Why AGB Search?

Update, 8/11/2010: AGBSearch.com is now live -- visit to learn more.

There is no more challenging and difficult job on a university or college campus than the presidency. Similarly, there are few more profound and fundamental decisions a board makes than the hiring of a new CEO. The AGB Board of Directors, in approving the establishment of AGB Search during its recent meeting, noted that AGB will add much value to the search process given our deep understanding of governing boards.

AGB has long been on record that the key to presidential success is a strong working relationship with the institution’s governing board. We have written extensively about this relationship, including in The Leadership Imperative: The Report of the AGB Task Force on the State of the Presidency in American Higher Education (2006). We frequently lead board workshops on presidential search and on presidential transition. We have consulted in boardrooms across the country on comprehensive presidential assessment and on all aspects of the board-presidential relationship. We hold successful institutes for presidents and board chairs twice a year. Recently, AGB Press published two books on the role and relationship between the board and the presidency: Assessing Presidential Effectiveness and Succession Planning for the Higher Education Presidency. We have been interested in the topic of president – board relations for much of our history.  Getting the selection process right is fundamental to that relationship and to institution/system success.

That’s why our decision to start a search practice for college and university presidencies, institutionally related foundation CEOs, and other senior higher-education positions is so exciting. We will soon be joined by one of the most highly respected leaders in the business, Jamie Ferrare, who will join AGB as Senior Vice President and Managing Principal, AGB Search.

Look for us to officially put out our shingle this summer; and, in the meantime, let us know how we can help.