<p>In my experience with senior executive searches and cultural fit etc, it’s the colleagues and peers already on the ground that do the selecting of their peer. HR just shepherds the process, but those who have to work with the senior executive usu selects him or her.</p>
<p>Interesting point of view. Sometimes it’s thought that the group may not want someone who has superior skills or who may threaten their role or what they offer, and therefore a kind of lowest common denominator person in that scenario can be chosen. More often, as you state, the search focuses on whether the person has the skills necessary to be both a contributor but also work with other senior executives well. </p>
<p>I think it would be interesting in those schools looking for cultural fit if the students themselves became part of the interview and selection process.</p>
<p>It would be fun to think that interested students could have a say in picking other students they thought would contribute to their school and be a valued colleague and asset. I don’t think the student tourguides are actually giving direct feedback, and it would be interesting if eventually some of the schools added a student voice to the interview panel and round table selection process.</p>