TESTIMONIALS

“When I announced I would be retiring as President/CEO of our foundation, there was great trepidation and concern on the part of our Board of Directors. Board Directors were concerned about how long a search would take, if viable candidates would come forth, and whether they would find the kind of leader who would instill confidence in our community. After interviewing 6 search firms, the Chair of the Search Committee and I (sitting CEO) recommended Cook Silverman. From the outset, CSS was efficient, highly communicative, and most importantly, reassuring that a solid, well-thought-out process would yield excellent results. CSS provided wonderful and clear guidance, made great efforts to be informed by our board, staff, and key stakeholders, and was accessible for questions at any turn. They produced results on the timeline promised, the top candidate summaries were extraordinarily detailed and informative, and their attention to equity and fairness significantly resulted in a process of which we were very proud. Overall, the search process could not have been smoother, and we are delighted to welcome a new, highly capable, and talented leader for our foundation.”

Siobhan Greene
Former President/CEO
Hospice Giving Foundation

“Cook Silverman was a wonderful support for the search for our development director. Victoria's counsel throughout the process was invaluable and her team was always available throughout the process. The information and reports on the candidates were excellent. I would definitely hire them again if the need arises.”

Leonardo Lobato
Executive Director
La Luz Center

“It was a pleasure working with Kate on our Director of Sales and Marketing search. Kate clearly has deep experience in the space, able to get a read on the market place as the search progressed. She was extremely responsive to our needs throughout the search, providing guidance throughout. With Kate's guidance, we secured a phenomenal candidate and look forward to our first year together.”

Aragon Burlingham
Executive Director
CuriOdyssey

"From a candidate's point of view, Cook Silverman was extremely thorough, professional, and supportive as I navigated my very first search for a President/CEO position at a reputable local foundation. Honestly, I'm not sure I would have thrown my hat in the ring without their guidance and encouragement, and then I wound up being the best fit for the job. Wow! I'm grateful to have gotten to know this highly efficient and accomplished CSS team and now consider them indispensable members of my professional network."

Erin White
President and CEO
Hospice Giving Foundation

“I appreciated the clarity of the process as a job seeker. Outlining what would be required during each step of the process as well as sharing questions and discussion topics in advance of meetings and interviews should be standard practice. I really felt like Cook Silverman wanted the best candidate for the job! Thank you!”

Camille Matson
Planned Giving Manager
Sonoma Land Trust

“Working with Cook Silverman Search was an exceptional experience. I was thoroughly impressed by their authenticity and the respect they showed for my time. They were thoughtful and supportive, providing guidance throughout the entire process. Darcie, in particular, was a joy to work with and converse with. I couldn't have asked for a better partner in my search journey.”

Daniel Casanova
Executive Director
Eviction Defense Collaborative

“Working with Cook Silverman Search was a 100% positive experience. Their process was clear, thorough, and responsive to both the candidate and hiring organization. I especially appreciated their thoughtful approach to getting to know my professional background and the skills I bring to the table. Would highly recommend to individuals who are seeking their next position and organizations looking to grow their team.”

Laura Mason
Senior Director of Operations
Operation Dignity

"Our Board of Directors’ Search Committee engaged Victoria and her team to help us fill our CEO position.  We were anxious about a change in leadership, and from the outset Victoria provided a clear picture of what we could expect from them. They understand the unique challenges to philanthropic foundations, and they took time to learn about our needs, priorities and culture.  Victoria led us through a clear, organized and equitable process, and she was accessible and supportive when we had questions.  We were impressed by the thorough nature of their screening process and the level of detail they provided to us about each candidate.  We hired a highly skilled leader whom we are thrilled to welcome to our organization, and we are very grateful to Cook Silverman Search for their assistance.”

Barbara Collins
Board Member and
Search Committee Chair
Hospice Giving Foundation

“I'm so happy we engaged Cook Silverman to help us with our executive director search. The firm provided thoughtful materials and guidance to help us approach candidates and interviews well prepared. At the same time, they were flexible with our requests to tailor the search process to our needs. We always felt like we were in great hands with Victoria and her team, who kept us organized and on target to fill this very important role in a timely manner.”

“The Cook Silverman Search team was awesome at providing industry expertise on how best to approach hiring. I appreciated their flexibility and quick response to all of our requests.”

Adam Sharma
Board President
San Francisco Public Health Foundation

“I am incredibly grateful to Cook Silverman for facilitating my journey to becoming the Director of Major Gifts at Meals on Wheels San Francisco. Their professionalism, transparency, and prompt communication throughout the hiring process were truly exceptional. The team was not only dedicated to finding the right fit for me but also exhibited genuine kindness, support, and the necessary resources for me to be successful in the interview process. Thanks to their efforts, I am now in a dream role where I can make a meaningful impact on an important cause that I deeply care about. I highly recommend their services to anyone seeking a dedicated and trustworthy partner.”

Colette Burkett
Director of Major Gifts
Meals on Wheels

“Working with Cook and Silverman was a game changer! Victoria and the team were very organized, always available for questions, and provided unwavering guidance throughout the entire search process. Having their support allowed us to focus on our programs while they found our next leader!”

Jasmine Jones
Former Executive Director
West Contra Costa
Public Education Fund

“We could not be more thrilled with our new Executive Director and with Cook Silverman Search! After trying and failing to do the search on our own as a volunteer Board, we realized that we needed an expert. Victoria skillfully led the process from beginning to end and was always available to answer questions and offer guidance. This was money well spent!”

Nicole Levine
Board of Directors
Bay Area Women and
Children’s Center

“Victoria and her team have a deep understanding of fundraising and what it takes to be in philanthropy. Their screening process helps the candidate enter the search knowing that the organization knows they are qualified for the job and can allow the search to focus on the substance. This is why they are able to identify the right candidates in the field. It's been wonderful being part of the VPP search at EBCF. Thank you Victoria and Lana.”

Elle Fersan
Vice President of Philanthropy
East Bay Community Foundation