HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-237 Resolution No. 07-237
RESOLUTION
AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF AN AGREEMENT WITH
PAR GROUP, L.L.C. RELATING TO AN EXECUTIVE SEARCH
FOR A NEW FIRE CHIEF
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ELGIN,ILLINOIS,that
Olufemi Folarin,City Manager,and Diane Robertson,City Clerk,be and are hereby authorized and
directed to execute an agreement on behalf of the City of Elgin with Par Group, L.L.C. for
professional services in connection with an executive search to select a new city fire chief,a copy of
which is attached hereto and made a part hereof by reference.
s/Ed Schock
Ed Schock, Mayor
Presented: September 26, 2007
Adopted: September 26, 2007
Vote: Yeas: 7 Nays: 0
Attest:
s/Diane Robertson
Diane Robertson, City Clerk
AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into thisalkday of 9!1][1 j1► '02007,by and between
the CITY OF ELGIN,an Illinois municipal corporation(hereinafte referred to as"CITY")and THE
PAR GROUP, L.L.C., an Illinois limited liability company (hereinafter referred to as
"CONSULTANT").
WHEREAS,the CITY desires to engage the CONSULTANT to furnish certain professional services
in connection with assisting the City Manager of the City in an executive search to select a new city
fire chief(hereinafter referred to as the PROJECT); and
WHEREAS,the CONSULTANT represents that it is in compliance with Illinois Statutes relating to
professional registration of individuals and has the necessary expertise and experience to furnish
such services upon the terms and conditions set forth herein below.
NOW,THEREFORE,it is hereby agreed by and between the CITY and the CONSULTANT that the
CITY does hereby retain the CONSULTANT for and in consideration of the mutual promises and
covenants contained herein,the sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged to act for and represent
it in the consulting matters involved in the PROJECT as described herein, subject to the following
terms and conditions and stipulations, to-wit:
1. SCOPE OF SERVICES
A. All work hereunder shall be performed under the direction of the City Manager of the
CITY, herein after referred to as the "DIRECTOR".
B. The CONSULTANT shall provide consultant services in connection with an
executive search for a new City Fire Chief as detailed in the City of Elgin, Illinois
Request for Proposals Executive Search Firm consisting of four (4) pages, and
CONSULTANT'S response to such request dated August 8, 2007, such materials
being attached hereto as Exhibit "A".
2. SCHEDULE
CONSULTANT shall provide the services pursuant to this Agreement according to the
Schedule set forth in Exhibit "A" entitled "City of Elgin, Illinois Fire Chief Proposed
Recruitment Timetable".
3. WORK PRODUCTS
All work products prepared by the CONSULTANT pursuant hereto including, but not
limited to,reports, designs, calculations,work drawings, studies,photographs,models and
recommendations shall be the property of the CITY and shall be delivered to the CITY upon
request of the DIRECTOR provided,however,that the CONSULTANT may retain copies of
such work products for its records. Such work products are not intended or represented to be
suitable for reuse by the CITY on any extension to the PROJECT or on any other project,and
such reuse shall be at the sole risk of the CITY without liability or legal exposure to the
CONSULTANT.
4. PAYMENTS TO THE CONSULTANT
A. For the services provided by the CONSULTANT pursuant to this Agreement the
CITY shall pay the CONSULTANT a lump sum professional fee of Fourteen
Thousand Five Hundred Dollars and no/100ths($14,500.00)regardless of the actual
costs incurred by the CONSULTANT unless substantial modifications to the Scope
of Work are authorized in writing by the CITY and approved by the City Council.
Such professional fee shall be payable in three(3)equal payments,billed during the
course of the recruitment,with the first payment for professional services due upon
acceptance of the CONSULTANT'S proposal,the second statement billed following
a recommendation of candidates, and the final one-third billing upon completion of
the recruitment assignment.
B. Reimbursable Expenses (CONSULTANT travel, postage/shipping, telephone/fax,
office support services,printing/photocopy)shall be itemized and reimbursed to the
CONSULTANT, provided, however, such reimbursable expenses shall not exceed
Four Thousand Five Hundred and no/100ths ($4,500.00) Additionally, the CITY
shall reimburse the CONSULTANT for education verification and court/credit/motor
vehicle records searches in the amount of$125 per finalist candidate and print media
searches (Lexis-Nexis) in the amount of$40 per finalist candidate. Reimbursable
expenses shall be billed on a monthly basis.
C. Professional announcements are generally billed to the CITY directly by publishers
and are not included in reimbursable expenses. The CONSULTANT shall discuss
with the City Manager a proposed budget for professional announcements and obtain
the City Manager's approval of a budget for same prior to proceeding with the
publication of professional announcements. Candidate travel expenses for interviews
are also not included in CONSULTANT'S fee proposal and reimbursable expenses.
5. INVOICES
A. The CONSULTANT shall submit invoices in a format approved by the CITY.
B. The CONSULTANT shall maintain records showing actual time devoted and cost
incurred. The CONSULTANT shall permit the authorized representative of the
CITY to inspect and audit all data and records of the CONSULTANT for work done
under this Agreement. The CONSULTANT shall make these records available at
reasonable times during the Agreement period,and for a year after termination of this
Agreement.
6. TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT
Notwithstanding any other provision hereof,the CITY may terminate this Agreement at any
time upon fifteen(15)days prior written notice to the CONSULTANT.In the event that this
Agreement is so terminated, the CONSULTANT shall be paid for services actually
performed and reimbursable expenses actually incurred prior to termination, except that
reimbursement shall not exceed the task amounts set forth under Paragraph 4 above.
7. TERM
This Agreement shall, unless terminated for cause or pursuant to Section 6, be deemed
concluded on the date the CITY determines that all of the CONSULTANT'S work under this
agreement is completed. A determination of completion shall not constitute a waiver of any
rights or claims which the CITY may have or thereafter acquire with respect to any term or
provision of the Agreement.
8. NOTICE OF CLAIM
If the CONSULTANT wishes to make a claim for additional compensation as a result of
action taken by the CITY, the CONSULTANT shall give written notice of his claim within
15 days after occurrence of such action. No claim for additional compensation shall be valid
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unless so made. Any changes in the CONSULTANT'S fee shall be valid only to the extent
that such changes are included in writing signed by the CITY and the CONSULTANT.
Regardless of the decision of the DIRECTOR relative to a claim submitted by the
CONSULTANT, all work required under this Agreement as determined by the DIRECTOR
shall proceed without interruption.
9. BREACH OF CONTRACT
If either party violates or breaches any term of this Agreement,such violation or breach shall
be deemed to constitute a default, and the other party has the right to seek such
administrative, contractual or legal remedies as may be suitable to the violation or breach;
and, in addition, if either party,by reason of any default, fails within fifteen(15) days after
notice thereof by the other party to comply with the conditions of the Agreement,the other
party may terminate this Agreement.
10. INDEMNIFICATION
To the fullest extent permitted by law,CONSULTANT agrees to and shall indemnify,defend
and hold harmless the CITY, its officers, employees, agents,boards and commissions from
and against any and all claims, suits, judgments, costs, attorneys fees, damages or other
relief,including but not limited to workers compensation claims, in any way resulting from
or arising out of negligent actions or omissions of the CONSULTANT in connection
herewith,including negligence or omissions of employees or agents of the CONSULTANT
arising out of the performance of this Agreement. In the event of any action against the
CITY,its officers,employees,agents,boards or commissions,covered by the foregoing duty
to indemnify,defend and hold harmless such action shall be defended by legal counsel of the
CITY'S choosing. The provisions of this paragraph shall survive any expiration and/or
termination of this agreement.
11. NO PERSONAL LIABILITY
No official, director, officer, agent or employee of the CITY shall be charged personally or
held contractually liable under any term or provision of this Agreement or because of their
execution, approval or attempted execution of this Agreement.
12. INSURANCE
A. Comprehensive Liability. The CONSULTANT shall provide,pay for and maintain
in effect, during the term of this Agreement, a policy of comprehensive general
liability insurance with limits of at least $1,000,000 aggregate for bodily injury and
$1,000,000 aggregate for property damage.
The CONSULTANT shall deliver to the DIRECTOR a Certification of Insurance
naming the CITY as additional insured. The policy shall not be modified or
terminated without thirty(30) days prior written notice to the DIRECTOR.
The Certificate of Insurance which shall include Contractual obligation assumed by
the CONSULTANT under Article 10 entitled"Indemnification" shall be provided.
This insurance shall apply as primary insurance with respect to any other insurance or
self-insurance programs afforded to the CITY. There shall be no endorsement or
modification of this insurance to make it excess over other available insurance,
alternatively, if the insurance states that it is excess or prorated, it shall be endorsed
to be primary with respect to the CITY.
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B. Comprehensive Automobile Liability. Comprehensive Automobile Liability
Insurance covering all owned,non-owned and hired motor vehicles with limits of not
less than $500,000 per occurrence for damage to property.
C. Combined Single Limit Policy. The requirements for insurance coverage for the
general liability and auto exposures may be met with a combined single limit of
$1,000,000 per occurrence subject to a$1,000,000 aggregate.
D. Professional Liability. The CONSULTANT shall carry CONSULTANTS'
Professional Liability Insurance Covering claims resulting from error,omissions or
negligent acts with a combined single limit of not less than $1,000,000 per
occurrence. A Certificate of Insurance shall be submitted to the DIRECTOR as
evidence of insurance protection. The policy shall not be modified or terminated
without thirty(30) days prior written notice to the DIRECTOR.
13. CONSTRUCTION MEANS, METHODS, TECHNIQUES, SEQUENCES,
PROCEDURES AND SAFETY
The CONSULTANT shall not have control over or charge of and shall not be responsible for
construction means,methods,techniques,sequences or procedures,or for safety precautions
and programs in connection with the construction,unless specifically identified in the Scope
of Services.
14. NONDISCRIMINATION
In all hiring or employment made possible or resulting from this Agreement,there shall be no
discrimination against any employee or applicant for employment because of sex,age,race,
color,creed,national origin,marital status,of the presence of any sensory,mental or physical
handicap, unless based upon a bona fide occupational qualification, and this requirement
shall apply to, but not be limited to, the following: employment advertising, layoff or
termination,rates of pay or other forms of compensation and selection for training,including
apprenticeship.
No person shall be denied or subjected to discrimination in receipt of the benefit of any
services or activities made possible by or resulting from this Agreement on the grounds of
sex, race, color, creed,national origin, age except minimum age and retirement provisions,
marital status or the presence of any sensory,mental or physical handicap. Any violation of
this provision shall be considered a violation of a material provision of this Agreement and
shall be grounds for cancellation, termination or suspension, in whole or in part, of the
Agreement by the CITY.
15. ASSIGNMENT AND SUCCESSORS
This Agreement and each and every portion thereof shall be binding upon the successors and
the assigns of the parties hereto; provided, however, that no assignment shall be made
without the prior written consent of the CITY.
16. DELEGATIONS AND SUBCONTRACTORS
Any assignment,delegation or subcontracting shall be subject to all the terms,conditions and
other provisions of this Agreement and the CONSULTANT shall remain liable to the CITY
with respect to each and every item,condition and other provision hereof to the same extent
that the CONSULTANT would have been obligated if it had done the work itself and no
assignment, delegation or subcontract had been made. Any proposed subcontractor shall
require the CITY'S advanced written approval.
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17. NO CO-PARTNERSHIP OR AGENCY
This agreement shall not be construed so as to create a partnership, joint venture,
employment or other agency relationship between the parties hereto.
18. SEVERABILITY
The parties intend and agreed that, if any paragraph, sub-paragraph,phrase, clause or other
provision of this Agreement, or any portion thereof, shall be held to be void or otherwise
unenforceable, all other portions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.
19. HEADINGS
The headings of the several paragraphs of this Agreement are inserted only as a matter of
convenience and for reference and in no way are they intended to define,limit or describe the
scope of intent of any provision of this Agreement, nor shall they be construed to affect in
any manner the terms and provisions hereof or the interpretation or construction thereof
20. MODIFICATION OR AMENDMENT
This Agreement and its attachments constitutes the entire Agreement of the parties on the
subject matter hereof and may not be changed,modified, discharged or extended except by
written amendment duly executed by the parties. Each party agrees that no representations or
warranties shall be binding upon the other party unless expressed in writing herein or in a
duly executed amendment hereof, or change order as herein provided.
21. APPLICABLE LAW
This Agreement shall be deemed to have been made in,and shall be construed in accordance
with the laws of the State of Illinois. Venue for the resolution of any disputes or the
enforcement of any rights pursuant to this agreement shall be in the Circuit Court of Kane
County, Illinois.
22. NEWS RELEASES
The CONSULTANT may not issue any news releases without prior approval from the
DIRECTOR, nor will the CONSULTANT make public proposals developed under this
Agreement without prior written approval from the DIRECTOR prior to said documentation
becoming matters of public record.
23. COOPERATION WITH OTHER CONSULTANTS
The CONSULTANT shall cooperate with any other consultants in the CITY'S employ or any
work associated with the PROJECT.
24. INTERFERENCE WITH PUBLIC CONTRACTING
The CONSULTANT certifies hereby that it is not barred from bidding on this contract as a
result of a violation of 720 ILCS 5/33E et seq.or any similar state or federal statute regarding
bid rigging.
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25. SEXUAL HARASSMENT
As a condition of this contract, the CONSULTANT shall have written sexual harassment
policies that include, at a minimum, the following information:
A. the illegality of sexual harassment;
B. the definition of sexual harassment under state law;
C. a description of sexual harassment, utilizing examples;
D. the vendor's internal complaint process including penalties;
E. the legal recourse,investigative and complaint process available through the Illinois
Department of Human Rights, and the Illinois Human Rights Commission;
F. directions on how to contact the department and commission;
G. protection against retaliation as provided by Section 6-101 of the Human Rights Act.
A copy of the policies shall be provided by CONSULTANT to the Department of Human
Rights upon request 775 ILCS 5/2-105.
26. WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
All recommendations and other communications by the CONSULTANT to the DIRECTOR
and to other participants which may affect cost or time of completion shall be made or
confirmed in writing. The DIRECTOR may also require other recommendations and
communications by the CONSULTANT be made or confirmed in writing.
27. NOTICES
All notices, reports and documents required under this Agreement shall be in writing and
shall be mailed by First Class Mail, postage prepaid, addressed as follows:
A. As to CITY:
Olufemi Folarin
City Manager
City of Elgin
150 Dexter Court
Elgin, Illinois 60120-5555
B. As to CONSULTANT:
Heidi Voorhees, President
The Par Group, L.L.C.
100 North Waukegan Road, Suite 211
Lake Bluff, Illinois 60044
28. COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS
Notwithstanding any other provision of this CONTRACT it is expressly agreed and
understood that in connection with the performance of this AGREEMENT that the
CONSULTANT shall comply with all applicable Federal,State,City and other requirements
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of law,including,but not limited to,any applicable requirements regarding prevailing wages,
minimum wage,workplace safety and legal status of employees. CONSULTANT shall also
at its expense secure all permits and licenses, pay all charges and fees and give all notices
necessary and incident to the due and lawful prosecution of the work, and/or the products
and/or services to be provided for in this AGREEMENT."
IN WITNESS WHEREOF,the undersigned have placed their hands and seals upon and executed this
Agreement in triplicate as though each copy hereof was an original and that there are no other oral
agreements that have not been reduced to writing in this statement.
FOR THE CITY: FOR THE CONSULTANT:
By C* a . ByAtf,NA:t, V(An
al/City anager
Attest:
City Clerk
F:\Legal Dept\Agreement\Par Group-Fire Chief Search.doc
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City of Elgin,Illinois
Request for Proposals
Executive Search Firm
The City of Elgin, Illinois (City) is seeking proposals from qualified executive search
firms, hereinafter referred to as the Consultant, to assist the City Manager and the Search
Committee in its efforts to select a Fire Chief.
The search firm must have extensive experience in recruitment of high level and
executive public sector positions. The proposing firm must demonstrate in its proposal
that they, and the principals assigned to the project, have successfully completed services
similar to those specified in the Scope of Work section of this RFP, to cities similar in
size and complexity to the City.
BACKGROUND
The City of Elgin, Illinois is approximately 38 miles northwest of downtown Chicago and
covers an area of approximately 37.28 square miles. The City is located in two counties,
Kane (80%) and Cook (20%), and has an estimated population of 102,239. Elgin is
rapidly expanding due to numerous annexations and population estimate for 2020 is
138,000. Elgin is a City Manager/Council form of government. The Fire Chief shall be
appointed by and shall report to the City Manager. Elgin has 6 fire stations with a 7th
currently under construction, with two more on deck in the next 5 years. The department
consists of 129 sworn and 3 civilian personnel. The Fire Department responded to over
10,000 emergency calls last year and is responsible for fire, EMS and other specialized
services.
Additional information about the City Of Elgin is available on our website at
www.cityofelgin.org
SCOPE OF WORK
The consultant shall provide the services, including but not limited to the following:
1. Assist the City Manager and the Search Committee in development of a
strategy for carrying out the recruitment, including outreach to encourage
applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.
2. Identify potential contacts and conduct personal outreach recruiting to include
posting the positions through national channels. Prepare and place
advertisements for the position in appropriate publications.
3. Review curriculum vitae and resumes for background and qualifications
followed by telephone interviews to clarify each applicant's experience and to
prepare a written summary of 10 to 15 candidates with the most promising
qualifications.
Page 1 of 4
EXHIBIT "A"
4. Evaluate candidates for serious consideration (five to six candidates) by
conducting in depth reference checks with individuals who are or have been in
a position to evaluate the candidate's performance on the job. Through these
references, ascertain the candidate's strength in criteria identified by a job
description prepared by the City as well as the consultant's interviews with
selected stakeholders.
5. Finalize a process with the City Manager and the Search Committee for
interviews and coordinate candidate's participation in interviews.
6. Debrief with the City Manager and the Search Committee following
interviews and identify additional candidates if necessary.
7. Verify selected candidates' educational background, and conduct criminal,
financial,media and civil litigation checks.
8. In the event politically sensitive or potentially embarrassing issues arise from
the candidate's background, conduct in-depth interviews with principal parties
to clarify the event and clearly present to the City Manager and the Search
Committee a synopsis of the event.
9. Notify rejected applicants.
10. Reinitiate a one-time additional executive search in accordance with the
specifications set forth above, at no fee to the City, if the successful candidate
leaves the employment of the City within one year of hire date.
If the consultant cannot provide a service as it is described in the RFP, but believes it
can offer equivalent or superior results by some other means, the consultant must
identify the services and state what it is offering as an alternative. The proposal
should describe the alternative thoroughly and should clearly state who the alternative
achieves equivalent or superior performance results.
SCHEDULE
The following schedule shall be adhered to during the search selection process.
July 23, 2007 Release of Request for Proposals
August 10, 2007 Proposal responses due to the City of Elgin
August 15, 2007 Interviews with selected firm(s)
August 22, 2007 Contract Award recommendation to City Council
September 12, 2007 Council Contract Award
Page 2 of 4
FORMAT AND CONTENTS OF THE PROPOSAL
The following information shall be included with the consultant's proposal:
Letter of Transmittal
The introduction of the proposal must include a letter of transmittal signed by an
individual authorized to bind the consultant contractually. The letter must include the
name of the individual(s) authorized to negotiate and sign a contract on the
consultant's behalf and the name, title and telephone number of the individual(s) who
can supply additional information.
Proposal Part 1: Scope of Service
This section must contain a detailed description of the proposed method and
approach, the services to be provided by the consultant, the sequencing and
scheduling of those services, and information on project staffing and management.
This section must include:
a. A statement of the consultant's understanding of the services required by the RFP.
b. The names, position titles and resumes of all staff who will be assigned to work
on this project.
c. A description of any comparable services performed by the Consultant during the
last five years. In particular, the consultant should include any experience with
public safety placements in municipalities similar in size and complexity to that of
Elgin.
d. A minimum of three (3) references, including complete addresses and telephone
numbers of each reference as well as the name, title and telephone of a contact
individual.
e. A schedule which includes dates for fire chief application deadline; applicant
summaries to the City; telephone interviews; personal interviews; and background
investigations.
f. An example of a recruitment advertisement or brochure for a municipal client.
Proposal Part 2: Cost
Consultants shall submit a separately bound and packaged firm fixed price proposal,
along with a proposed schedule of payments for the services requested in the scope of
work. Please provide the hourly rates of all staff to be assigned to the project as well
as the number of hours for each person.
Please provide any other pricing/cost data necessary to carry out the project.
Page 3 of 4
EVALUATION CRITERIA
The contract shall be awarded to the firm who submits a proposal that, in the
judgment of the City of Elgin, is best able to fulfill the requirements of this RFP.
Criteria include experience assisting mid-size cities with recruiting and hiring key
public safety positions, references, staff experience, interview(if any) and price.
GENERAL INFORMATION
An original non-price proposal must be delivered, along with three additional copies
in a sealed package, plainly marked "Proposal for Executive Search Services (Non-
price)" and an original price proposal along with three additional copies in a sealed
package, plainly marked "Price Proposal for Executive Search Services" and
addressed to Gail Cohen, Human Resources Director, City of Elgin, 150 Dexter
Court, Elgin Illinois, 60120 by 5:00 pm, Friday, August 10, 2007.
Consultants with any questions may contact Gail Cohen, Human Resources Director,
at 847-931-5607, email: cohen_g@cityofelgin.org
Page 4 of 4
CHICAGO
MFtTHE PAR GROUP 100 North Waukegan Road,Suite 211
Public Management Lake Bluff,Illinois 60044-1694
TEL 847/234-0005
Consultants, LLC
FAX 847/234-8309
www.pargroupltd.com
Celebrating Over 30 Years Service
to a National Clientele
August 8,2007
Ms.Gail Cohen
Human Resources Director
City of Elgin
150 Dexter Court
Elgin,IL 60120
Dear Ms.Cohen:
We are pleased to respond to your request for our firm to propose how we can assist the City of
Elgin in the successful recruitment, screening, interviewing and selection of Candidates from which the
City Manager may appoint a Fire Chief.
It is our understanding that the City is requesting the services of a qualified executive search firm to
assist in the comprehensive recruitment activities associated with identifying and screening outstanding
Candidates. These activities are to include position analysis, advertising campaign, résumé review,
candidate screening,background investigations,interview process,and negotiation and follow-up.
Our firm is eminently qualified to undertake Elgin's Fire Chief recruitment. We were pioneers in
public management executive recruitment and have earned a top national reputation and respect for the
professional, impartial, sensitive, and thorough manner in which we carryout a recruitment. Our
integrity or abilities have never been questioned. We facilitate and assist the Cty Manager in his critical
responsibility of selecting a Fire Chief—we do not dictate; we provide objective and straightforward
advice and counsel towards his selection of the professional he feels best qualified to assume the duties
and responsibilities of Fire Chief.
Should you have questions or require additional information, please contact us. We would be
pleased to meet with City Officials to personally present our qualifications.
Respectfully submitted,
1idiL /14) ikk-W
•
Heidi Voorhees,President
The PAR Group,LLC
Assisting in the Achievement of Excellence in the Public Service Since 1972
PROPOSAL/SCOPE OF SERVICES
CITY OF ELGIN,ILLINOIS
FIRE CHIEF RECRUITMENT
It is our understanding that the City is requesting the services of a qualified executive search firm to
assist in the comprehensive recruitment activities associated with identifying and screening outstanding
Candidates. These activities are to include position analysis, advertising campaign, résumé review,
candidate screening,background investigations, interview process, and negotiation and follow-up.
The PAR Group consults exclusively in the public sector, serving the needs of local government
nationwide with corporate offices located in suburban Chicago.The PAR Group was founded by Paul A.
Reaume, a former City Manager who provided consulting search services to local governments
nationwide continuously for thirty years. Heidi J.Voorhees, also a former City Manager and associate of
Paul Reaume,is President of the firm.Ms.Voorhees is leading the firm forward in the same traditions of
excellence and integrity established by Paul Reaume in 1972.
Our Principals have over 240 years' cumulative operations and consulting experience in the field of
local government, and have conducted a large number and variety of local government and not-for-
profit recruitments for a national clientele. Clients have included local governments of under 5,000 to
over one million population, with budget responsibilities exceeding several billion dollars. The firm's
quality of work and sensitivity to Clients'needs and concerns are recognized hallmarks—our firm was a
pioneer in local government recruitment and is considered a leader in the public management consulting
field.We have never failed to recommend a group of qualified Candidates for Client consideration.
Experience
We have conducted executive recruitments throughout the United States and have successfully
completed more local government recruitments in the Midwest than any other firm(please see enclosed
Client List). We have worked successfully with a wide variety of elected and appointed Officials in local
government. In the past five years we have conducted Fire Chief recruitments for the municipalities of
Crystal Lake, Effingham, Homewood, Lake Forest, Roselle, and Wheaton, Illinois; DeKalb County,
Georgia; Midland, Michigan; Austin, Texas; Kenosha and Mequon, Wisconsin. We are currently
conducting Fire Chief recruitments for Pensacola, Florida; St. Charles, Illinois; Kettering and Sylvania
Township,Ohio.
Recruitments The PAR Group has conducted for communities of similar size as Elgin include
Evanston and Peoria, Illinois; Kenosha, Wisconsin; Abilene and Wichita Falls, Texas. Larger
municipalities include Kansas City,Missouri and Dallas,Texas.
In addition to our extensive experience in recruitment of public management professionals for local
governments, our firm has been sought out to assist related public interest associations in recruitment of
top staff,including the Executive Directors for the National League of Cities(NLC), National Association
of Counties (NACo), National Community Development Association (NCDA), International Institute of
Municipal Clerks (IIMC),International Association of Assessing Officers(IAAO),National Association of
Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO), American Public Works Association (APWA),
National Association of Regional Councils (NARC), National Forum for Black Public Administrators
(NFBPA),and the President of Public Technology,Inc.(PI'I).
We invite you to visit our web site at www.pargroupltd.com for additional information on The PAR
Group and its consulting staff.
References
Representatives of the following organizations can comment on the quality and professional level of
services offered by Principals of our firm:
City of Elgin,Illinois page 2
Client: City of Wheaton,Illinois
Placement: Fire Chief
Client Contact: Don Rose,City Manager
Address: 303 W.Wesley
Wheaton,IL 60189
Telephone: 630/260-2000
Client: City of Kenosha,Wisconsin
Placement: Fire Chief
Client Contact: Steve Stanczak,Director of Human Resources
Address: 625 52nd Street
Kenosha,WI 53140
Telephone: 262/653-4000
Client: City of Mequon,Wisconsin
Placements: Fire Chief
Director of Human Resources
Information Services Director
City Manager
Client Contact: Lee Szymborski,City Manager
Address: 11333 N. Cedarburg Road
Mequon,WI 53092
Telephone: 262/236-2940
Client: City of Lake Forest,Illinois
Placements: Fire Chief
Chief of Police
City Manager
Superintendent of Public Works
Director of Finance
Director of Senior Services
Director of Parks and Recreation
Client Contact: Robert Kiely,City Manager
Address: 220 E.Deerpath
Lake Forest,Illinois
Telephone: 847/234-2600
Tailored Search Process
Our executive search process is highly professional and personalized. We will assist Elgin Officials
from commencement to conclusion of the assignment, until a completely acceptable Candidate is
appointed to the position. We handle all of the administrative details of the entire recruitment process,so
City Officials can limit their involvement to the significant, decision-making aspects of the selection
process,thus minimizing interruption of attention to other on-going concerns and responsibilities.
Our initial effort in assisting the City of Elgin would be to develop a Recruitment Profile that sets
forth detailed qualifications for the Fire Chief position, reflecting both current and longer range
organizational expectations relating to the position. The Profile serves as a key instrument for recruiting
and screening Candidates in accordance with the unique needs identified as particularly desirable for
Elgin's Fire Chief position.
Our executive search process would be as follows,subject to mutually agreed upon modification:
1. Interview the City Manager, Department Heads, key Staff, and representative command and
rank and file members of the Fire Department, all toward achieving clarity and consensus
concerning the specific nature of duties, responsibilities and expectations of the Fire Chief
position. Interview data will be used to prepare a Recruitment Profile for approval by the City
Manager(Sample Recruitment Profile enclosed).
City of Elgin,Illinois page 3
During our on-site interview activities we devote significant effort to become knowledgeable and
familiar with the municipal organization, community institutions and leadership, gain a sense of
the city as a place to live and work, understand intergovernmental activities/ relationships, take
note of cultural and socioeconomic diversity, and other efforts, all to clearly understand and be
able to straightforwardly present prospective Candidates (and their families) with information
having an important bearing on their decision to consider the Elgin position.
If desired, we shall be pleased to conduct focus group sessions, comDrised of community
leadership and citizenry, in an expanded effort to determine input anc_ feedback from such
persons for inclusion in the draft Profile prepared for City Manager review, amendment, and
ultimate approval;this service/assistance would be provided for an additional fee.
2. Conduct an intensive independent professional search and recruitment effort, utilizing an
extensive local,regional and national contact network,seeking out qualified Candidates who may
not otherwise have an interest in your recruitment.
3. Place announcements in appropriate professional publications and on the internet to provide
maximum exposure of the position's career opportunity and to ensure an open recruitment
process.
4. Process all applications received from recruitment and announcement efforts, including timely
acknowledgments of receipt of application and status of recruitment information to all
Applicants, on behalf of the City.
5. Screen all applications received, matching all Applicants' credentials with the specific criteria
qualifications stated in the Recruitment Profile.
6. Interview prospective Final Candidates and make background inquiries and reference checks
with current employer and, where appropriate, most recent prior employer, and verify claimed
educational achievement.
7. Present a written report to the City Manager on applications received for the position, including
résumés and background information on those individuals considered to be most qualified and
best suited for the position, recommending approximately 8 - 10 such persons for personal
interview consideration.
8. Facilitate the selection of Candidates to be invited for personal interview and appointment
consideration;we recommend that no fewer than five Candidates be interviewed.
9. Arrange for additional background inquiries of Candidates selected for interview, to include
criminal court,credit,and motor vehicle records checks and print media searches,as desired.
10. Provide,if desired,personality "type"profiles of the Finalist Candidates utilizing the recognized
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator® (MBTI®)Test and analysis.The MBTI results provide a means to
assist the City Manager in making distinctions and understanding differences of management
and personal style among Candidates.The MBTI has been employed by a wide variety of users
in business, government, and training services for 40 years as a recognized tool to assist
organizations to appreciate the differences of individuals and their approaches to work and
interaction. MBTI results are also used in organizations to help understand and adapt to
different management styles and approaches to work methods, assist in making the most of
human resources, and facilitate more effective communications with peers, employees, and
supervisors.
11. Prepare interview questions and procedure for use by the City Manager's Interview Panel,
developing a process which will ensure that the same questions are asked of each Candidate and
that each interview is thoroughly and consistently evaluated.
12. Coordinate arrangements for Candidates' travel to Elgin for interviews, be present during
interview sessions to facilitate effective discussion and deliberation toward the City's selection of
Oki_ I
City of Elgin,Illinois page 4
a Final Candidate, and also assist in employment negotiation between the Final Candidate and
City Officials,as desired.
13. Notify all Applicants of the final appointment action by the City Manager, including
professional background information on the successful Candidate.
Timing
We are prepared to undertake your assignment in a timely manner.The Recruitment Profile will be
submitted for review and approval promptly following our on-site interviews of Elgin Officials and Staff.
We would be in a position to recommend Candidates to the City Manager for personal interview
consideration within 60 days following approval of the Recruitment Profile. Personal interview of
Candidates could be conducted approximately ten days following the City Manager's selection of
Candidates for interview. Overall, the recruitment process—from the beginning to the date of
appointment of a Candidate—should take no more than 90 days. The enclosed timetable illustrates our
suggested schedule of recruitment activities.
Experienced Consulting Team
All services in connection with this assignment will be performed by individuals who possess
recognized municipal experience and broad executive selection judgment. Greg Ford, Vice President,
will be responsible for and directly involved in your assignment. Mr. Ford's biographical profile is
enclosed.
Satisfaction Policy
Our Client satisfaction policy provides that, should the appointed Fire Chief, at the request of City
Officials or the Chief's own determination, leave the employ of the City within the first 12 months of
appointment, we will, if desired, conduct another search for the cost of expenses and announcements
only. In addition, in accordance with the policy of our firm, as well as established ethics in the executive
search industry, in recognition of our Client relationship with the City of Elgin, we will not recruit
employees from your organization for other public management positions without your knowledge or
permission.
This letter of proposal,when approved and signed,shall constitute an Agreement between us and it
may not be modified except in writing by both parties. Our liability,if any, shall not be greater than the
amount paid to us for professional services rendered.
Elgin City Officials can be assured of responsive and personalized professional attention throughout
the Fire Chief recruitment assignment. We enthusiastically look forward to having the opportunity to
assist in this very important staffing responsibility.
Respectfully submitted,
It vY\ L
Heidi J.Voorhees,President
The PAR Group,LLC
ACCEPTED BY THE CITY OF ELGIN,ILLINOIS
BY:
Iii LE:
DATE:
THE PAR GROUP
Paul A.Reaume, Ltd.
CITY OF ELGIN, ILLINOIS
FIRE CHIEF
PROPOSED RECRUITMENT TIMETABLE
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Preparation of Preliminary Profile;On-Site
Interviews and orientation with City Officials,
Staff, and others; Approval of Recruitment Profile
Candidate Identification, Invitations and Professional
Announcements; Candidate Screen, Interview and
Evaluation by Consultant
Consultant Reports and Recommendation of
Qualified Candidates
Selection of Candidate Finalists,
Additional Background and Reference Checks, .....
Report Preparation and Presentation
First Round Interviews of Selected Finalist
Candidates by City Officials
Selection of Final Candidate, Negotiation of
Compensation and Employment Conditions, ....m.•
Present Offer, Acceptance and Appointment
N5THE PAR GROUP
I Public Management
a - Consultants, LLC
CONSULTANT BIOGRAPHICAL PROFILE
GREGORY F. FORD
Mr. Ford is a Vice President of The PAR Group, working on both executive search and
general management consulting assignments. Mr. Ford has thirty-six years of experience in
local government administration and public sector human resources, including service with the
City of Dearborn, Michigan, and Skokie and Arlington Heights, Illinois. He has been involved
in recruitment and selection of top management personnel in numerous jurisdictions.
In addition, he has conducted numerous management and supervisory training programs for
professional associations such as the International Personnel Management Association and the
American Public Works Association. He has also served as an adjunct faculty member at Harper
College and Oakton Community College.
Mr. Ford has extensive experience in developing administrative policies, labor negotiations, and
the administration of a wide variety of operating departments. He has had recent experience in
administering municipal staff and negotiating with developers in the redevelopment of an aging
central business district. He currently serves as Commissioner/Treasurer for the Northwest Water
Commission, and Past-President and Board of Directors of the Northeastern Illinois Public Safety
Training Academy.
Mr. Ford is a graduate of Wayne State University, majoring in Political Science, and has a Master's
degree in Public Administration from Wayne State University. His professional memberships have
included the International Personnel Management Association, International (and Illinois)City and
County Management Association, National (and Illinois) Public Employer Labor Relations
Association (Past-President), American Public Works Association (Chairman, National Committee
on Professional Certification), American Water Works Association, and the Chicago Metropolitan
Managers'Association.
Mr. Ford has been a frequent presenter before local, state, and international professional groups
and associations.
THE PAR GROUP
Paul A.Reaume, Ltd.
CHICAGO
THE PAR GROUP 100 North Waukegan Road, Suite 211
Public Management Lake Bluff, Illinois 60044-1694
Consultants, LLC TEL 847/234-0005
FAX 847/234-8309
www.pargroupltd.com
Celebrating Over 30 Years Service
to a National Clientele
PROPOSAL/FEES AND COSTS
CITY OF ELGIN,ILLINOIS
FIRE CHIEF RECRUITMENT
Our professional fee for conducting a comprehensive, successful, and professionally oriented
executive recruitment has been established at levels to be justifiable for public management recruitment
paid for by public taxing bodies, our exclusive Clientele. Our fee proposal for conducting Elgin's Fire
Chief recruitment would be:
• Professional fee $14,500
• Reimbursable expenses(consultant travel, $4,500
postage/shipping,telephone/fax, office
support services,printing/photocopy)
• Education verification and $125 per Finalist Candidate
court/credit/motor vehicle records searches
• Print media searches (Lexis-Nexis) $40 per Finalist Candidate
Optional services:
• Conduct of focus groups(see step 1 in proposal) $800 per day,per Consultant involved
• Myers-Briggs testing(see step 10 in proposal) $200 per Candidate
Professional announcements are generally billed to the City directly by publishers and are not
included in reimbursable expenses. Our Consultants will be pleased to discuss your budget for
professional announcements along with our recommendations.Candidate travel expenses for interviews
are not included in the above fee proposal. The professional fee is payable in three equal payments,
billed during the course of the recruitment, with the first payment for professional services due upon
acceptance of our proposal, the second statement billed following recommendation of Candidates, and
the final one-third billing upon completion of the recruitment assignment. Reimbursable expenses may
be billed on a monthly basis.
Assisting in the Achievement of Excellence in the Public Service Since 1972