Mike Romano has worked as a general manager as well as a vice president of finance and administration for a global medical publishing company. He recently joined a local tax and accounting firm as an equity partner with the right to purchase the firm over the next few years.

How did you learn about Kelleher Associates?

I was introduced to Mitch Wienick, President and CEO of Kelleher Associates, by my father.  They had originally connected at a networking event.

Why did you choose Kelleher Associates for your Career Transition services?

I first met Mitch about two years before leaving my prior position.  We began to build a networking relationship, and Mitch counseled me through some scenario planning.  When I was laid off from that position, I decided to work with Mitch and his team.

What Kelleher services proved to be especially valuable during your search?

I found the most significant value in my one-on-one coaching and professional development sessions with Mitch.  He helped me through every aspect of the search process – from updating my resume and teaching me the importance of networking – to coaching me through interview preparation and follow-up. From start to finish, Mitch served as an indispensable guide.

You recently took an unconventional career step and purchased an ownership interest in a local tax and accounting firm as a partner with the right to purchase the entire firm over the next few years. How did Kelleher Associates help you in the process of evaluating this opportunity versus a more conventional corporate role, finding professional service providers to help you structure the deal, help you negotiate with the seller, and support you during this process?

Mitch helped me evaluate both potential career paths – conventional and non-conventional – by defining my short and long-term goals, as well as the job satisfaction and growth potential represented by each.  He provided much support and guidance, allowing me the flexibility to explore multiple avenues.  When I decided to go with the more non-conventional career opportunity, Mitch helped me find a transaction attorney to structure the deal.

What did you like best about working with Kelleher Associates?

My relationship with Mitch was the best part about working with Kelleher Associates.  He was very supportive and trustworthy, and our working relationship was highly productive.

One of my most significant key learnings was the SITUATION-ACTION-RESULT (SAR) interview response technique.  This exercise proved fruitful throughout the search process and helped me articulate some of my best career successes both succinctly and effectively. 

The SAR technique also helped me define my individual value proposition, which I utilized many times throughout the interview process.  It is so important to develop this proposition and be able to articulate it clearly and concisely to a prospective employer.

Finally, Kelleher Associates helped me develop a very professional, impressive resume, as well educate me on the utmost value of networking at every opportunity.  As Mitch would say, we should all be “networking, networking, networking…and then networking some more.”

Would you recommend Kelleher Associates to others and why?

I would absolutely recommend Kelleher Associates to others.  Mitch Wienick is simply the best in the business – he has an abundance of wisdom and experience which he imparts on all those fortunate enough to work with him.  I learned so much about the search process though his sharing of examples and anecdotal storytelling.  He is also especially compassionate and empathetic towards those going through what can often be a difficult and stressful situation.  Finally, the Kelleher Associates administrative staff – including Karen, Diana and Marcella – are all pros who round out a stellar team of HR professionals.