Testimonials

"Ann, thanks to you and your team for helping us with our recent CEO search.  We needed a partner who took time to understand our industry and help us clarify our goals and unique objectives.  We also needed someone we could trust, someone with exceptional instincts, and someone who would work hard to locate the right candidates.  We know it takes great people to do great things...Ann, you and your team made that happen for us!
Thanks for coming to our rescue. Our company needed a real pro and you delivered as promised! The Carlsen Resources team is terrific!"

Gary Shorman, Director at National Cable Television Cooperative; President & CEO, Eagle Communications

"Carlsen Resources is one of the best, most progressive and efficient search organizations I've ever encountered. They know the industry better than any other consulting company. Ann Carlsen and her team take advantage of knowing the 'who's who' in the industry business."

Tony Vinciquerra, Former President, CEO, Fox Networks Group

"Carlsen Resources combines their deep knowledge of the business with exceptional client relations, from the beginning of the search until after the hiring has occurred. CRI works to understand the culture of a company. It's the cultural fit that will ultimately determine the long term success of a hiring and CRI gets it right. Carlsen Resources is a best practices company, striving to improve processes by listening to clients and implementing change."

Amy Tykeson, President and CEO, BendBroadband

"Carlsen is extraordinarily effective in researching, vetting and ultimately identifying the best candidates for critical executive positions. They are hands-on and committed to making sure the fit is right for both the individual and our company, regardless of the complexity of the search or the length of time that is required."

John Lansing, President, Scripps Networks

"Carlsen Resources recruited me for a public board of directors' position.  The thing that impressed me about them is their exceptional follow-up.  They were excellent in reaching out to me as a candidate to make sure I was well briefed on the opportunity and in advance of each meeting.  They also immediately followed up after every meeting.  They stayed engaged every step of the way.  In addition, everyone at the company with whom I interacted, from the CEO to the assistants, were very professional and pleasant.  It was a pleasure to deal with them. "

Kimberly Till, Former President & CEO, Harris Interactive Inc.

"The Carlsen team is smart, thorough and very easy to work with. Candidates are well-researched and always qualified for the positions for which they are recommended. The Carlsen team knows our company and works hard to ensure our diversity objectives and chemistry/culture considerations are reflected in the candidates they recommend to us."

Jeffrey S. DeMond, Former President, Bresnan Communications, Inc.

"For a long time I resisted using search firms for a number of reasons.  Either the companies I worked for didn't advocate using search as a practice or I was so time constrained that going through a "process" was not appealing.  This, of course, leads to a fair amount of trial and error and your hires are only as good as your network.  Further along in my career I did start to use search firms and this was another adventure as the quality of the search can cover a very broad spectrum depending upon a number of factors.
The first time I used Carlsen Resources I was taken aback by how thorough and comprehensive they were.  Whether it was the groundwork they laid to the vetting of candidates, I was always impressed with the degree of communication and follow-up that ensued. What is notable is how well Ann in particular understands the culture of a company and the style of the hiring manager.  As a result Ann is then able to give context and direct the appropriate communication that needs to happen between the candidates and company.  Above and beyond all else, Carlsen Resources always goes the extra mile on every aspect of the search.  Whether you are on the hiring side or on the candidate side, I have never experienced a more professional and buttoned-up process.  
Having used a number of search firms through the course of my career, I feel I am qualified to endorse Carlsen Resources as the "go to" firm for critical hires."   

Laureen Ong, President, Travel Channel

"Whether my need is a senior executive to run a business, or a specific functional requirement, Carlsen has literally always come through for me."

Jeff Shell, Chairman, NBCU International at NBC Universal, Inc.

"10 Distinctive Characteristics of the Carlsen Resources Experience: • Immediate development and adherence to timelines
• Listening and acting upon stated objectives regarding the ideal candidate profile
• Remarkably accessible
• Plethora of candidates presented through stellar relationships and knowledge of people that the Carlsen team brings to the search process
• Prompt and concise feedback
• Honest assessments provided across multiple facets of search, including: the marketplace's perception of our product and professionalism; our own reputation from the candidate's point of view; full, candid and unbiased disclosure of candidate's strengths and weaknesses
• Concerted and dedicated effort to match the culture with the candidate
• Complete willingness to shift mentality and priorities on the fly
• Follow-up throughout the interview process to ensure that all relevant issues are addressed
• Unparalleled professionalism"

Bill Abbott, President, CEO, Hallmark Channel

"They get it.  We had some very specific strategic requirements and they worked with us to focus on the right kind of candidates.  What was impressive is we could have hired almost everyone they put in front of us."

Ray Carballada, President, Shooters Inc.

"Carlsen's entire team is very accessible.  Their ability to navigate my needs as well as upper management's was incredibly helpful; moreover, they understand our corporate culture and spent a great deal of time and effort to find someone who would fit well within that culture.  They whittled down the list of candidates and accurately handicapped who was weaker and who was stronger, and had a good sense of why each candidate would work or not.  The profiles that they prepared were fantastic and very useful - they encapsulated the candidates well and helped set the stage for the initial hour-long conversations with each of them."

Harold Gronenthal, Senior Vice President/GM, Global & Program Acquisitions, Rainbow Media Holdings

"Carlsen Resources' reputation, in-depth knowledge of the cable and entertainment industries, relationships and commitment to professionalism greatly improve the effectiveness and integrity of the overall executive search process. Carlsen knows our company well and has been highly successful in identifying talented executives who fit within with our corporate culture."

Carolyn Dursi, Former Senior Vice President of Executive Recruiting, Cablevision

"We were recommended to Ann by a Board Member and worked with her on both top leadership and Board searches.  Ann and her team are very strong - Ann personally led the process very effectively and with great passion.  She and her team maintained an unyielding commitment to really trying to understand our (often challenging) requirements and sourcing exceptional candidates.  They were great ambassadors for the company, conveying a deep understanding of the company's strategy and culture.  She and her partner Christina were "right there" through to the completion of the search, providing an unusually high level of service and commitment.  They were also a great resource for candidate referrals for other positions.  It is a great pleasure to partner with Ann and her team."

Julie Knudson, Former Vice President, Human Resources, Digital Globe, Inc.

"I recently worked with Renee Hauch and Christina Burz as a candidate for a CFO search.  Based on the preparation materials and the personal interaction with Renee and Christina and their support, I have to say I do not remember a time when I learned as much about myself as I did during this search.  As I look back on the interview with the CEO and head of HR, I am confident that I performed the best I ever have over my 30 year career.  The head of HR commented that Carlsen really did their job. 
Not only did Renee and Christina know their client well, but they had very in-depth knowledge of the industry as well.  They are pleasant, intelligent, caring and really want the best for not only their client, but also for the candidate.  They made what could be a normally grueling experience into a very pleasant one and should the opportunity occur to use or recommend Carlsen, it would be a pleasure to be able to do so."

Mark Lebowitz, CFO, Liberation Entertainment, Inc.

”I have been nothing but pleased with my interaction with Carlsen Resources. Their attention to detail and ability to understand exactly what is needed in a search is second to none. From first interaction right through and beyond the placement of a candidate, Carlsen treats people on both sides of a search not like commodities but rather as individuals and they do everything a client could ask to deliver against objectives. Ann and Jeannine are a trusted resource and have been nothing but professional in every interaction. I highly recommend Carlsen Resources.”

Charlie Collier, President/General Manager, AMC Network

"Over the years, we have worked with Carlsen Resources to identify cable industry executives for senior positions in operations, programming and finance at Suddenlink. Ann, Renee, Jeanine and the rest of the team have always delivered the best candidates for us, and they have earned our trust and loyalty. We have great confidence that Carlsen Resources knows all of the exceptional candidates, is highly selective and rigorous in conducting searches, and is tuned in to our requirements and culture. These are all essential components of achieving a perfect fit, and that’s what we get with Carlsen Resources – every time!! This is a people business, and there is no more important decision we make than the selection of our talented managers and executives. We are glad to count Carlsen Resources as a partner in that process."

Mary E. Meduski, Executive Vice President and CFO, Suddenlink Communications

"I always find Ann and her staff to be expansive in thinking, responsive in execution and extremely thorough from start to finish. Carlsen's unique knowledge of the corporate cultures at media companies means they have a tremendous advantage in finding the candidate who will be the right fit."

Ed Carroll, President, Rainbow Entertainment Services

"Ann and her team at Carlsen Resources have an unmatched and in-depth knowledge of the industry and have withstood the test of time as they continually present 'top of the class' candidates. Carlsen Resources represents honesty, integrity and an expertise that is second to none in the business."

Kevin Hyman, Executive Vice President of Cable Operations, Bright House Networks

"Based on my recent experiences with Carlsen Resources, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them with the highest confidence.  My experience with Ann Carlsen and her colleagues is that they are consummate professionals.  They function with great discretion.  They are remarkably "plugged in" to the entertainment community, particularly the cable industry; they are extremely knowledgeable about the business as well as the needs of the clients who they represent.  Equally important, for those who they pursue as candidates for jobs, or represent for positions, Carlsen Resources provides those individual candidates with top-notch professional career advice and counsel.  They provide insight and guidance that enables candidates to be thoroughly prepared for job interviews, giving constructive and critical guidance that is relevant; they provide both insight and pertinent information to their clients about candidates, and to the job applicant, they give equally valuable information and insight regarding the position to be filled.  From my perspective, Carlsen Resources represents the "best in class"."

Margaret Loesch, CEO, Discovery/Hasbro

"Working with Terri Thompson was a real pleasure.  Terri approached the assignment in a very professional manner and ensured that the search ran smoothly.  I was particularly impressed by her in-depth knowledge of the industry and the strength of her relationships.  Overall, I was very pleased with the way the recruitment process worked out and we ended up with a superb hire."

Chris Carr, COO Channels, BBC Worldwide America

"Carlsen Resources is THE go to executive search firm in the media industry. Thorough, diligent, dedicated and passionate are just some of the adjectives that spring to mind when thinking about Team Carlsen. They offer experienced, expert and insightful consultation and guidance, while matching the industry's best talent with just the right opportunity."

Evan Shapiro, President, IFC & Sundance Channel

"Carlsen Resources brings incredible expertise, persistence and creativity to everything they do.  Terri Thompson did an amazing job with my most recent search, helping me set priorities and evaluate a pool of highly talented candidates.  Terri became an extension of my staff; she is flexible, smart and fun to work with.  Most importantly, Terri really listened to our needs and worked tirelessly to make sure we were 100% satisfied."

Sandy Wax, President and General Manager, PBS KIDS Sprout

"It was refreshing working with the Carlsen team in that they didn't just simply want to place me as a prospect or a 'candidate'.  I found that they took the time to understand what type of company, work environment and challenge I was looking for that could further shape my career.  In fact, I felt like they always had my best interest in mind through the courting, consideration and post acceptance phases.  They have turned out to be great partners in the career and company matching business and I would recommend them without reservation." 

Scott Bailey, COO, Synacor, Inc.

"Carlsen Resources helps their clients navigate through the recruiting process with ease. Their professional staff has a wide net of contacts, which gives clients an array of possibilities when looking to fill a position. They "crack open" the assignment and marry a "words on a page" job description to the other factors that matter--personality traits, skill set and an organization's larger business goals and objectives."

Jennifer Caserta, Executive Vice President & GM, Independent Film Channel

"Carlsen Resources does a tremendous job in preparing candidates and hiring executives for the recruitment process. Their in-depth knowledge of the industry and genuine care and understanding of their clients significantly enhances the recruitment outcome. I have a sincere appreciation for what the team at Carlsen brings to the recruitment process. The team is terrific to work with...smart, intuitive and a pleasure."

Karen Broach, Regional Vice President, Operations, Bakersfield, Birmingham, Detroit, Indianapolis, Bright House Networks

"Carlsen Resources weighs both the professional and personal needs of each placement equally.  Their priority is to find the right candidate but you never feel like their business interests supersede the interests of those they are trying to place.  Even after the placement is made there is continued follow-up to ensure the candidate is successful."

Friday Abernethy, Head, Affiliate Sales, TV Guide Network

"My experience being placed into my current position through Terri Thompson and Carlsen Resources was truly pleasant.  The high-level of professionalism and transparency in which Terri and her team handled my recruitment was refreshing and made me feel very comfortable throughout the process.  I was welcomed - even encouraged - to ask even the toughest of questions about the job opportunity so that no stone was left unturned and I could make a well-informed decision.  Even months after I started my new job, Terri continues to check in to see how I am doing, which proves to me how committed she is to her candidates and clients."

Les Eisner, Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Lifetime Entertainment Services

"Working with Carlsen Resources was a great experience. The team is highly professional and thorough in new media and emerging technologies. We've hired a talented executive with a great pedigree from major industry experience and learned more about what's happening in the marketplace through the process."

Patricia Gottesman, President & CEO at Crimson Hexagon; Former Executive Vice President, Digital Marketing & Commerce, Cablevision Systems Corporation

“I was recently placed in an executive position through a search conducted by Carlsen Resources. Having been through a few other searches in previous years with other firms I braced myself for the harsh reality of the process. Needless to say I was extremely pleased to have such a radically different experience.
The main difference in my experience at Carlsen was communication. I never felt out of the loop, and I never felt unprepared for what was coming in the interview process. Even though I knew I was one of many candidates to start, I always felt like someone was in my corner. As a result, I was able to create a plan that was practical and effective, and I had more effective interviews.
After the interviews, when you are most anxious, I always received a prompt and welcome follow up call to let me know how it went. This can make all the difference in the world in terms of feeling secure and confident in the process. I can't imagine anything more detrimental for all involved than feeling like you are going in blind without a sense of how you're being perceived, and what is important to stress in terms of your experience and thoughts on the position.
In this case, the outcome was successful, but even if it wasn't I am sure the applicants and the company engaging in the search were both better served by Carlsen's attention to detail and commitment to comprehensive communication throughout the process.”

Joel Stillerman, Senior Vice President, Original Programming, Production & Digital Content, AMC Network

"The Carlsen Team did an excellent job of preparing me as a candidate. Thorough detail of the requirements of the position were provided as well as an in depth view of those that would be conducting the interview so as to understand how to respond with focus on their area of interest. Probably the most critical strength of working with Carlsen was that they took the time to know me as a candidate, thus presenting me in a manner which clearly provided the company with reasons why I would be best suited for the position. I sincerely appreciate the Carlsen team working with me. Bright House is a great company and the position offers a fantastic opportunity to work with some of the best professionals in the industry."

Carlos del Castillo, Vice President/General Manager, Bright House Networks

"Carlsen Resources is a first class operation. They are 100% completely thorough in their searches, start to finish, outline exactly how the process works for both the candidate and employer, fully manage expectations and timelines, and have a deep understanding of many areas of the business – marketing, sales, research, technology, HR, PR and more. CRI is trust-worthy, respected, reliable and enthusiastic with a network of connections and contacts that are second to none. CRI is an asset to both the candidate (helps prep) and the employer (knows the right ‘fit’) and has wonderful follow-up (i.e. check in on candidates/employers months after a placement has been done). They are a fantastic team and totally professional."

Susanne McAvoy, Executive Vice President, Marketing, Hallmark Channel

"Finding the right talent and fit for any role requires understanding of the industry, the company and the candidate. Carlsen Resources was able to successfully deliver in all of these areas."

Charley Humbard, President and Founder, Gospel Music Channel

"Resources are what Carlsen is all about. They are the go to people to call upon not only for filling a specific job but also as a resource in general."

Dale Hopkins, Executive Vice President, CMO, Game Show Network

"To recommend Carlsen Resources and their team of experts is a no-brainer.  I have worked with Ann, Renee and Terri for many years and always find them responsive, honest and strategic.  I was recently placed in a senior level position by Renee.  Throughout the entire process, I knew Renee had my back while delicately balancing her commitment and task on behalf of their client.  And, when I'm not searching for a position, I still know I can get their time and advice, which is invaluable.  I highly recommend the work of Carlsen Resources."

Annie Howell, Executive Vice President, Communications & Media Relations at Hallmark Channel

"Renee Hauch establishes an effective, pleasant relationship right off the bat: she listens well and asks the right questions in order to get up to speed with the enterprise's needs quickly.  We established an easy, honest, clear communication from day 1, and her evaluation, recommendation and selection of candidates proved she has sharp insights.  I happily recommend Renee to colleagues looking for senior media management candidates."

Sarah Barnett, Executive Vice President, GM at Sundance Channel

"There were several elements about my Carlsen Resources experience that were extreme customer management positives for me:
Responsiveness: Carlsen kept me updated every step of the way.  As a conduit between me and the prospective employer, they really seemed to put themselves in MY personal position, always assuring that I remained informed.  They were pros at making sure they touched base prior to the start of a weekend to give the latest updates and anticipated what questions I might have.  No phone call or email EVER went unreturned.   Response was timely always and Carlsen was extremely proactive and courteous.
Preparation: Pre-interview prep and post-interview feedback sessions were features I did not expect to enjoy.  In this way, Carlsen Resources acted as coach and offered helpful, strategic resources I was able to arm myself with at every stage of the interview process.  Carlsen provided advice and tips and was extremely candid when questions were posed.
Negotiation: I appreciated that no stone was left unturned.  Carlsen WANTED to know what was important to me and presented MY side to the prospective employer.  They did more than offer a "yes" or a "no", they provided insight, context and perspective that helped guide me professionally and personally. "

Alex Dombronovich, Vice President, Marketing & Business Development, WICT

"The team at Carlsen was professional and thorough and we were very pleased with the Carlsen experience.  We appreciated the way they set up meetings to discuss the candidate, and how they took the time to understand the people who were hiring and the people the candidate would report to.  They were outstanding at matching the job specifications, culture and skill sets.  We have hired a well vetted and talented executive who is primed to make an impact on our group.  They listened to our needs and delivered in a very timely manner!"

Brad Fox, Former Executive Vice President, Sales & Affiliate Marketing, Comcast Networks
Todd Brown, Western Division Vice President, Affiliate Sales & Marketing, Comcast Networks

"Renee Hauch and the entire team at Carlsen Resources are reputable experts in the search business, and paired with a deep knowledge of the cable industry, they go the extra mile to understand their clients and candidates inside and out.  They made my recent placement a seamless, comfortable, and pleasurable process from beginning to end.  Every step of this proces was meticulously researched, and I fel they had my best interests in mind while preparing me to examine the opportunity from every angle."

Michael Lehrer, VP, Strategic Marketing, Sundance Channel

"I found the people at Carlsen to have their pulse on the direction of the entertainment business and to be very well connected within the industry. During the interview process, the team was very responsive to my needs and always available to take my calls. The prepping process was informative and thought provoking and I was surprised how quickly I received feedback. It was a great experience for me during a time of uncertainty and I couldn't have asked for a better partner."

Elizabeth Cullen, Vice President, Scheduling & Acquisitions, Lifetime Entertainment Services

"I had an amazing experience working with Terri Thompson.  Terri guided me through the entire recruitment process and helped me evaluate the best situation for me, personally.  She got to know me, my current situation and what I wanted to achieve in my next career move.  She provided excellent information leading up to meetings with my new employer and I approached every step of the process extremely prepared.  Terri sets the bar for executive recruiting."

Karin Gilford, Senior Vice President, Fancast & Online Entertainment, Comcast Interactive Media

"I really appreciate Terri Thompson's forthright and honest approach.  I truly felt like she had the best interest for me and my family at heart.  I guess that's why she has so many repeat clients on both sides--business and individuals."

Tom Alexander, Former Senior Vice President of Marketing, PBS Kids Sprout

"Working with Carlsen Resources was a wonderful experience.  Their professionalism and dedication in matching talent with opportunity is unparalleled."

Maria Brennan, President, CEO at WICT

"Carlsen Resources is one of the most professional search firms I have ever worked with.  Their in-depth knowledge of the industry and its key players combined with a unique understanding of our company and its culture is unparalleled.  The staff is organized, timely, persistent and efficient.  I can count on them to deliver the right solution at a cost effective price."

Clark Bunting, President, GM, Discovery Channel

"I worked with Renee Hauch as a candidate for a position with Comcast.  Based on the preparation materials and ongoing interaction and support with and from Renee, it truly was a meaningful experience.  I felt that I could make an informed decision and weigh all my options.  I appreciate how Renee and Carlsen Resources have made me feel throughout the process. Even after getting hired, I feel a great sense of support from them.  That is priceless!"

Sarwar Afsar, Director of Sales and Marketing, Western Region-Comcast

"I found Carlsen Resources honest, accurate and supportive in evaluating the opportunity at hand.  Never was I pressured or "sold" on the company that I was interviewing with or the opportunity that existed.  It really felt like they were trying to get the right fit for me as well as for the company."

John Heffron, Executive Vice President, Network & Digital Content Distribution

"I've been consistently impressed by the depth and breadth of Carlsen's knowledge and experience. What makes them unique is the quality of their relationships with both clients and candidates: they go far beyond resumes and job descriptions to understand the hiring company culture, the hiring manager's style, and whether a particular candidate will be a good fit. They make the process three-dimensional, and much more effective."

Erika Andersen, CEO Proteus International

"Carlsen Resources knows how to be a true partner. They make it their business to get to know our company, our people, and our needs, so they can thoughtfully and effectively steer us to the best candidates. We are grateful to the talented team at Carlsen Resources, as we would not be where we are today without their contributions!"

Nomi Bergman, President, Bright House Networks

"I have had nothing but positive experiences working with Carlsen Resources. If we receive a candidate from your firm we know they will be a quality person who is more than capable of performing at a high level."

Barry Rosenblum, Executive Vice President, Texas Region, Time Warner Cable

"Ann Carlsen is beloved by the entire cable industry. Carlsen Resources is regarded as one of the most plugged in and effective executive search firms."

Geraldine Laybourne, Former Chairman and CEO, Oxygen Media

"I have worked with Ann and Carlsen Resources for many years and have greatly benefited from their experience, contacts, and service. They have the highest standards and are rigorous in their assessment of strengths and weaknesses, and most importantly to me, they understand the importance of chemistry in matching executives to the right team, supervisor, and company culture."

Gavin Harvey, CEO, The Sportsman Channel