Associate Managing Director

Associate Managing Director - Greater Los Angeles, CA (Hybrid)

Sterling Search, Inc. (SSI) is a nationally recognized retained executive search firm, founded in 2002, specializing in the recruitment and placement of C-suite executives and senior leaders exclusively within the nonprofit sector.

With over two decades of experience, SSI has built a reputation for excellence and integrity. The firm is proud to receive the vast majority of its engagements through referrals, a testament to its trusted relationships and consistent delivery of high-quality results.

VISION

Placing nonprofit leadership to amplify mission impact

MISSION

We are drive by a deep passion for each client's mission, executing every search with excellencCOMPENSATIONe to:

• Connect exceptional talent
• with organizations, ensuring the best cultural and leadership fit to amplify impact for both client and candidate;
• Foster a rewarding and balanced career experience for the SSI team, grounded in purpose, collaboration, and well-being.

OVERVIEW

This is a newly created position established as part of a strategic succession plan for the Founder and President. Upon achieving key performance goals, the new Associate Managing Director (AMD) will have the opportunity to begin buying/earning equity in the firm.

Over the past two and a half decades, Sterling Search, Inc. has earned its reputation as a premier boutique, retained executive search firm dedicated exclusively to the nonprofit sector. With a strong emphasis on mission-driven organizations, Sterling has become the trusted partner for renowned nonprofit brands. The firm is proud of placing transformative CEOs and senior leaders who align with each organization's values and vision. Sterling Search, Inc. is a member of the Network of Nonprofit Search Consultants, fully embracing its values and ethical standards. This affiliation reflects our commitment to integrity, transparency, and excellence in executive search for mission-driven organizations.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Reporting to the Founder and President, the Associate Managing Director (AMD) partners closely with the President to lead a high-performing firm dedicated to identifying, recruiting, and placing senior-level talent across the nonprofit sector. The AMD is responsible for driving business growth through new client acquisition, stewarding client relationships, managing staff, and overseeing the full lifecycle of retained search engagements.

This role blends strategic leadership, client and staff development, and hands-on search execution. The AMD is responsible for acquiring new clients and expanding SSI's existing portfolio, ensuring the firm remains the partner of choice for both current and future executive searches. This role plays a key part in strengthening SSI's brand as a trusted leader in the nonprofit recruitment sector.

The AMD will provide a high-level professional client and candidate customer experience and be dedicated to SSI's approach to service delivery. The AMD will be a collaborative partner to the President and staff, willing to roll up their sleeves and be "all in" and ready to perform any role in the organization to meet and surpass client expectations and deliverables.

The AMD will be responsible for the full cycle search process and act as a decision-maker and top counsel around approaches and strategies for individual search assignments, partnering with and guiding internal support staff on effective sourcing, recruiting, and winning execution strategies.

As part of SSI's succession plan, the AMD is expected to grow into a leadership role with increasing ownership and decision-making authority over time, contingent on performance.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Business Development & Client Strategy

• Acquire new clients and expand relationships with key clients.
• Develop and execute strategic plans to grow the business with the President.
• Lead client briefings, stakeholder alignment, and proposal development.

Search Execution & Delivery

• Oversee end-to-end search engagements.
• Direct research, candidate sourcing, assessment, and presentation processes.
• Ensure high-quality delivery and client satisfaction across all engagements.

Team Leadership & Practice Growth

• Mentor and manage a team of search consultants and support staff.
• Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture within the practice.
• Contribute to innovation in search methodology and client service.

Revenue & Operational Oversight

• Drive revenue through personal business development and team performance.
• Align business development efforts with organizational goals.
• With the President, monitor financial metrics and ensure profitability of the business.
• Partner with the President on strategic initiatives as the practice evolves.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Deep commitment to SSI's mission and those of our clients, with the credibility and persuasiveness to secure top candidates.
• 5-7 years in executive search or talent advisory, with 3+ years leading a retained search desk and managing staff in the nonprofit sector.
• Proven success in client acquisition, relationship management, and search delivery.
• Strong leadership, communication, and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to work autonomously and lead inclusively.
• Decisive and resourceful, with an entrepreneurial spirit and the confidence to forge ahead while remaining sensitive to others' perspectives.
• Energetic, emotionally mature, and dependable - a true collegial partner to the team.

COMPENSATION

• Salary Range: $120,000 to $130,000 annually , plus business development and performance-based bonus opportunities with OTE of $175,000 to $194,000.
• Equity Participation: After 12 to 18 months, eligible for equity/buy-in.
• Paid Time Off: Three weeks of vacation per year, with an additional week off between Christmas and New Year, subject to workload.
• Sick Days: 5
• Health and Dental Insurance

TO APPLY PLEASE CONTACT:

• Sarah Agee
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