The Christopher Group Seeking Top HR Leaders for System Pavers and United Educators

December 7, 2023 – The Christopher Group (TCG), a boutique HR executive search and business solutions recruiting firm, has been retained by System Pavers and United Educators to lead in the searches for a chief talent officer and head of human resources, respectively. System Pavers is the Nation’s largest outdoor remodeling and lifestyle company. “This is one of the most unique searches we will do this year,” said Nat Schiffer, who is leading this assignment along with recruiting director Kristen Perez. The impact that this leader will have will be directly correlated to the company’s success, thus it isn’t surprising that the rewards and recognition offered are also commensurate with the size, scale, and scope of the opportunity. All the linkages are in place, we are extremely honored to have been selected for the assignment, and we can’t wait to live up to our end of the bargain. System Pavers has a real and embedded commitment to human capital which will be a tremendous plus for this future leader.”

The chief talent officer is a key member of the executive team and is responsible for overseeing all aspects of human resources, talent management, development, and acquisition within the company. This role will serve as the strategical leader in creating and executing a comprehensive talent strategy that enables and empowers the company’s steep growth objectives as it expands into new geographies coupled with the company’s direct-to-consumer sales-driven objectives.

Under the guidance of CEO Syed Zaidi, System Pavers has earned the trust of over 100,000 homeowners seeking to elevate their lifestyles through enduring outdoor transformations. Established in 1992, the company boasts a dedicated team of over 600 professionals and operates in multiple states, including Arizona, California, Texas, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington. System Pavers’ cutting-edge technology, design prowess, installation proficiency, and personalized service have resulted in an impressive 95+ percent customer satisfaction rating.

United Educators, a reciprocal risk retention group, is seeking a head of HR to a pivotal role in nurturing and enhancing a culture of employee empowerment and well-being. “Within this professional yet congenial environment, the HR function is not just a support pillar but a driving force behind the company’s success,” The Christopher Group said. “This individual leads by exemplifying a commitment to employee satisfaction, ensuring that policies and programs align with the company’s ethos of valuing its workforce. They will champion initiatives that promote work-life balance, career growth, and diversity, leveraging a high performing HR team that’s recognized for its strategic insights and operational excellence. Their role isn’t just about policies and procedures or transactional HR; it’s about fostering a workplace where employees feel heard, valued, and motivated to contribute their best, ultimately fueling the company’s continued success and positive culture.”

“We’re thrilled to embark on the executive search for United Educators,” said Mr. Schiffer, who is also leading this assignment with Ms. Perez. “Our commitment lies not just in finding an exceptional leader, but in aligning their vision,  mission, and core values of an organization dedicated to safeguarding education. United Educators isn’t solely an insurer; it’s a seamless collaboration between the realms of insurance and education. As we seek top-tier talent, we’ll be mindful of this synergy, ensuring that those chosen not only possess remarkable leadership acumen but also embody a profound understanding of the intersection between risk management and the nurturing of academic environments.”

Related: The Christopher Group Recruits Director of Global Talent Acquisition for STERIS 

Founded in 1998 by Tom and Paula Christopher (former HR executives with GE, Pepsi, Progressive Insurance, and Citigroup), The Christopher Group is a leading boutique HR executive search and staffing solutions firms. TCG is staffed by former HR professionals and trained search practitioners who use proprietary, scientific and industry-leading systems, tools, and processes. The firm has offices in Willoughby, OH; Sarasota, FL; and Kansas City, MO.

Mr. Schiffer, CEO of the firm, specializes in all levels of HR search but frequently leads the firm’s most senior-level searches including CHRO, VP, and other levels. He has recently completed searches across multiple industries and HR verticals for organizations including Phillips 66, Lamb Weston, Parker Hannifin, Air Products, Altria, SC Johnson, Cal State Fullerton, and Acorn start-ups such as OYO Rooms.

Ms. Perez brings over 18 years of experience to Nordson Corp. Previously, she was head of HR for the business group functional organizations at Honeywell, where she managed more than 3,000 people across finance, legal, IT, M&A, transformation and commercial excellence for an $11 billion Honeywell strategic business group.

New Ownership

The Christopher Group was acquired by a group of managing partners led by Nat Schiffer on March 31, 2023. The acquisition allows the firm to continue its growth trajectory while ensuring a smooth ownership transition. “The acquisition of The Christopher Group by its managing partners is a testament to the strength, depth, and resilience of our company,” said Mr. Christopher. “We are excited to have all of the partners take the reins and continue our legacy of excellence in the HR industry we support.”

The transition of ownership will be virtually seamless for the clients and candidates that TCG serves. Mr. Schiffer will serve as president and managing director; Pam Noble as managing partner, head of recruiting operations; Ayla Maloney as managing partner, head of people operations; and Tobin Anselmi, as managing partner, head of interim and consulting services operations.

“The acquisition brings a new level of energy and focus to The Christopher Group, with a renewed emphasis on innovation, client service, and operational efficiency,” the firm said. “The new leadership team is committed to building on the company’s incredible foundation while igniting new chapters of growth and innovation.”

“We are thrilled to be taking ownership of such a dynamic and successful company,” said Mr. Schiffer. “We are committed to capitalizing on the ever-growing demand for human capital solutions.  With that said, I would be remiss if I did not thank Tom and Paula Christopher for their 25-plus years of contribution, innovation, financial support, and so much more. Additionally, they both will play important roles going forward as advisors and consultants, and Tom and I will continue our partnership in critical business development opportunities.”

Related: The Christopher Group Tapped by Dellbrook | JKS to Lead Top HR Search

Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief; Dale M. Zupsansky, Executive Editor; Lily Fauver, Senior Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media

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