Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Pursell Group?

The Pursell Group is an executive search and professional recruiting firm that helps employers hire top talent for their most critical job openings while at the same time helping professionals grow in their careers.

 

What industries do you serve?

We serve organizations across specialized industries including agriculture, animal health, animal nutrition, animal and life sciences, animal ag-tech, biotechnology, consumer packaged goods, diagnostics, finance and accounting, nonprofit, pet food, pet specialty, pet technology, pharmaceuticals, sales and marketing, telemedicine, and more. We support companies ranging from high-growth startups to well-established industry leaders.

 

Where do you recruit?

We recruit nationwide in the United States and in Canada and can support hiring anywhere in the United States. We are based in Tulsa, Oklahoma.  We recruit executives and professionals in Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Portland, OR, Portland, ME, Miami, FL, New York City, Atlanta, Kansas City, St. Louis, Chicago, Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Raleigh, Charlotte, Charleston, Nashville, Memphis, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Detroit and many other locations nationwide.

 

What types of roles do you recruit for?

We recruit for a wide range of roles, from board of directors, advisory board, C-Suite, executives, general management, business unit leaders, sales positions, marketing roles, business development, research and development, clinical development, pharmacovigilance, professional services, accounting, finance, etc. We recruit from the C-Suite to associate levels, depending on the needs of the client and the talent market.

 

How is The Pursell Group different from job boards?

Job boards rely on applicants. We actively identify and recruit qualified candidates, often including those who are not applying publicly, and guide both clients and candidates through a structured hiring process.

 

Is The Pursell Group a staffing agency?

We focus on professional recruiting and executive search.

 

How do I contact The Pursell Group?

You can contact us through the website contact form, email, or phone. A member of our team will respond as soon as possible.

 

Do you keep information confidential?

Yes. Confidentiality and professionalism are core to our recruiting process for both employers and candidates.

 

How can I work with The Pursell Group?

Employers can contact us to discuss hiring needs. Candidates can submit a resume or apply for open roles when available.

 

Employers Frequently Asked Questions

What recruiting services do you offer?

We offer professional recruitment and executive search solutions, tailored to the role, urgency, and hiring goals.

 

What types of positions do you fill?

We recruit for positions ranging from specialized professionals to executive leadership roles across multiple functions.

 

What is the difference between retained search and contingency search?

  • Retained search is a committed partnership typically used for leadership, confidential, or highly specialized roles.
  • Contingency search is performance-based and often used for roles that are easier to fill or need faster pipelines.

 

How do you find candidates?

We use direct outreach, targeted sourcing, networking, referrals, and industry research to identify qualified candidates. not just those actively applying.

 

How long does a typical search take?

Search timelines vary. Searches can take 2–12 weeks, depending on complexity, geography, and candidate availability.

 

What do you need from us to start a search?

We typically request:

  • Job description or role summary
  • Compensation range
  • Hiring priorities and must-have requirements
  • Company overview and culture highlights
  • Interview process and timeline
  • Company benefits information

 

Do you assist with interview scheduling and communication?

Yes. We coordinate interviews, help manage candidate communication, and support a smooth process from first conversation through offer.

 

Can you help us refine the job description or candidate profile?

Absolutely. We often help clients sharpen requirements, clarify success metrics, and recommend compensation ranges based on market feedback.

 

How do you evaluate candidates?

We assess:

  • Relevant experience and performance
  • Career progression and leadership ability
  • Communication and professionalism
  • Cultural alignment
  • Motivation and role fit

 

Do you provide references or background checks?

We can assist with references and may help coordinate additional screening depending on the engagement and client preferences.

 

Do you recruit confidentially?

Yes. Confidential searches are common, especially for leadership hires or replacement roles.

 

What happens if a candidate does not work out?

Depending on the search agreement, replacement terms may apply. We will work with you to address issues quickly and professionally. We have a 99% success rate.

 

Candidates Frequently Asked Questions

Does it cost anything to work with The Pursell Group?

No. Candidates never pay fees. Employers pay recruiting fees.

 

How do I get considered for roles?

You can:

  • Submit your resume,
  • Apply for a posted opportunity, or
  • Speak with a recruiter if you are contacted for a role.

 

If I submit my resume, will someone contact me?

We will reach out if we have an opportunity that matches your background and goals. Because we fill specialized roles, timing may vary.

 

Will my resume be shared without my permission?

No. We will not present you to a client without discussing the role and receiving your approval.

 

Are searches confidential?

Yes. We treat all candidate information and conversations professionally and confidentially.

 

What should I expect in the recruiting process?

Most processes include:

  1. Initial call
  2. Resume review and screening
  3. Client interview(s)
  4.  Offer negotiation and acceptance
  5. Follow-up support

 

Can you help me prepare for interviews?

Yes. We provide guidance on:

  • Role expectations
  • Interview format
  • Client/company insights
  • How to present your strengths effectively

 

Can you help with compensation negotiation?

We can help you understand the offer structure, prepare negotiation conversations, and communicate professionally through the process.

 

What if I am not selected for a role?

Candidates can be considered for multiple opportunities over time. Staying connected and keeping your resume updated improves future matching.

 

How can I improve my chances of being selected?

  • Keep your resume current
  • Be clear about your goals and preferences
  • Respond promptly
  • Prepare for interviews
  • Be transparent about compensation expectations and timeline