Finding Success with Executive Career Partners

Are you facing career challenges and feeling uncertain about your job search journey? Tom Hutchison, a seasoned executive who once found himself in the same boat, shares his inspiring story of overcoming career obstacles and finding success with the assistance of Executive Career Partners (ECP). In this blog post, we’ll delve into Tom’s journey, the challenges he faced, and the valuable insights he gained from his experience with ECP.

The Starting Point

Tom’s journey began in 2021 when he was the Vice President of Marketing at Sprouts Farmers Market, a popular grocery chain with hundreds of stores. Unfortunately, he faced the harsh reality of being terminated from his position in January. However, he didn’t immediately jump back into the job market, thanks to a generous severance package. This period of personal reflection allowed him to spend quality time with his family and work on personal projects.

After several months, Tom decided it was time to re-enter the job market. But he understood that finding the right career opportunity wasn’t just about submitting resumes and attending interviews; it was a critical life decision. Tom recognized that the choices he made in his career were vital, and he wanted to maximize his chances of finding a role that aligned with his aspirations and values.

Why ECP?

Tom’s realization that he needed professional assistance led him to seek help from Executive Career Partners. He understood that making the right career choices required expertise, insights, and connections that he couldn’t find on his own. He had matured in his career, recognizing the importance of professional guidance.

For Tom, the decision to work with ECP was motivated by the desire to identify all the career options that matched his needs and goals. He was looking for a partner who could provide the deep expertise and connections necessary to help him climb the corporate ladder successfully. As Tom put it, “I want to give myself the best chance of success and happiness.”

Tom’s extensive research led him to choose ECP as his partner in this journey, thanks to their reputation and recommendations from others. This decision marked the beginning of his transformational career search experience.

The Value of ECP Services

Tom’s collaboration with ECP provided him with a range of invaluable services and insights that significantly improved his job search process. Here are some of the key benefits he highlighted:

1. Understanding Applicant Tracking Systems

ECP helped Tom understand the reality of applicant tracking systems, shedding light on the fact that many resumes end up in a “black hole.” He discovered that keywords played a crucial role in making it past these systems and reaching the eyes of human recruiters.

2. Comprehensive Research and Reporting

ECP’s access to extensive reporting on companies, categories, and industries proved to be a valuable asset. The research capabilities were robust and quick, providing Tom with the information he needed to make informed decisions in his job search.

3. Confidence Building

Tom emphasized the importance of confidence during the job search, especially for those who find themselves without employment. ECP’s support helped him regain emotional confidence and composure during this challenging phase.

4. Leveraging Connections

In the world of job hunting, personal connections are invaluable. ECP facilitated warm introductions, helping Tom bypass the “black hole” of automated application systems. Recommendations from trusted sources enhanced his credibility and trustworthiness in the eyes of potential employers.

Tom’s Career Triumph

Tom’s journey led him to a fulfilling and exciting role as the Chief Marketing Officer at the Alkaline Water Company, where he oversees their flagship brand, Alkaline 88. This company operates in the functional beverage category and partners with none other than Shaquille O’Neal. Tom’s first quarter with the company resulted in more than 50% growth, indicating a promising future in his new role.

What’s particularly interesting about Tom’s career shift is his move from the retail industry to the consumer packaged goods (CPG) sector. This transition allowed him to work with a brand and products he truly believes in, aligning with his passion for marketing and brand storytelling.

A Perfect Fit

One crucial aspect that Tom emphasized was the size of the company and the scope of his role. His new position in a smaller, more agile organization allowed him to have a more significant influence and work with less bureaucracy. This shift not only gave him a meaningful C-suite title but also an environment where he could make a tangible impact.

Parting Words

Tom’s testimony is a testament to the value of investing in your career and seeking professional guidance. As he aptly put it, “You get one shot, and you don’t know as much as you think you do about this process.” The decision to partner with ECP proved to be a wise one, resulting in a rewarding career transition that Tom couldn’t be happier with.

In closing, Tom expressed his gratitude for the transformational support he received from ECP and the newfound confidence in his career journey. If you’re facing career challenges and considering professional guidance, remember Tom’s story as an inspiring example of how investing in your career can lead to remarkable success.

And as for Tom’s future, it’s filled with promise and the opportunity to influence a company’s culture positively. He’s set to continue making waves in the world of marketing and brand storytelling. To hear his full story, watch his Client Success Story below.