Industry expertise
Gladys Frijmersum, Imola's founder, comes from the world of financial services. During a successful career in insurance, she built up a wealth of professional expertise, product knowledge and management experience. And she is unrivalled in her ability to trace and assess professionals and those with high potential. She knows what questions to ask and how to "spar" effectively over vacant positions. And she is just as capable of coaching candidates about their personal career paths. Our clients, too, appreciate her as a critical and expert partner who can advise them efficiently at every level.

At home in financial services
Imola knows the market in which it operates, and keeps track of it at all times. We are totally familiar with current structures and cultures within all kinds of financial institutions. And we know many people within these institutions personally: managers, company officers and non-executive directors. An extensive and senior network of business contacts gives us a clear advantage when it comes to executive searches. Imola knows what is really going on and we work accordingly.

Proactive
From the very first contact, Imola works constructively with the customer. Throughout the process, we give something back. Rather than taking on assignments indiscriminately, we use our independent organisational and market knowledge to advise you actively about how best to fill your vacancies. This sometimes results in the initial vacancy being changed, internal business processes being improved or a more realistic executive search assignment being formulated.

The human touch
Imola treats people in the way they expect to be treated: with respect. Our methods are transparent and we agree upon clear deadlines with our clients. We give people the space they need and the attention they deserve. It is no wonder, then, that candidates soon learn to trust us and feel relaxed with our approach. For Imola, the key to success lies in good human relationships. With us, you are always assured a single point of contact and personal advice.

Dedicated and reliable
Imola works carefully. We want to know our client through and through. So that we only put forward candidates of calibre: people who more than match the job profile. We monitor the entire selection process and make sure that everything goes smoothly all the way to the appointment of your new colleague. We stay in regular contact with the HR department, checking that things are proceeding as agreed. Good management of the process is appreciated by all concerned. Finally, Imola informs the unsuccessful candidates personally, telling them why they were turned down and – if necessary – providing useful career tips for the future.

Exclusive
Imola only accepts assignments on the basis of total exclusivity. We believe that this sole-agency approach is the only right one for both client and candidate. Someone who is approached by several agencies for the same job gains a negative image of the company concerned. Nor is it of any help to them. Only complete exclusivity guarantees quality. We believe that if you deliver total dedication and quality, you can expect total confidence.