February 17, 2021
When I started SwingSearch 15 years ago, at the time (and maybe still today!), the corporate search world did not support the working mother. But I felt I could have it all and set out to create just that. Swing was born and 10 months later, so was my first son. I took calls and grew my business while a sleeping infant lay in my lap and I delighted in this little secret.
At the time, there were two options to engage with a recruiter: junior resume-spamming contingent service or C-level executive search. I set out to solve for the start-up middle ground:white-glove retained-level services at a more reasonable fee structure for early-stage companies. I also noticed that startups needed a different type of talent than the typical contingent or executive-level search firm normally targets. Startups need well-rounded players with a ton of grit, perseverance and intellect to solve tough problems and ride the highs and lows that inevitably come with startup life. As the first tech bubble popped and business started to thrive again, I launched Swing to be laser-focused on the type of startup DNA that would build great companies.
Today, I am proud to have built a team of 25 (and growing!) that does exactly that.
Swing’s Search practice focuses on startup leadership and executive-level roles (Director to C-suite), while our Talent team works to find the strategic individual contributors and rising managers that make the meaningful difference at growing startups. We are delighted to watch the Heads of Marketing we place grow into CMO-level leaders. Today, we are just as likely to fill a Chief Revenue Officer or Chief Marketing Officer as we are a client’s Product Marketing Lead.
In addition to filling highly-needed roles, we have had a front-row seat to cultural shifts in the workplace as COVID has transformed how we work, likely permanently, and diversity becomes a recognized business necessity (finally!). It has been an honor to guide Founders and hiring teams through this change and advise when we see red or yellow flags. It has been a career high for me and many on our team to see so many companies grow, exit and careers be made.
While many feel uncertainty abound, I know I at least, am excited for what lies ahead.
Cheers to another 15 years of celebrating milestones big and small.
Jennifer Loftus, Founder & CEO