Technology & Innovation Case Study - Charity Auctions Today

Filling a Critical Leadership Role: How Y Scouts Helped Charity Auctions Today Find Their Ideal COO

Setting the Stage:

Charity Auctions Today, founded in 2007 by Tom Kelly, offers an easy-to-use online platform for nonprofits and organizations to host virtual and in-person fundraising auctions. With over 250,000 auctions hosted and more than $500 million raised for causes worldwide, the platform enables organizations to simplify their fundraising efforts while maximizing profits. As the company grew, Tom recognized the need for an experienced leader to manage and build his team. Initially seeking a CEO, after discussions with Y Scouts, Tom realized that hiring a COO would be a more strategic fit for his business​.

Challenge

Tom was facing the challenge of finding someone with the right experience to not only manage his team but also to execute on the company’s vision for growth. His experience with other search firms had been frustrating, as they typically provided candidates who were unemployed or didn’t align with the company’s goals. Tom needed someone who could contribute immediately and was passionate about the company’s mission.

Struggle

After attempting to work with other firms that only brought forward candidates actively seeking employment, Tom was concerned that he wouldn’t find someone who could truly align with Charity Auctions Today’s vision and goals. He needed a partner who could understand his business and bring in candidates who could see the potential of the company—even those not actively looking for new positions.

Turning Point

Y Scouts approached the search with a focus on presenting candidates who were not just actively seeking roles but those who could align with the vision and culture of Charity Auctions Today. We pitched the company’s growth potential to passive candidates, bringing them into Tom’s vision for the future. The entire process was hands-off for Tom, allowing him to focus on his business while we vetted candidates, presenting only those who would be a perfect fit for the role and the company’s goals.

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Resolution

Within weeks, Y Scouts presented a candidate who immediately impressed Tom with their understanding of the business and the opportunities it had for growth. By the second interview, the candidate had already identified 8 new revenue streams and potential areas for improvement. This candidate was so well-prepared and aligned with the company’s vision that Tom was confident they were the right fit. The process was seamless, and Tom appreciated the way we handled everything from pitching the opportunity to delivering well-vetted candidates.

“I couldn’t have asked for a better partner in this process. You did all the work, and I didn’t have to worry about a thing. You brought me candidates that weren’t even looking for jobs but were excited about our vision. I will never work with anyone else for our high-level positions.”

Tom Kelly
Founder and CEO of Charity Auctions Today

Final Thoughts

At Y Scouts, we don’t just recruit candidates; we bring in leaders who are aligned with the vision and culture of the companies we serve. Our approach with Charity Auctions Today allowed us to attract a candidate who wasn’t actively looking for a new role but quickly bought into Tom’s vision and made an immediate impact. For Tom, the process was hands-off and effortless, providing him with a strategic partner who could help him guide his company into its next phase of growth.

Let Us Help You Find the Right Leader for Your Company

Y Scouts has a proven track record of identifying leaders who not only meet the technical requirements but also align with the company’s mission and culture. If you’re facing a similar challenge, let us help you find the leader who can drive your company forward. Schedule a free consultation today.

Real People, Real Results

“The biggest benefit of partnering with Y Scouts is I always felt they were invested in our company's growth, not just placing a candidate. They wanted as much success for our company as I did.”
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Scott Terrell
CEO of Liberty Tax
“I had a hard time finding the right COO until I hired Y Scouts. They went so deep into understanding not just the values but exactly who I needed, and their process was completely systemized yet super personable.”
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Shanda Sumpter
CEO at HeartCore Business
“Y Scouts was able to sift through candidates, pre-interview them, and ensure they aligned with our values before presenting them to us. That was key in finding the right fit.”
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Brendon Sarracino
Managing Partner at Sargon
“The level of preparation Y Scouts put into the search process is unmatched. By the time we talked to candidates, they were the perfect fit for my client.”
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Jake Karger
Executive Coach
“I've never worked with a recruiter or search firm that invested so much time and energy into understanding our culture before finding candidates. That made all the difference.”
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TJ Blandford
CEO at Woodbine Manufacturing

Connecting Purpose-Driven Leaders to Companies That Share the Same Values

Traditional recruiting is broken, but Y Scouts has the solution. We specialize in purpose-driven executive recruiting, ensuring your company connects with leaders who are not only highly qualified but also deeply committed to your mission, vision, and values.