What was your role while at Development Guild?
Kelsey Hersh
I started at DG the summer after I graduated college as an intern, and then became an Assistant focused on both client fundraising work and HR/internal projects. Over the years that I was there I became an Associate, and then a Consultant, focusing on all of our internal projects – including our internal recruitment, HR reviews, operations of our Boston and NY offices, planning office retreats, etc. I also worked on our internal newsletter and all kinds of other projects for Kate, Deb, and Suzi. I had the opportunity to work on candidate research for a number of client executive search projects, too. Really, a little of everything!
What did you take away from your time here that has served you well in your career?
So much! I think the most important thing that I learned at DG was how to communicate well with different personalities and work styles. I learned quickly how to adapt my approach to each project lead, how to write professionally for clients and internal teams, and how to manage multiple projects efficiently. I also learned everything I know about recruitment, including how to conduct a challenging and thoughtful interview (thanks, Kate!) which has served me so well in my career.
In addition to all of these things, DG helped me think and plan strategically. Being part of the internal team allowed me to see the decision making process, and DG is incredibly thoughtful in how it navigates transition. I valued the opportunity to not only see the big picture, but developed the skills to contribute to those conversations. The ability to think big picture (about even small decisions) has been hugely valuable!
What have you been up to since leaving?
On the wedding day!
I left Development Guild in 2015 to work at Northeastern as a Co-op Counselor. I also started my Masters in Higher Education at Northeastern (focusing on higher ed administration) at that time, which I wrapped up in 2017. Since then, I also got married out in my home state of California, and took a couple of great trips to Hawaii and New Zealand (always in search of the sun!).
Tell us more about your current role.
I’m currently a Co-op Faculty member at Northeastern, working with finance students in the D’Amore-McKim School of Business. I teach a course on job-preparedness, help students with resume and interview skills, and work closely with businesses to recruit students for their co-op roles. I am also our Assistant Director of Operations, so I manage our recruitment team, overseeing interview scheduling and logistics, event management, and reporting on placement and student metrics.
Recently, I’ve also been working closely with students to build out our impact investing programming and job opportunities on campus, something that resonates with me after my time at DG!
What is your fondest memory from your time at Development Guild?
I still have such great friendships with my colleagues from DG, and I feel so lucky that I was able to work with them and all of the smart, dedicated people there. I’ll also never forget planning our office parties and retreats, like our clambake or cooking class!
Do you have any advice you would like to give to incoming employees?
Development Guild is an amazing place to grow as a professional. If you have the opportunity to work at DG, take advantage of the exposure that you get to experienced and passionate colleagues because they are so willing to teach and mentor. It is an incredible learning environment!
Exploring New Zealand