Max Stubenvoll, Principal

Q&A with Max

1. Tell us about your career path here. How did you find yourself at Acertitude and why did you join the firm?

While studying chemistry at Imperial College London, I followed the common path of applying for spring weeks and summer internships at investment banks in London. After not securing any positions in the short term, I decided to take another year off between my second and third years of university to work at a startup called Shopwave.

This year turned out to be one of the most enlightening periods of my life, as I learned about the inner workings of a small company, the importance of culture and alignment, and most importantly, how to sell without making it obvious. This experience ignited my passion for business, leadership dynamics, and how to build. Consequently, I returned to university, switched my focus to management, and joined PwC in Strategy Consulting in London. Ironically enough, Managing Partner, Guy Barnes, leads partner hires for this same team today!

After two years with PwC, I realized I did not enjoy being a small cog in a big wheel. Open to interviews, I got a call to join the internal strategy team at Manchester United. The recruiter took me for a drink, and instead, suggested I interview with Skillcapital, an executive search firm. I had no idea what executive search was or what to expect. It ended up being the perfect fit for me, both in terms of the role and the industry. I fell in love with the people and my daily work, and over time, I developed a genuine passion for it.

After two years at Skillcapital and a lifetime in London, I decided to relocate to the company's USA branch for a change of scenery. A few years later, with my role in the search industry firmly established, Acertitude reached out, and I eagerly responded. The firm offered the career growth and diverse client base I had been looking for. Now, three and a half years later, I couldn't be happier.

2. Describe a day in your life. Favorite parts of your job?

I'm an early riser, so I try to hit the gym or at least get in a steam/ice pool session before starting work at 8AM. Since I'm not naturally organized, I need to plan my day and set clear goals to avoid getting sidetracked. In the evenings, I usually play tennis three times a week at 7PM or attend a dinner or event. Life in NYC is always bustling, and I thrive on constant activity, much like my job, where I'm always managing a variety of items each day.

The top three favorite parts of my job are 1) convincing a candidate to consider a role they initially weren't interested in at the start of a call, 2) the feeling when someone signs an offer letter, and 3) receiving that crucial call confirming a hire your client really needs.

3. What is special about working here?

I really enjoy working here because of the firm's entrepreneurial spirit. We're given the freedom to forge our own paths, move quickly, and get things done. Working closely with demanding funds to help solve some of their toughest problems is both challenging and fun.

The team is also fantastic. I love coming into work every day and collaborating with the broader firm, the C&I team, and especially the New York team. No matter how tough a search gets, the New York office is always full of smiles, making it all worthwhile!

4. How has Acertitude helped you grow and perform at your best?

Like I mentioned before, if you work hard and make the most of the large number of searches you are fed, you are given free rein to chart your own course. It's an entrepreneurial environment where no search or project is too big or small. You are encouraged to identify potential clients and bring them into the Acertitude family.

5. In what ways - big or small - do you live out our mission of unleashing human potential?

I have truly enjoyed traveling to various parts of the USA and witnessing how things are made and done - it's a real eye-opener. It's incredibly inspiring to help someone land their dream job in a location they've always wanted to live in, bringing joy to them and their family. It's also deeply fulfilling to convince someone that this is the right next step in their career and then see them thrive in that role.

6. What advice do you have for people looking to join Acertitude? What qualities do people need to be successful here?

If you're looking to start a career in executive search, Acertitude is the ideal place. The firm offers rapid career progression, endless opportunities, and exposure to unique situations that are rare to experience in your 20s.

To be successful here, you need to be tenacious, curious, and have a constant desire to win.

Max at a glance...