Nora Sutherland, Senior Associate

Q&A with Nora

1. Tell us about your path here. Why did you choose to join Acertitude?

My story in executive search has come full circle. Earlier in my career, I was introduced to executive search and was drawn to the client-facing aspect, as well as building meaningful relationships with candidates. From there, I spent a decade in the world of social impact and social enterprise with most of that time focused on forging strong partnerships with clients and global executives at enterprise and SMB levels.

Ultimately, I came back to search through my role as a senior associate in Korn Ferry’s CEO/Board practice. Acertitude presented a unique opportunity to partner with top-tier privately and publicly held clients in an agile organization where my impact is seen every day. I value the role I have taken on to contribute to Acertitude’s future as a high-growth, global talent consultancy.

2. Describe a day in your life. Favorite parts of your job?

Each day at Acertitude is focused on providing the optimal client and candidate experience. Whether I am conducting outreach, providing market insights to our clients, mentoring team members, or driving forward firm-wide initiatives, I bring a consultative mindset.

One of my favorite parts of this job is hearing client feedback; that our successful candidate placements are unleashing their full potential, driving business outcomes and thriving in their roles.

3. What is special about working here?

I am energized by being a part of a co-founder led business, where pure tenacity and grit to deliver for our clients is valued.

4. How has Acertitude helped you grow and perform at your best?

Acertitude has encouraged me to continuously learn and develop myself as an executive by providing significant opportunities to be mentored and to mentor others. I love that I can bring my authentic self to work as both an executive and a human being.

5. In what ways - big or small - do you live out our mission of unleashing human potential?

Professionally, I live out our mission of unleashing human potential by partnering with world-class clients to attract and retain talent that will transform their businesses, and by placing executives in career-defining roles that will change the trajectory of their professional and personal lives.

Personally, I live out our mission of unleashing human potential by raising two amazing kiddos and volunteering in my community.

6. What advice do you have for people looking to join Acertitude? What qualities do people need to be successful here?

People who are successful here are intellectually curious, they have a passion for their work, and they are solutions oriented. If you are looking to join Acertitude, get to know our people, understand our process, and see if it aligns with your core values.

Nora at a glance...

Our culture is...	human-centered, inclusive, and energizing.
I live by the fundamental...	every connection is important.
The most valuable lesson I've learned is...	that the principle of “Unreasonable Hospitality” by Will Guidara applies to all sectors, including executive search, and there is “remarkable power in giving people more than they expect.”