“Do the Work” — A Conversation With WETA’s Denise Freeman on Executive Transition

Transitioning into any new job can be difficult, but transitioning at an executive level brings its own set of unique challenges and roadblocks.

Stanton Chase recently sat down with placement Denise Freeman, who was welcomed to WETA as Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer in May 2023. Freeman has over 20 years of highly-varied experience in human resources leadership and diversity management in various fields, including pharmaceuticals, insurance, law, and now public media.

As Freeman began to think about the next step in her career, she initially connected with Stanton Chase consultant Tracy Ferry through the CHIEF network, where she learned about the opportunity at WETA.

Freeman believes that networking and focused preparation are critical elements for making a successful transition. “It is important that candidates do the work necessary to secure the jobs they desire,” she said. “Whether you’re using a recruiter or doing things on your own, I see people putting a lot of work into updating their resumes and then using one version for all their recruiting needs. They try to showcase their talents and experience after they’re in front of someone. However, I don’t think people put enough time into the process of trying to get in front of someone.”

“That work extends beyond just getting an interview. Research the people you’re meeting,” Freeman said. “Try to find common interests when meeting with hiring managers, and take each opportunity seriously. Use those opportunities as learning experiences that will move you closer to your dream role.”

“When you do receive an offer, be prepared to negotiate if the offer is not what you wanted or expected,” Freeman advised. “Know your worth, and hold steady to that value so you don’t have to spend the rest of your career trying to catch up to the compensation you really wanted.”

“Know your worth, and hold steady to that value so you don’t have to spend the rest of your career trying to catch up to the compensation you really wanted.”

More than a headhunter or executive recruiter, Stanton Chase is a top global executive search recruitment agency that integrates a global footprint through knowledge sharing and best practices, acting locally and entrepreneurially. Our vast expertise across major industry sectors and key functional areas enables us to advise with pinpoint accuracy.

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