Meredith A. Funston
With over ten years of retained executive search experience, Meredith has recruited senior and mid-level executives in general management, merchandising, product development, design, sales and marketing, public relations, communications, human resources, development and fundraising. Her work has spanned a variety of industries throughout the corporate and nonprofit sectors, from retail and wholesale of consumer products, manufacturing, aerospace/defense, to public radio and nonprofit leadership.
Following in her father’s footsteps (R.B. Funston Associates NY, NY), inspired by his reputation for exceptional service to his search clients, Meredith founded her firm in 2001 following her experience as Managing Director of New Business Development for a boutique firm in Chicago. Today she serves her clients in the areas of recruiting, organizational and staff development, and executive volunteering.
Prior to her executive search career, Meredith was an executive with Neiman Marcus, the world renowned luxury goods specialty store devoted to the perfection of customer service, quality and leadership in the fashion industry. Her accomplishments spanned 18 years in leadership positions including Human Resources and General Management. She built dynamic and diverse management and sales teams and developed comprehensive business strategies incorporating sales, marketing, promotional events and manpower planning. She developed and implemented programs in recruiting, hiring and retention methods, employee recognition, performance evaluation and professional development. Inspired by legendary founder, Mr. Stanley Marcus, Meredith applies his “Quest for the Best” approach in her work today.
For volunteer commitments and professional affiliations, see CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility).
“Often as a small nonprofit one thinks that this type of professional consulting is out of range but Meredith was able to scale back the process to fit the needs of our organization so that the service was efficient, thorough, successful and affordable. Nonprofits rarely have an HR department, so being able to get professional service was very helpful. The “outside” perspective on the position description, refining roles and responsibilities appropriately and articulating the position opportunity in a clear and compelling manner were incredibly beneficial to the process. Her timely and professional vetting of candidates and thorough follow-up was invaluable. We completed the new hire process in record time compared to what it would have taken our staff to “fit it in” with the rest of our day-to-day operations.”
Marianne M. Jones, Executive Director, Women's Fund of New Hampshire