Tom Loane is a global Information Technology Executive with multi-industry experience. As a builder of high performance IT teams and a business leader with financial skills, Tom recognized the need for high-level coaching in his search. Mannkind, a NASDAQ traded company, needed a VP of IT with strong strategic planning and business solutions experience for their development and commercialization of a diabetes treatment.

How did you find Kelleher Associates and why did you decide to work with Ed Kelleher?

Having met Ed at an ExecuNet meeting during an earlier transition and knowing Kelleher’s fine reputation, I decided to sit down and talk to him about my transition. Although they may have referred me to another outplacement firm, upon my request, my corporate sponsor agreed to engage Kelleher for my coaching. The difference is in the level of coaching and the one-on-one approach.

As a senior executive, what did you need in coaching?

Opportunities are not created at this level as they sometimes are at the mid-level for the right person. There is either a need--or not--for a senior IT person in each company. Therefore, I wanted strong connections to the local business leadership community--and I found each Kelleher principal is well connected. I also welcomed Ed’s relationships with executive recruiters in the area.

How was the length of your search? What did you anticipate?

My entire search took about 6 months. I worked at this full-time, meeting Ed often and coming into the office for the support and connections that others offered. I had expected my transition might have extended to 12 months or more.

What was helpful to you during the process?

Ed has an interesting way of motivating you to execute certain accomplishments for your next session. Every time you meet with Ed, there is another good idea worth trying.

I learned the importance of being positive and conveying this in every business meeting. Ed taught to approach every conversation as if it were an interview – to be aware that internal feelings come through. In particular, his coaching for the final interviews was very helpful.

Working with Ed was also critical in final countdown – negotiating the offer. He is very astute.

Do you have any advice to others?

Recognize that your search is the hardest, most important ‘job’ in your life. It may take some months so don’t procrastinate – get started and be devoted to it.

Don’t waste time looking back; ask what can I do today.

At Kelleher I found it useful to attend client meetings, meet my peers and spend time listening and sharing. Although I have a fully equipped office at home, I scheduled two days a week in their office to maximize the support offered there.