior level?

Be proactive, not reactive. If, like me, you do not have a corporate sponsor or access to one, don’t wait until you find yourself in career jeopardy on the job.

When initiating your search, make a decision regarding a point in time to reconsider the geographic focus of your search (local versus regional versus national) as I did.

If it is not in your nature to be disciplined in conducting your search, make the most of your career management firm’s office and support services to provide the structure you need and enhance your ability to focus.

In negotiating your starting package, try to include outplacement support, with you having your choice of firms.

And, as espoused by Ed and others at Kelleher, networking is for life. Make the conscious effort to network when you are fully employed. It’s not just what you can learn and receive; it’s also about what you can give.

Would you recommend Kelleher Associates to others?

Absolutely!