Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Early Career
Certification
Hobbies and Interests
Timeline
Generic
BRIDGET PAPANICHOLAS

BRIDGET PAPANICHOLAS

Chicago,IL

Summary

Experienced leader with a track record of driving business growth and strategic planning, poised to transition into an executive position. Known for fostering team collaboration and achieving results in dynamic environments. Proficient in financial management, operational excellence, and stakeholder engagement. Recognized for reliability and impactful leadership.

Overview

20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

EVP, Engineering and Construction

STSI
12.2024 - 05.2025

A boutique staffing firm, STSI specializes in placing contract and contract to hire engineering support roles in Construction and Design Engineering firms. Following its acquisition by Qualified Staffing, I was recruited to lead the STSI division and expand Executive and Retained search projects. Industries supported include: Infrastructure, Energy, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, Mission Critical design.


  • Spearheaded organizational change management efforts, leading to enhanced employee engagement and productivity.
  • Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions, and make decisions.
  • Managed risk effectively by implementing robust policies and procedures designed to mitigate potential threats to the business.
  • Promoted a culture of accountability through regular performance evaluations, constructive feedback, and rewards for exceptional contributions towards company goals.
  • Streamlined operations for increased efficiency by identifying areas for improvement and implementing process changes.
  • Fostered a culture of innovation, encouraging the development and implementation of new business strategies.
  • Oversaw business-wide changes to modernize procedures and organization.
  • Maintained P&L and shouldered divisional fiscal responsibility.
  • Represented organization at industry conferences and events.
  • Devised and presented business plans and forecasts to board of directors.

Managing Director

TRANSEARCH International
02.2010 - 12.2024

During my 15 years with the firm, I have been a hands-on and insightful project leader focused on executive search and leadership development projects throughout North America. Promoted into operational and organize wide leadership role after six years as a search leader. Industry expertise in Renewable and Clean Energy, Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Infrastructure.


  • Optimized sales process, increasing revenue and conversion rates.
  • Pioneered new service offerings for long-term growth.
  • Expanded global marketing network and championed diversity/inclusion initiatives.
  • Upgraded technology platforms (CRM, ATS, VoIP) and led training.
  • Systematized marketing operations and enhanced website/strategy.
  • Transitioned the business to Professional Employer Organization (PEO) system, reducing costs.
  • Restructured financial/accounting systems for improved profitability insights.
  • Established effective leadership support system for direct reports.
  • Increased overall company performance by implementing strategic management initiatives and streamlining operations.
  • Cultivated a strong organizational culture built on integrity accountability teamwork which resulted in higher retention rates among staff.
  • Championed process improvement initiatives to streamline workflows, reduce costs, and enhance productivity.
  • Revitalized company's online presence, launching user-friendly website and engaging social media platforms.
  • Optimized operational efficiencies, streamlining processes through introduction of cutting-edge technology.
  • Championed adoption of remote work technologies, ensuring business continuity and employee wellbeing during challenging times.
  • Strengthened stakeholder relationships, providing regular updates and managing expectations through effective communication strategies.
  • Elevated brand recognition on global scale by executing comprehensive digital marketing campaign.
  • Enhanced team productivity with implementation of agile methodologies, fostering culture of continuous improvement.
  • Assisted in recruiting, hiring and training of team members.
  • Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.

Senior Associate, Director of Training

JobPlex, Inc
06.2005 - 01.2009

Mid-Market recruiting firm focused on placing management and functional leaders. I supported clients in Retail, Government, Insurance and Finance sectors.


  • Project Manager of company’s first onsite, high volume staffing project.
  • Developed and implemented three-day training program for incoming recruiting and research associates.
  • Managed cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality projects on time and within budget.
  • Enhanced team productivity by implementing efficient project management strategies.
  • Developed comprehensive training programs that improved employee performance and skillsets.
  • Coached junior team members to build their expertise in key areas, fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth.
  • Maintained positive customer relations by addressing problems head-on and implementing successful corrective actions.
  • Cultivated positive rapport with fellow employees to boost company morale and promote employee retention.

Education

John Carroll University
01.1992

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University College at Northwestern University
01.1994

Skills

  • Candidate assessment
  • Culture assessment
  • Employee engagement
  • Employer branding
  • Executive search
  • Leadership assessment
  • Organizational development
  • Talent acquisition
  • Operations management
  • Staff management
  • Quality assurance
  • Team collaboration

Early Career

AB Dick, a Presstek Company (2004 – 2005)

Inside Sales Representative

Corestaff (2003-2005)

Account Executive, Temporary and Permanent Staffing

The Esquire Staffing Group (1999-2001)

Recruiter, Temporary and Permanent Staffing

Certification

Hogan Personality Assessment

Hobbies and Interests

Children’s Health and Wellbeing, Education, Gardening, Human Rights, Inclusion and Diversity, Social Justice, Sustainability, Environmental

Timeline

EVP, Engineering and Construction

STSI
12.2024 - 05.2025

Managing Director

TRANSEARCH International
02.2010 - 12.2024

Senior Associate, Director of Training

JobPlex, Inc
06.2005 - 01.2009

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University College at Northwestern University

John Carroll University