Abstract
Purpose: It was the purpose of this study to analyze the superintendent search processes utilized by California's superintendent search firms and the perceptions of executive recruiters, superintendents, and board members in relation to those processes. Further, it was the study's purpose to analyze the characteristics sought by school boards when selecting a superintendent search firm and the services provided by those firms after the search process. Methodology: The subjects in this study were the 34 executive recruiters who conducted multiple searches between October 1, 2007 and April 30, 2009, the 80 superintendents hired through those searches, and the 80 board members who led those searches. Subjects responded to an electronic survey where they rated the importance of superintendent search strategies. Fifteen follow-up interviews provided greater clarity and support to the survey data. Findings: The planning phase represented the most important phase of the superintendent search process. The most important attribute when selecting an executive recruiter was a commitment to conducting thorough background checks. After the search, training on effective superintendent/board relationships was rated as most important by the overall group. Conclusions: School board members need access to in-depth information regarding superintendent search processes. Executive recruiters need to focus their energies on the planning phase of the superintendent search process as this phase builds the foundation for searches. Following the search, school districts need access to training on superintendent/board relationships. It would benefit executive recruiters to address the perception that recruiters have stables of candidates they are trying to place and to discuss the differences and benefits of targeted recruitment. Recommendations: State and national board organizations must share accurate information with their members regarding the components of effective superintendent searches. It is recommended that executive recruiters clarify the importance of targeted recruitment, how targeted recruitment occurs, and how it can impact the superintendent search. Finally, superintendent candidates should analyze the strategies utilized in superintendent searches to help them as they navigate this complicated process.