Candidate Experience Interview

Candidate Interview

John Ipsen, Executive Director
Native Forestry Transition at Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science & Innovation

Tell us about how you came in to contact with Hunter Executive and an overview of the position and company discussed?

3-4 years ago - I applied for a role where Gregor was the Executive Search Consultant. Although I missed out on the role, Gregor kept in contact, caught up and he really took the time to understand my aspirations.

I had taken a role in the Kimberley/NT as an Executive Coach and Management Consultant and Gregor touched base every month or two.

Gregor then approached me with an opportunity for a CEO position at IBN Group (12-month contract). It was not a role I was aware of but ended up doing 14 months there and another 4 months as a consultant.

In the first communication with Hunter Executive, what was your initial perception?

Great, friendly, open, upfront. Gregor was genuinely interested in my career not just lip service.

How have positions and companies been explained and briefed to you?

Gregor would always give me a call and say I’ve got this job, are you interested?

He would then send me the Job description and company details, so I was able to make a determination.

He would always keep an eye out. If a role/company was delayed/delaying Gregor was always honest.

How would you describe the communication through the entire process?

Communication was a regular as required. Even when Gregor was overseas, he referred me to Ben to handle things.

Did you feel the consultant listened to you and your individual needs/requirements, please provide an example?

Definitely. Yes. My background has been in Forestry and Renewable Energy, but I have non-work-related experience in sports development and Gregor guided me to leverage this experience for other roles.

Did your consultant provide on-going support to you once you started in your new role? Please elaborate?

Yes, absolutely, Gregor checked in on at the end of my second week to see how things were going and if I was enjoying it.

How would you describe the overall experience with your consultant throughout the process.

10/10. Gregor is very proactive. I have taken 2 roles through Hunter Executive and both I was unaware of.

Gregor’s ability to bring everything together in such a short time frame is great. Especially at the Executive level with key stakeholders having busy schedules.

Would you use Hunter Executive in the future when looking for your next executive appointment? Would you recommend Hunter Executive to Businesses looking to engage an executive search company?

Absolutely. I have already spoken to several high-level people in my network about Gregor and Hunter Executive.