Inside The Search: The Electric Spark That Started it All

Every once in a while, a search reminds us exactly why we do what we do.

When Purple Squirrel Advisors launched in 2015, one of our very first clients was a second-generation, family-owned electrical contracting business in Metro Detroit. The business was evolving, and they needed a Senior Project Manager/Estimator and a Controller.

These were not easy searches.

The business was in a tricky location for talent attraction, competing with larger employers and projects across the metro area. They needed professionals who weren’t just technically skilled, but also shared the company’s deeply held values of integrity, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

We still remember those first conversations with their leadership team. Their mission was clear: to deliver reliable electrical solutions while creating a company where employees genuinely enjoyed their work. It was the same spirit that inspired Purple Squirrel Advisors: to help growing companies find leaders who elevate not just performance, but culture.

After extensive searches, we placed great candidates in both roles, and nearly a decade later, both hires are still there.

That’s the kind of outcome every recruiter dreams of: a perfect alignment between a company’s vision and a candidate’s purpose.

The right hire can change the trajectory of a company.

We’re exploring more stories like this in our new series, Inside the Search: highlighting the impact behind the placements that shaped our journey and our clients’ growth. Follow along as we discuss the searches that have shaped Purple Squirrel Advisors.