DeLaina Sarden is a Principal at Parker Executive Search, a leading global executive search firm known for its expertise in higher education and sports. With a background in college athletics, DeLaina previously worked at the University of Wisconsin and Michigan State University, focusing on student-athlete success. An accomplished former volleyball player at the University of Central Florida, she played a pivotal role in leading the team to significant achievements.
In her role at Parker Executive Search, DeLaina specializes in full-cycle recruitment for leadership positions in higher education and collegiate athletics, leveraging her strong communication skills and passion for building authentic relationships.
Here’s a Glimpse of What You’ll Learn:
- [0:21] Introduction to DeLaina Sarden and Corinne’s conversation about personal stories and professional journeys.
- [1:28] DeLaina shares about her exciting work travel experiences and her role at Parker Executive Search.
- [4:02] The purpose of the conversation: providing resources and insights for executives, founders, and people leaders, showcasing best practices.
- [5:17] DeLaina highlights a favorite project: conducting the head track and field coach search for Austin Peay and building a strong relationship with their AD, Gerald Harrison.
- [9:20] Discussion on client relationships and the importance of balancing individuality and collaboration in leadership roles.
- [12:19] DeLaina talks about key mentors who have influenced her journey and how they impact her leadership style.
- [18:33] Reflections on DeLaina’s accomplishments as a student-athlete and her upcoming induction into UCF’s Athletics Hall of Fame.
- [23:39] The pivotal moment in DeLaina’s career: transitioning from campus work to Parker Executive Search, and the lessons learned about accountability and leadership.
- [28:26] Insights into Parker Executive Search’s approach to recruitment and facilitating leadership searches for higher education and sports organizations.
- [34:00] The role of authenticity and relationship-building in recruiting and consulting.
- [41:24] Qualities that make a great leader during the hiring process, focusing on communication, conflict management, connection, and progression.
- [49:37] DeLaina’s motivation to give back and empower the next generation of leaders in athletics, and how her student-athlete experience shaped her passion.
- [53:07] Balancing work and personal life: strategies DeLaina uses to manage professional responsibilities while making time for her personal passions, like golf.
- [57:41] What DeLaina hopes to see change in talent acquisition: reducing “brand shopping” and focusing on talent over institutional prestige.
- [1:03:33] Closing thoughts on the importance of kindness and doing impactful work in leadership and recruitment.
In This Episode…
Are traditional methods of leadership recruitment in sports and higher education truly tapping into the full spectrum of talent available? How can we redefine these practices to be more inclusive and effective?
According to DeLaina Sarden, a dynamic leader with extensive experience in student-athlete success and executive search, rethinking recruitment practices is crucial for tapping into diverse talent pools. She emphasizes the need to move beyond brand-focused recruitment, advocating for a more inclusive approach that prioritizes talent and capability over institutional prestige. Drawing from her own journey in athletics and executive search, DeLaina underscores the importance of creating a more equitable and comprehensive talent search process.
In this episode of WRK & WIN, host Corinne Milien engages in an insightful conversation with DeLaina Sarden, Principal at Parker Executive Search. They discuss DeLaina’s innovative approach to leadership recruitment, her strong advocacy for inclusivity in sports and higher education, and her commitment to empowering future leaders. This episode provides insightful perspectives on breaking traditional norms in talent acquisition and fostering a more capable and diverse leadership landscape.
Sponsor for this episode…
This episode is brought to you by WRK.
Managing a successful business is about more than just the bottom line — it’s about the people who make it happen.
WRK is your go-to partner for people-powered HR and strategic partnerships, designed to overcome your toughest workforce challenges.
From fostering employee engagement through positive employee relations to developing future leaders with their Leadership Development programs, WRK‘s services are designed to maximize the performance of your team and ensure a vibrant, inclusive work culture.
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