External Consultant for Presidential Search

2026-11-03

PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND Skagit Valley College , hereafter referred to as the “ College ” or “ Agency ,” is issuing this Request for Proposals ( RFP ) to solicit proposals from qualified executive search firms interested in assisting the College ’ s Board of Trustees and the Search Advisory Committee in the recruitment and selection of the next President of Skagit Valley College . The selected firm will partner with the Board of Trustees and the Search Advisory Committee to conduct a national search designed to attract a strong and diverse pool of highly qualified candidates with demonstrated leadership experience in community colleges or comparable higher education institutions . The College intends to award one professional services contract for the services described in this RFP . The presidential profile and position description will be developed internally by the College prior to the start of the contract and will be provided to the selected firm upon execution of the agreement . The selected firm will be expected to use this profile to guide its recruitment strategy and candidate outreach . The College seeks a search partner that will bring a strong national network of higher education leaders , experience conducting presidential searches for community colleges or regional public institutions , a proactive and comprehensive recruitment strategy , and a demonstrated ability to present a well - vetted and highly qualified candidate pool . OBJECTIVES AND SCOPE OF WORK The firm selected for this contract will work closely with the Board of Trustees and the Search Advisory Committee to support a successful presidential search process . The selected firm will be expected to provide the following services . Recruitment and Candidate Identification Using the presidential profile and qualifications established by the College , develop and implement a national recruitment strategy designed to attract a strong and diverse pool of candidates . Develop and manage a confidential nomination and prospect develop process designed to identify highly qualified leaders who may not otherwise apply for the position . This process should include outreach to national leadership networks , higher education associations , and other professional contacts to encourage nominations and confidential conversations with prospective candidates . Maintain regular communication with potential candidates and respond to inquiries from interested individuals throughout the search process . Applicant Screening and Vetting Develop and implement a comprehensive applicant screening process , including multiple stages of evaluation and vetting prior to candidate consideration by the College . Conduct a rigorous evaluation process with applicants to assess leadership experience , alignment with the presidential profile , and readiness to lead a community college . Perform preliminary reference checks and background verification prior to recommending candidates for further consideration . Candidate Preparation and Quality Assurance Ensure that candidates presented to the Search Advisory Committee and Board of Trustees are fully vetted , well prepared , and familiar with the mission , challenges , and opportunities of the College . Provide candidates with information and guidance necessary to prepare for interviews and campus engagement activities . Candidate Pool Development Present a qualified and competitive applicant pool aligned with the presidential profile and expectations established by the College . Provide the Search Advisory Committee with a summary analysis of the applicant pool , including candidate qualifications and strengths . Committee Support Assist the Search Advisory Committee with the initial screening process and the narrowing of the applicant pool to semifinalists and finalists .

Washington

2026-05-14