What I’ve Learned About Leading Search Committees - from SH&A President, Christopher S. Healy

Hi there! I'm Chris Healy, President of SH&A.

Over the past decade in higher education recruiting, I’ve seen firsthand what makes a search committee run smoothly, and what can cause things to fall apart. Serving as a search committee chair isn’t just about logistics or deadlines. It’s about creating a fair, thoughtful process where everyone’s voice is heard, and the best possible candidate rises to the top. If you’re stepping into this role, or just want some helpful insights, here are some practical steps that can make the experience smoother for you, the committee, and your institution.

1. Get Clear on What You’re Looking For
Every successful search I’ve supported started with everyone getting on the same page about the role. Taking time at the beginning to talk through the department’s needs, goals, and culture sets the whole committee up for success. When everyone understands not just the qualifications but the kind of person who will thrive in the role, the rest of the process falls into place much more smoothly.

2. Map Out the Process Early
A search without a roadmap quickly becomes stressful for everyone involved. Set a timeline with clear milestones: when the job will post, when applications will be reviewed, when interviews will happen. Also be transparent about how candidates will be evaluated. When people know what to expect, the process runs far more smoothly.

3. Build the Right Committee
The best committees bring a mix of perspectives and expertise, and people who are truly willing to engage. I always encourage chairs to choose members who not only represent different viewpoints but also understand the importance of fairness and inclusivity. A strong committee is one where everyone feels heard.

4. Set the Tone for Communication
From the first meeting, make sure roles, expectations, and timelines are clear. Then, keep the conversation flowing. Encourage members to share their thoughts openly, and step in if one voice starts to dominate. As chair, your job isn’t to make every decision yourself but to create a space where collaboration leads to consensus.

5. Keep Things Moving
Search committees can easily get bogged down. I’ve found that simple things like clear agendas and focused meetings make a huge difference. Keep the process on track, check in often, and deal with roadblocks as soon as they come up.

6. Evaluate Candidates Consistently
One thing that’s often helpful is a simple scoring rubric. It takes the guesswork out of evaluation and keeps bias in check. After each round of interviews, gather everyone’s feedback while it’s still fresh. Look beyond qualifications to consider how each candidate could add to your department’s culture. The best hires bring fresh ideas and perspectives that help the whole team thrive.

7. Balance Transparency and Confidentiality
People deserve to understand how decisions are made, but candidates also deserve privacy. Be clear with the committee about both expectations. It builds trust and keeps the process professional.

8. Handle Conflicts Head-On
Disagreements happen. When they do, address them quickly and respectfully. Your role is to keep things productive and help the group move toward consensus.

9. Stay Engaged Throughout
Chairs set the tone for the whole process. Be available for questions, communicate clearly with candidates about next steps, and make sure the committee feels supported from start to finish.

10. Guide the Final Decision
When it’s time to make the final choice, lead the discussion in a way that ensures every voice is heard. Once the committee lands on a candidate, help champion that decision and support the transition so things start off on the right foot.

At the end of the day, leading a search committee is about more than filling a position. It’s about bringing people together, building consensus, and finding the right person to help your institution thrive. If you can keep the process organized, stay open to different perspectives, and maintain a spirit of collaboration, you’ll not only run an effective search, you’ll also help shape the future of your organization in a meaningful and lasting way.

Need some support for your search? Send me an email today - I’d love to connect!

Take care,
Christopher S. Healy, President
Scott Healy & Associates