StayWell Health Management: Passing the Torch

StayWell Cos. CEO Hal Higby came to KeyStone Search to help him solve a problem that concerned all of the executive leadership of StayWell, its parent company, MediMedia Inc. and its private equity owners. John Tarbuck, President of StayWell Health Management, had announced his intention to retire for family reasons. John had been at StayWell since it was spun out of Control Data decades before. He was beloved of all employees and was a name synonymous with their industry. In essence, he was the embodiment of their culture. Because cultural fit was imperative, KeyStone was the perfect partner for this executive search.

The position of President required significant background in the corporate wellness industry as well as top-notch operational leadership. The ability to connect with large client contacts was a must. Most importantly, the new president absolutely, positively needed to embody the strong culture at StayWell and have the ability and passion to sustain it.

KeyStone partners met with Hal Higby, John Tarbuck and other leaders within StayWell. A values survey of the top leadership at StayWell provided more specific information about the organization's culture. KeyStone also attended one of the company's quarterly social events to get a more personal feel of the company. It was clear that replacing a beloved founder would be no small task.

A rigorous search process including contacts to over 200 experienced individuals produced a slate of nine qualified candidates. Two internal candidates, not quite ready for the position, were interviewed multiple times in order to help them assess their strengths and prepare development plans for future promotions. Ultimately, three finalists met with the corporate team. Throughout the process, values and cultural fit were a focus of the interviews. Hal Higby struggled to choose from the finalists, but ultimately selected Dr. Paul Terry, who was president of a related firm in StayWell's industry and considered a thought leader in the field. Today, Mr. Higby is sleeping well at night, knowing that the company is in good executive hands and that the culture built by John Tarbuck has been honored and will be upheld.

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