Experts in Nonprofit Leadership Search
Our firm specializes in executive leadership search projects representing a wide variety of nonprofit sectors, including behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities, children and family social services, foundations, business and professional trade associations, faith-based institutions and other community building organizations.
Whether your nonprofit organization is seeking to recruit a chief executive officer, chief operating officer, chief financial officer or other key executive leadership position, our firm has a well-established search process designed to exceed client expectations with high qualified candidates and a smooth transition process.
DCM Associates’ team of experienced and successful nonprofit chief executive officers, board chairs, foundation executives, human resource officer and strategic advisors enables them to bring a unique perspective to each client’s specific executive search needs.
Our firm is also available to support your organization even if you decide to conduct your own executive search. Contact us for more information.
For information on all current searches please contact us
Our Five-Stage Process for Conducting Clients’ Executive Search Needs
1
Analyze Strategic Challenges
Analyze the strategic challenges and the role that the new position will need to play in addressing them. We work very closely with each client to identify the skills and experience needed for the position and will develop a comprehensive customized position and candidate profile for each client’s approval.
2
Targeted Search
Conduct a targeted search into organizations and sectors to identify those with the relevant skill-sets and qualifications required by each client. Develop a list of qualified prospects for consideration.
3
Approach Potential Candidates
Approach potential candidates to test their interest in the new position, communicate the strengths of the client organization and persuade strong candidates to consider the new opportunity.
4
Present Most Qualified Candidates
Present the most qualified candidates after conducting in-depth interviews, reference checks and evaluations that best match the position profile developed in stage one.
5
Complete Search
Complete the search and provide follow-up support during the initial phase of the candidate’s tenure. Conduct client satisfaction survey.
A Guide To Recruiting Your Next CEO
Proud to Have Served These Organizations
“From the outset, DCM Associates demonstrated an unparalleled level of professionalism and expertise. They took the time to understand our organization’s mission, values, and the specific qualities we were seeking in a CEO. Their approach was thorough and personalized, ensuring that every step of the search process was aligned with our expectations and organizational needs. The assistance Shelley Feist provided in facilitating the selection process was invaluable. She was there at every step, offering insights and guidance that helped us navigate the complexities of choosing the right leader. Their support did not end with the presentation of candidates; they were instrumental in helping us through the decision-making process. The culmination of DCM Associates’ efforts was the appointment of Dr. Jeannine L. Lisitski as our CEO. Dr. Lisitski’s background, expertise, and vision for Mental Health Partnerships stood out, making her the ideal choice for our organization. This successful outcome is a testament to DCM Associates’ commitment to excellence and their deep understanding of the nonprofit sector.”
Paul Kaplan, Chair, Board Search Committee
Mental Health Partnerships
“Working with DCM made the entire process of recruiting our new Chief Development Officer a great experience. Patrick Collins and Joe Costa guided the process with utmost professionalism. Imagine is so honored to have found in Paul Muir a true professional with a deep connection and commitment to our mission. We know that Paul will be an amazing addition to this already incredible staff that will bring Imagine to new chapters throughout the next decade. I greatly appreciated the time that the DCM team to get to know our organization and understand the unique needs of the Imagine team. Pat Collins was incredibly responsive and supportive throughout this entire process. A true partner.”
Lindsay Schambach
Executive Director
Imagine – A Center for Coping with Loss
“I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the exceptional services provided by DCM Associates during our recent executive director search for NHDC. Your team’s expertise and thorough approach played a pivotal role in our successful recruitment process.
From the outset, DCM Associates demonstrated a keen understanding of our organization’s needs and objectives. Through thoughtful consultation, your team helped us define the essential qualifications and characteristics required in our new executive director. This clarity was invaluable in guiding our search and ensuring alignment with our organizational goals.
One of the most significant contributions from DCM Associates was their assistance in identifying a candidate already within our organization. Their insightful guidance and support during the interview process helped us recognize the exceptional potential within our own board. This realization not only saved us valuable time and resources but also ensured a seamless transition for our new executive director.
Furthermore, DCM Associates provided invaluable advice on structuring the compensation package, ensuring that it was competitive and aligned with industry standards. Their expertise in this area helped us secure our new executive director with confidence and clarity.
Thanks to the collaborative efforts of DCM Associates, we are thrilled to have our new executive director in place and ready to lead NHDC into its next chapter of growth and success. We deeply appreciate the dedication, professionalism, and expertise demonstrated by your team throughout this process.
I wholeheartedly recommend DCM Associates to any organization seeking comprehensive and effective executive search services.”
Janelle Profant
Board Chair
Neighborhood Housing Development Corporation
“We are extremely pleased with the outstanding efforts of Joe Duffy and the DCM team in assisting our Search Committee in finding our new CEO, Jessica Padilla Gonzales. Their expertise in managing the search process and identifying highly skilled and competent candidates streamlined the process and helped the CUMAC Board achieve our objective within the expected timeframe. We are equally proud of the exceptional contributions of our entire team during this transitional period and eagerly anticipate working with Jessica to further our mission and make a positive impact on the lives of others. We enthusiastically recommend the DCM team.”
Stephanie Schwartz
Vice Chairperson, Search Committee Chairperson
CUMAC Board of Trustees
“Our board was quite nervous about the process of finding the right Executive Director and CEO for Hope For Youth. Our retiring CEO had been with us for 40 years the last 32 of them as CEO. Most of us have never been through this process. From the initial introductory call we knew DCM had the right team to guide us through the process. The DCM team made us at ease when they explained similar situations and how they were successful at finding the right candidate. The DCM team spent a lot of time and energy interviewing the board members and the agency to ensure they knew the right fit. We received applications from highly qualified candidates. Dr. Jim McGuirk and DCM were able were able to guide us through the interview, screening and hiring process. We had a great experience working with DCM and highly recommend them to you.”
Peter Breckling
Board Chair
Hope For Youth
“We appreciated the experience of working with Dennis Miller and his team in hiring for a newly created position on our executive team. As we navigate the many challenges in our field and plan for a sustainable future, we needed to make the best possible decision for this key position. We felt the Dennis Miller team understood our needs from the start and we appreciated the process, which allowed us to move forward effectively and without delay. With the full support and guidance of Dennis Miller, we are confident we made the right selection.”
Toni Pergolin
President / CEO
Bancroft
“Dennis Miller and his associates were responsive and great to work with. They learned about Via’s mission, vision and needs to find us the best option for our Chief Financial Officer. I highly recommend DCM Associates for any organization seeking an executive leader.”
Lisa Walkiewicz
President & CEO
Via of the Lehigh Valley
“DCM Associates utilized their local network reach, consulting skills, and applicant review and interview capacity to support our search for a highly-qualified chief executive to replace our well-respected retiring CEO of 25 years. We were thrilled with the quality of candidate finalists presented to our search committee, the efficiency of the process, the availability of Dennis Miller and his team, and the outcome of our search. DCM is adept at providing the skills and capacity small non-profits often need to successfully identify and on-board leadership talent.”
Becky Testa
CEO Search Committee Chair
United Way of Hunterdon County
“DCM provided a thorough analysis and understanding of our recruiting needs for Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. Their ability to reach out to organizations, markets outside the Houma-Thibodaux area and postings outside the local postings allowed us to receive appropriate candidates qualified to lead our organization forward after the post-hurricane Ida recovery efforts. Your team showed no bias in the recruiting efforts, yet fully understood our challenges which would require certain skill sets to move our organization forward. Your team recognized our sense of urgency since the position was open for 9 months. I am particularly impressed with the strengths profile testing of the candidates. This identified areas for success yet identified areas of opportunity for growth of a new ED candidate. Your team’s preliminary assessments of all candidates were extremely helpful in filtering those candidates with the strengths that would make our organization successful.”
Karen David
Board Chairman
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, Louisiana
“Our Board of Trustees recognized the importance of finding the right candidate for our new CEO of New Jersey School Age Care Coalition (NJSACC). The current Executive Director was not only in her position for over 30 years, but was also the founder of the organization. With no prior experience completing this type of search, the board knew it was important to seek outside support. Dennis and his team were fabulous right from the beginning. Their team was responsive, organized, and understanding throughout the whole process. We could rely on their effective advice and guidance at any time and through each and every challenge. From the initial posting to the announcement of the selected candidate, DCM helped move us forward in an efficient and organized manner. They welcomed input from internal staff as well as partners recognizing the importance of finding the right candidate. I would be happy to work with Dennis and DCM Associates in the future and recommend them to any organization searching for their next CEO.”
Krista Glynn
Board of Trustees President
NJSACC
“Our board took finding the right CEO for Holly Hill very seriously. From the beginning, Gregory Nielsen was always immediately responsive to my phone calls and emails, no matter the time of day. DCM spent a lot of time and energy interviewing the board members and the agency to ensure they knew what candidate the right fit for Holly Hill was. DCM thoroughly vetted the candidates, and I was extremely impressed with the number of qualified candidates DCM presented to us for interviews – clearly, they were able to pull from a large group of candidates through both public and personal connections. Greg and the DCM team were able to guide us through the interview and hiring process until we got to the very end. I believe that if it weren’t for DCM, we would not have connected with the candidate we ultimately ended up hiring as CEO.”
Erin Wilkins, Esq
Board Chair
Holly Hill Child & Family Solutions
Kentucky
“I can’t thank you enough for providing GSNNJ with an exceptional search and selection for our CEO. We are so impressed with the well-designed process, the dedicated service provided by your staff and you, the well-qualified and diverse candidates, and, once selected, your assistance with the announcement of our successful candidate. It was a pleasure working with you and we appreciate your willingness to work with us.”
Bette Simmons, Ed. D
Board Chair
Girl Scouts of NNJ
“The DCM team was exactly what we needed to fulfill a newly created executive position in the mental health field at Mary’s Path. DCM went the extra mile to find us our new Lead Clinician within the very specialized field of foster care for pregnant and parenting teens. They guided me every step of the way defining the search, and customizing the search for our needs. I am very pleased with our new Head of Services/Lead Clinician.”
Jill Dominguez
Executive Director and President
Mary’s Path, Orange County California
“I would like to thank DCM Associates for successfully conducting the search for our new Chief Development Officer, Dan Barnett, who brings significant fund development experience to Students 2 Science, a model program with a mission to encourage students in economically disadvantaged communities to pursue careers in STEM and foster a more diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce. Dennis and his team’s professionalism and responsiveness exceeded our expectations, and we are thrilled to have Dan on board. Dan also appreciated the DCM team’s professionalism. I have had several experiences with executive search firms in my career and found DCM to be the best.”
Paul Winslow, PhD.
President & Co-Founder
Students 2 Science
“Dennis C. Miller and his team conducted a far-reaching national search for our new President & CEO communicating effectively throughout the process and bringing to us very well qualified candidates for our interviews. We are thrilled to welcome Bill Schuldt as our new leader who has a passion and demonstrated commitment to enriching the lives of people with disabilities. Dennis’ team exceeded our expectations in managing the process within a tight time frame. I’ve been intimately involved in more than a half dozen searches and this was the best search I’ve experienced.”
Carl Augusto
Chair, Board of Trustees
Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey
“Working with DCM Associates, Inc. was very beneficial as they not only recruited well-qualified candidates for the position of Chief Operating Officer, but they handled the entire process from start to finish. The DCM team is very professional and easy to work with and their networks are strong. I am very appreciative to Dennis and the team for their efforts in assisting us with this search. We are excited that Jessica Hoffman will be joining Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey in the role of Chief Operating Officer and am extremely confident that she will be a wonderful addition to our senior leadership team.”
Betty Garger
President & CEO
Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey
“I would like to thank Dennis Miller and Dr. Bill Neigher for conducting the search to find Sound Start Foundation’s first Executive Director. Dennis and his team listened to our wants and needs, analyzed our current structure and found us a perfect match. Sara Huisking brings invaluable experience in fundraising and non-profit management as well as an incredible passion for children’s services that will help position us to fulfill our ambition to grow and expand. Our Board is confident that Sound Start Foundation will be well positioned under her guidance for years to come.”
Jessica Griffin
Board President
Sound Start Foundation
“I have had the pleasure to work with Dennis Miller over several months to not only replace the Chief Executive Officer but to resolve several internal board and C-level management issues. Dennis worked with me, our management staff, and our Board of Trustees to ensure that the final outcome achieved the goals of each. Replacing a founding director is not easy for any of the players involved and yet Dennis and his staff had the compassion, knowledge and determination to leave AHA with a quality replacement and an equally satisfied partnership among all the players. AHA could not have achieved the same outcome on our own and we are grateful Dennis provided us the leadership, direction and expertise to achieve our personal and collective goals.”
Donna M. Blaze
Chief Executive Officer
Affordable Housing Alliance
“I couldn’t be more pleased with the extraordinary efforts of Dennis Miller and his team. His ability to listen, collaborate and give insightful advice was invaluable in our search for a new CEO for the Chamber. If you are looking for a firm with the expertise, experience and contacts to ensure your executive search is successful, then Dennis C. Miller Associates is the firm to call.”
Brenda Ross-Dulan
Chairman of the Board
Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber
“Working with Dennis C. Miller & Associates, Inc. was an extreme pleasure. At the inception of our agreement the executive search process for a Chief Operating Officer was seamless and expedited with the utter most professionalism ensuring that the candidate search was a top priority. I admire the level of communication and tenacity shown by Dennis C. Miller and Joe Duffy as they always managed to keep Enable’s leadership team abreast of developments and status as well as their keen ability to provide recommendations for the best suited individuals ensuring that the selection would match the needs of our workforce. The strong background and knowledge of the Human Services industry maintained by Dennis and his team played a key role in the success of our final decision and selection. I would highly recommend Dennis C. Miller & Associates, Inc. to any professional organization in need of a dynamic Executive Search Firm to get the job done! Thank you for your professionalism and for supporting Enable, Inc.”
Lisa Coscia
Chief Executive Officer
Enable Inc.
“We believe selecting the organization’s leader is one of the most critical challenges a Board of Trustee can undertake. For many reasons, we knew it was best to engage a specialist to assist us. Working with the DCM team was a valuable experience for us. They provided the experience and reach that we needed to ensure we identified the right person to replace our retiring CEO. Our search committee was very impressed with the depth and diversity of candidates we met through the process. After meeting with their top tier candidates, we knew that Kiran Gaudioso, our Chief Operating Officer, was the right person to lead United Way and build on the strong foundation established by John Franklin. Dennis was readily available throughout the process providing valuable insights and tremendous support during our search process. We highly recommend them.”
Cindy Chiarella and Tim Greiner
Search Committee Co-Chairs
United Way of Northern New Jersey
“Dennis and Michele provided outstanding service to our Search Committee during this process. Not only did they furnish us with a list of very qualified candidates from whom Meghan emerged as the selection to be the Chamber’s new President, they also offered wise and helpful counsel as to the process to follow, and they were in constant communication as to our needs. It was a pleasure to work with them.”
Edward W. Ahart, Partner
Schenck, Price, Smith & King, LLP
Chair, Search Committee – Morris County Chamber of Commerce
“Dennis served as a true partner during our recent CEO search, providing the guidance and direction we needed to select a candidate with the knowledge, passion and drive to lead our agency into the future. His practical insights into not-for-profit management and his open and honest communication kept us on track and energized. As a result, the CEO search became a great learning experience for our entire Board, giving us new tools for success.”
Christine LaRocca, Chair, Board of Trustees
Spectrum for Living
“We keep returning to the DCM team because, at the end of the day, they deliver. Dennis brings to the table many years of practical experience as a CEO, president of healthcare foundation, board chair and nonprofit leadership coach. Most recently, we contracted with the DCM team to assist in recruiting a senior leader for a new and pivotal position. I am confident that because of their efforts we saw far more capable candidates than if we had done the search ourselves. We’ve used other search firms in the past, but never did we see a pool so competitive as what DCM provided to us. I highly recommend Dennis and the DCM team.”
Thomas P. Weatherall, President & CEO
Make-A-Wish® New Jersey
“Our board needed help with a monumental responsibility: selecting the right person to succeed the founder of our 30-year-old community-based organization. Well, Mr. Miller exceeded our expectations. He brought deep understanding and years of real world experience to the task. Significantly, his legendary wit and good humor kept our anxieties under control and enhanced our decision-making. As a result, we believe we’ve selected the best person to help us meet the challenges of an increasingly dynamic, fast-changing world.”
Elliott Lee, Board Chair
Housing and Neighborhood Development Services (HANDS, Inc.)
“Working with Dennis Miller and his team proved to be a very positive experience in recruiting our new Chief Operating Officer. They provided a high-quality group of candidates and ultimately one candidate was hired into the COO position. Overall communication was great, and they were a true partner in our executive search process. They come highly recommended.”
Robert Bachicha
CEO, Vista Care America
“Working with the DCM team helped us recruit, hire and onboard our new Chief Operating Officer. The recruitment for such a high-level position was new to us. Dennis walked us through each step of the process and reached out to a broad scope of potential candidates. Michele Hickey worked with us to craft our Ideal Candidate Profile ensuring we not only knew what and who we were looking for, but that it was clearly communicated. Joe Duffy worked with us on candidate selection, supported our multi-interview method, and helped us narrow down the qualities that were most important. This was an extensive process, one that was much smoother than had we done so on our own. All our final candidates came through this process rather than from our own internal network. The DCM team worked with our timeframe, helping to ensure a quick turnaround from our first conversation to the final hire letter”
Joann Bjornson, LSW
Chief Executive Officer
Family Promise of Morris County