The Finney Search Group is an intentionally small and personable search firm with a broad, national network of relationship driven and student centered leaders.  We are proud of the quality of our candidates.  Each is thoroughly vetted.

Our daily inspiration is Reddy Finney who led Baltimore’s Gilman School for 24 years.  His life is measured by the lives he touched, the clarity of his calling, and his infectious joy working with his school community.  Each of our leadership candidates is measured by those timeless qualities.  Mr. Finney has the distinction of counting twelve of his students/colleagues becoming successful Heads of school.  Our partner, Bo Dixon, was Head of three schools over 30 years.  Similarly, ten of his colleagues became tenured, respected Heads.  Long-term leadership experience develops the intuitive ability to recognize authentic talent.

Three core values guide our work with independent schools.  First, we believe that the most outstanding, respected candidates are presently doing meaningful work in their respective communities.  Our intention is to match the candidate’s goals with the school’s strategic needs.  Second, the critical fundamental of each successful search begins with a comprehensive understanding of the school’s mission, culture, and its dreams for a sustainable future.  There must be alignment between the school’s identity and the core leadership qualities required.  Third, The Finney Group lives each day with the Search Committee as it collaborates in order to choose the right-fit generational leader.

The Finney Group's competitive advantage lies not in scale but in discernment - the ability to recognize mission - aligned leadership to serve a school over the long term.