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Associate - 2025 Bay Area

Company Overview


SPMB is the #1 executive search firm serving the technology market and one of the largest independent retained search firms in the country. In 2021, SPMB was recognized and ranked #5 among “America’s Top 99 Retained Executive Search Firms.” We specialize in recruiting C-Level Executives and Board Members to disruptive, growth-oriented startups as well as Fortune 500 companies in technology, financial, consumer, media, health, and sustainability industries. 


We bring the knowledge of a large, global firm and combine it with the personalized service and attention of a boutique to connect top executive talent to the best and fastest growing innovators across the country. Closing hundreds of C-Level searches annually, SPMB has recruited key leaders into companies that have generated over $1 trillion in market value (IPOs/M&As) for our clients.



The SPMB team is made up of open minded, driven, and dedicated individuals. To be a part of the SPMB team you support a “We vs I” mentality and stand behind our 3 cultural values: Work Right, Work Together, and Work Hard.


For more information, visit our website at https://spmb.com/



Position Overview 


SPMB is looking for a thoughtful and professional Associate who will serve as a key member of the client delivery team by driving the candidate development process throughout each VP and C-level executive search. This role partners closely with the Partner and analyst to help deliver outstanding outcomes for our clients. Associates are responsible for working directly with our public and private clients, managing the day-to-day details of search engagements, facilitating discussions with candidates and directing the research activities of internal teams. The core function of the Associate’s role is relationship development and management, including networking and building strong relationships with senior clients and candidates.  This role is an unique opportunity to interface with key senior executives as well as investors from the venture capital, private equity and public company community. 


Major Responsibilities
  • Gathers key information from the client to gain a thorough understanding of the company, culture and position requirements.
  • Collaborates with the Partner and analyst to develop and execute the search strategy.
  • Develops key search documentation including position descriptions, candidate assessments, status updates and reference reference reports.
  • Helps drive research efforts and strategy to ensure the identification of high quality candidates while serving as a mentor and coach to the analyst
  • Contacts potential candidates to elicit interest and to assess the candidate’s fit to the position description.
  • Teams with the Partner to provide our clients with an informed perspective on candidates and provide updates on the overall progress of the search assignment. 
  • Ensures data capture of candidates, clients and search records within SPMB's databases. Add to the firm’s candidate pool expertise by identifying new talent.


Ideal Experience
  • Minimum of 2-4 years of progressive experience in executive search or in an internal recruiting role for a relevant organization.
  • Tenure working in a high-performance environment with a focus on client service.
  • Deep market knowledge within one or more of the key industry segments that we serve. 
  • An undergraduate degree is required.


Critical Capabilities for Success
  • Candidate Development: Develops qualified and interested candidates across a portfolio of searches through targeted company research, industry sources and relevant prior sources.
  • Project Management: Plans, manages and drives own efforts when handling multiple projects with competing deadlines. Comfortable and flexible to work with individuals with differing styles
  • Collaboration & Influence: Works with and through others to achieve common goals and desired results. Uses language to gather information to facilitate an exchange of ideas.
  • Analytical: Synthesizes business research and provides a succinct and accurate point of view. Capable of making inferential leaps in thinking to reach a solution despite incomplete or ambiguous information.
  • Communication: Speaks with clarity, precision and purpose to individuals or small groups. Adapts communication style for the audience and situation.


Preferred Attributes
  • Initiative & drive
  • Ownership mentality
  • Team oriented
  • Intellectually curious
  • Quick learner
  • Aligns with the firm’s core values & purpose


For more information about SPMB, visit our website at spmb.com


The pay scale for this role is $80-100k.

This does not include a per search performance bonus.

Average salary estimate

$90000 / YEARLY (est.)
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$80000K
$100000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Associate - 2025 Bay Area, SPMB

At SPMB, we are excited to announce an opening for an Associate to join our dynamic team in the Bay Area. As the leading executive search firm focused on the technology sector, we take pride in connecting top-tier talent with innovative organizations. The Associate will play a critical role in our client delivery team, driving the candidate development process for VP and C-level searches. You'll work closely with our Partners and analysts, ensuring a smooth and successful search experience for our clients. This position is perfect for someone who thrives on building relationships and enjoys interfacing with senior executives and investors. Responsibilities include gathering vital client information, developing search strategies, managing documentation, and contacting potential candidates. The right candidate will bring 2-4 years of experience in executive search or internal recruiting, strong analytical skills, and an ownership mentality that aligns with our firm’s cultural values. At SPMB, we believe in hard work, collaboration, and the power of a 'We vs I' mentality. If you're ready to contribute to an energetic and committed team while sourcing top executive talent for visionary companies, we’d love to hear from you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Associate - 2025 Bay Area Role at SPMB
What are the main responsibilities of the Associate role at SPMB in the Bay Area?

The Associate at SPMB is tasked with managing key responsibilities throughout the executive search process, including gathering information to understand client needs, collaborating with Partners on search strategies, and developing search documentation. Additionally, Associates play a critical role in networking and communicating with candidates, fostering strong relationships with both clients and potential candidates to ensure successful placements.

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What qualifications are required for the Associate position at SPMB?

To qualify for the Associate position at SPMB, candidates should have 2-4 years of experience in executive search or internal recruiting. A strong background in a high-performance environment focused on client service is essential, alongside an undergraduate degree. Experience within key industry segments served by SPMB is also highly valued.

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How does SPMB promote professional growth for Associates in Bay Area?

At SPMB, we prioritize mentorship and coaching as critical components of professional development. Associates will work closely with Partners and analysts, gaining invaluable experience in executive search processes and relationship management. Additionally, the collaborative culture and our commitment to personal accountability create an environment that encourages learning and growth.

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What skills are needed to succeed as an Associate at SPMB?

Successful Associates at SPMB possess strong candidate development abilities, excellent project management skills, and the capability to work collaboratively. Analytical thinking is crucial, as is effective communication tailored to diverse audiences. We also value initiative, teamwork, and intellectual curiosity, all aligned with our firm’s core values.

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What is the pay scale for the Associate position at SPMB in the Bay Area?

The pay scale for the Associate position at SPMB ranges from $80,000 to $100,000, not including potential performance bonuses based on search outcomes. This competitive compensation reflects our commitment to attracting top talent and fostering excellence within our team.

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Common Interview Questions for Associate - 2025 Bay Area
What motivated you to apply for the Associate position at SPMB?

When responding, it's beneficial to express your passion for connecting talent with opportunities and your understanding of SPMB's reputation in the executive search industry. Highlight your enthusiasm for supporting strategic leadership placements within innovative companies.

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Can you describe your experience with executive search or recruiting?

Provide insights into relevant roles you've held, emphasizing accomplishments in candidate sourcing, relationship management, or project execution. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and how they pertain to the responsibilities outlined for the Associate position.

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How do you approach developing relationships with senior candidates?

Discuss your networking strategies, focusing on genuine relationship-building techniques. Emphasize the importance of listening, understanding candidates' interests, and aligning them with client needs to create a strong connection.

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Describe a time you had to manage competing priorities. How did you ensure success?

Use a structured example to illustrate your project management skills. Explain your prioritization process, how you communicated with stakeholders, and the steps you took to meet deadlines without sacrificing quality.

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What strategies would you employ to assess candidates for fit within the company culture?

Outline your approach to gaining insights into both the client’s culture and the candidates' values. Discuss leveraging conversations, assessments, and detailed interviews to determine alignment and potential fit.

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How do you stay informed about industry trends impacting executive search?

Mention sources such as industry publications, conferences, and professional networks that you follow. Highlight your commitment to continuous learning and adapting to shifts that impact recruiting in the technology sector.

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What role does collaboration play in your work style?

Discuss your belief in teamwork, providing examples where collaboration led to successful outcomes in past roles. Share how you foster collective effort and utilize diverse team strengths to achieve goals.

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In your opinion, what makes an effective search strategy?

Explain the elements that contribute to a successful search strategy, including understanding client needs, targeting the right candidate pools, and tailoring communication. Provide examples of how you would formulate and implement those strategies.

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How would you handle difficult conversations with clients or candidates?

Describe your communication style and emphasize the importance of empathy and transparency. Share your approach to difficult conversations, perhaps illustrating with an example where you maintained professionalism and delivered difficult news.

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Why do you believe you align with SPMB's core values?

Reflect on SPMB's cultural values and choose aspects that resonate with you. Discuss specific experiences that demonstrate your commitment to working hard, collaborating with others, and maintaining an ownership mentality.

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Founded in 1977, SPMB is a dependent technology search firm. They are headquartered in San Francisco, California.

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Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
January 12, 2025

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