With 25 years experience in Healthcare, John Regina successfully moved from SVP, Human Resources at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, to lead HR at a small privately held candy manufacturing and promotion company close to home.

KA:
How was your career transition initiated?

JR:
I knew a year in advance of my separation and began my networking during those months.  During this time I was introduced to Al Kramer through the search firm who was recruiting for my replacement.  Al lent professional support during this unofficial job search period.  When I was offered outplacement and Al introduced me to Ellen Mallin, it became clear that she could help me polish my job search skills.  I sensed from both of them that I would receive individual attention at Kelleher Associates.

I live several hours from Kelleher’s office.  Ellen had so much to offer me that I traveled several hours for our initial meetings.  She structured the coaching sessions to maximize face time by meeting me half-way and working remotely by phone and email.  It worked really well. I was very pleased with this access to Ellen and the quality of her coaching.

KA:
Specifically what did you work on with Ellen?

JR:
I had to learn to self-promote.  Ellen helped me to articulate my achievements, hone my elevator speech and express myself more succinctly.

As a former executive recruiter, Ellen offered invaluable insights, particularly in preparing me for the informal and formal interviews.  She helped me fine tune my ‘story’ to maximize the time and opportunities I would have to tell it.

KA:
What did you find challenging in your search?

JR:
Potential employers and recruiters were hesitant to consider that I could effectively cross industry lines.  So it was not only selling myself, but working at removing this barrier.  I spent time educating decision makers in different industries that as unique as theirs may be, a lot can be learned by crossing industry lines and bringing in other experience.  Employers know what they want, not necessarily what they need.

KA:
How did you find your position?

JR:
The initial interview with “Promotion in Motion” was a product of my network.  Ellen prep’ed me, we had a second interview and then it was a matter of fleshing out the offer.

KA:
What made the process work for you?

JR:
Initially it was the comfort level I felt with my coach.  Ellen’s coaching style, structuring productive sessions, and her accessibility, showed commitment to me.  She gave me the tools for a successful search and I realized maximum benefit.