We’re excited to welcome Matt Swett as the new Practice Director for Boston at The Forum Group. In this exciting new role, Matt will lead our accounting and finance recruitment initiatives across the region, playing a key part in boosting our presence in Massachusetts.

An Impressive Career Journey

Matt brings a wealth of experience and an excellent track record in staffing, specializing in accounting and finance roles. He began his career with Beacon Hill Staffing Group’s Perm Finance division which was consistently recognized as one of the company’s top-performing groups. From achieving early career milestones like the Rookie Club title within his first year—a feat unmatched by anyone in his group for over a decade—to becoming a leading recruiter, Matt embodies the grit, drive, and intuitive people skills essential for success. Matt excelled at BH, achieving the highest honor, Presidents Club, with over $400k in billing for three consecutive years before joining us. Matt’s expertise, determination, and passion make him an exceptional addition to our team.

Why The Forum Group?

When asked about joining our team, Matt shared he instantly resonated with the company’s values and long-term vision. “After meeting the leadership team, I knew this was the right company for me,” Matt explains. “I left a comfortable position because my values aligned with The Forum Group, and I could sense the genuine care they have for their employees, clients, and candidates alike. Here, we focus on building lasting, authentic relationships, and I’m truly excited for the future of our Boston office.”

Building The Forum Group’s Boston Presence

Matt’s strong performance record and insights are a natural fit for leading The Forum Group’s expansion into Massachusetts. He shares, “I look forward to building our presence in Boston, attracting talented recruiters along the way, and demonstrating our commitment to superior client service. We’ve built enduring client relationships as a veteran-owned firm with over 50 years of success in New York and Connecticut. I’m eager to bring that same dedication to the Boston market.”

Outside the Office

Outside of work, Matt resides in Andover, MA. An avid golfer during warmer months, he’s aiming for a single-digit handicap and enjoys playing ice hockey and skiing in the winter. Matt is also preparing for a major personal milestone—he and his wife are expecting their first child, a baby boy, in March 2025! “I’m thrilled to become a father and to make my son proud,” he shared.
Please join us in welcoming Matt Swett to The Forum Group! Connect with Matt on LinkedIn here.

The private equity (PE) industry is changing dramatically, including how firms approach talent acquisition and leadership effectiveness amidst longer hold periods. As PE firms strive to create sustained value within their operations over extended durations, new strategies and priorities are emerging.

Our team recently participated in Hunt Scanlon’s “PE Operating Partners Talent Forum: Designing a New Talent Playbook for Growth” Conferenceopens in a new window in New York. With over 350 PE professionals and executive search experts, we talked about the obstacles and strategies shaping today’s hiring challenges. Let’s explore the key takeaways from this conference together.

The Changing World of Private Equity

Pre-COVID vs. Post-COVID

Before the onset of COVID-19, private equity firms were thriving with abundant business opportunities. But the post-pandemic landscape shifted dramatically. The market tightened, and large takeovers are now less common. With rising interest rates, debt has become pricier, leaving PE firms with about $2 trillion in what we call dry powder (uninvested cash).

In response, the focus has shifted from mere financial engineering to innovative strategies such as consolidating multiple companies within the same industry through platform or roll-up deals. This strategy extends the holding period to roughly seven years–much longer than the usual four, aiming to maximize returns in this fiercely competitive market.

New Focus Areas: Culture and Talent

With longer investment periods and more competition, PE firms have now shifted their focus to company culture, talent, and leadership. Investors and management now agree that strong leadership is crucial for success. Without it, you simply won’t make it.

While traditionally, leadership and hiring focused on CEOs and CFOs, today’s spotlight on culture and talent is centered on the Chief Human Resource Officer (CHRO) and Chief Talent Officer (CTO). These roles are vital in the industry, and every private equity firm should have a human capital partner to support operational and portfolio leaders.

The Rise of Operating Partners

The longer investment horizon also increases the need and importance of a new role: long-term operating partners. These partners integrate operations and finances of merging companies. Plus, they manage human capital management and cultural alignment.

According to PwCopens in a new window, the operating partner’s role is crucial for driving value creation after an acquisition. They are now deeply involved in executing the original deal plan and ensuring operational enhancements last over the long investment period.

Hiring for PE Knowledge and Experience

What do PE firms seek in leadership and talent in this changing landscape? The world of private equity is vastly different from traditional corporations and small businesses, requiring leaders with specific experience and skills. PE firms seek individuals with industry know-how and experience in the fast-paced PE world. Candidates must often look for new opportunities once a company is sold, but the potential for ownership in a sale and the high-stakes environment can be very attractive.

Some important qualities for candidates in today’s PE hiring environment:

• Technical Skills: Mastery of industry details
• PE Experience: Understanding the unique demands and pace of the PE field
• Personal Traits: Resilience, drive, humility, and intelligence

Develop a Talent Playbook

A successful talent strategy in PE hinges on aligning value creation with talent management. The Talent Playbook, a key topic at the Hunt Scanlon conference, emphasizes an approach that revolves around plan, process, and people:

• Planning: Create a plan that aligns the firm’s value creation goals with its talent strategy.
• Process: Ensure critical people and processes are in place and aligned.
• People: Regularly assess skills, map out critical roles, and focus on HR.

A recent Harvard Business Review articleopens in a new window highlights the importance of developing a comprehensive talent strategy beyond traditional roles, incorporating leadership development, succession planning, and diverse skill sets to drive innovation and growth.

Partner with a Human Capital Expert

In the competitive private equity world, many PE firms are increasingly turning to specialized human capital experts to help identify and onboard top-tier leadership talent. Human capital firms, like The Forum Group, excel in pinpointing individuals who not only possess the requisite technical acumen but also embody the personal attributes crucial for thriving in this dynamic sector. With a deep understanding of the industry’s nuances, we provide invaluable guidance on addressing critical talent challenges, including succession planning and performance management, thereby enhancing organizational resilience and leadership stability.

Tips for Hiring in the PE World Today

• Prioritize Culture and Fit: Ensure candidates align with the firm’s values.
• Focus on Experience: Look for candidates with relevant industry experience and a track record in the PE environment.
• Invest in Succession Planning: Develop a robust succession plan to ensure continuity and leadership stability.
• Emphasize Personal Qualities: Seek out candidates with grit, humility, and adaptability – qualities essential for thriving in the PE world.
• Engage with Experts: Partner with firms like The Forum Group, which has a proven track record in recruiting top-tier talent for PE firms.

Navigating the challenges of PE hiring can be challenging. But if you highlight strong leadership and find top-notch candidates, your firm can rise to the top. It’s about delivering value to investors beyond just money. With the PE sector constantly changing and growing, smart hiring is critical to keeping your firm competitive and thriving in the long run.

Have questions? Reach outopens in a new window to one of our PE search firm experts. We are here to help

We are excited to welcome Marc Rentzer, who joined The Forum Group’s leadership team in May 2024 as Head of Talent Acquisition. With his strong experience in recruitment and talent management, Marc will fuel our company’s growth by attracting top talent to our specialty divisions and launching new ones nationwide.

A career built on excellence

Marc’s career in the recruitment industry is a testament to his versatility and adaptability. He embarked on his professional journey at Howard-Sloan Search’s retained search division in 2000, managing a full desk for a decade. His exceptional skills led him to TNS, part of WPP, where he spearheaded all recruiting efforts in North America. Marc then transitioned to Lucas Group, focusing on HR contingency search, before returning to Howard-Sloan Search. There, he significantly expanded the firm’s size by bringing on key recruiting and sales producers and establishing new divisions. Before his recruitment career, Marc explored other fields, working as a publishing account executive and chef in high-end NYC restaurants. He even had a stint at the iconic NYC nightclub CBGB during his college years, known for launching legendary bands like Blondie, The Talking Heads, and The Ramones.

A longstanding connection with The Forum Group

Marc’s connection with The Forum Group dates back two decades, when he crossed paths with Susan Lustig at an industry event. Over the years, Marc has highly admired The Forum Group recruiters for their professionalism, integrity, and warmth. He was particularly inspired by our founder, Frank Fusaro, and his adeptness in steering the firm through various industry challenges and changes.

A vision for growth

Marc’s response was filled with excitement and inspiration when asked about his decision to join The Forum Group. He sees it as a tremendous opportunity to work with a team he deeply respects, to propel the firm to new heights with the highest-quality recruiters and account managers our industry has to offer, and to stay true to the core values that he believes in.
Marc’s extensive experience in recruiting and building teams aligns perfectly with his new role. He emphasizes the importance of meaningful relationships and the daily grind of business development and recruiting. He aims to build partnerships within our team and attract top talent, contributing to the firm’s success.

Looking ahead

Marc is eager to contribute to The Forum Group’s growth and success. He looks forward to furthering his understanding of the company, its people, and its operations. His vision includes expanding our existing divisions, establishing new ones across the U.S., and doubling the firm’s size with the right people.

Get to know Marc

Outside of his professional life, Marc is an avid music enthusiast, playing guitar professionally in live bands since he was 17. He enjoys cooking, entertaining, and dining at various types of restaurants. Marc appreciates high culture and a dive bar’s vibrant atmosphere with punk rock on the jukebox. He loves traveling, beach days, camping, fishing, hiking, and even axe throwing. Marc spends much time with his family and friends and is proud of his son, Daniel, a talented guitar player.

Marc’s enthusiasm and readiness to take on this new role are palpable. His words, “I’M READY TO RUMBLE!” reflect his eagerness to lead and his confidence in the team’s ability to achieve great things together.

We are excited to see Marc’s impact on The Forum Group and look forward to achieving new heights together. Please join us in welcoming Marc Rentzer to the team! Connect with Marc on LinkedIn.

As a veteran-owned business, we proudly stand by those who courageously serve our nation. To mark The Forum’s Group 50th Anniversary in May 2023, we worked with an amazing organization, Tunnel to Towersopens in a new window – a Foundation totally dedicated to aiding severely wounded veterans, first responders, homeless Veterans, and a host of other charitable works. Our team committed to funding the construction of a Tunnel to Towers Smart Homeopens in a new window for a severely wounded Veteran.

In addition to supporting the other great works of the T to T Foundation, we have raised just under two million six hundred thousand dollars to construct a home for Retired Army Major Ivan Castroopens in a new window. We are privileged to share his remarkable story as a hero and incredible human being. Major Castro’s journey of courage and resilience shines as a beacon of hope for all those facing adversity.

Meet Major Ivan Castro: A True Inspiration of Commitment, Perseverance, and Courage

Major Ivan Castro’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. As a highly decorated officer in the U.S. Army, he embodied unwavering dedication and courage. With a “never quit” attitude, he spent 28 years in the Army, progressing from a Private to a Major, earning elite status as an Army Ranger, Special Forces, and a Green Beret.

His combat deployments came to a tragic end in 2006 on a rooftop in Iraq, which changed his life forever. Leading a sniper team as a First Lieutenant with the 82nd Airborne Division during Operation Iraqi Freedom, Ivan was severely injured in a mortar attack in Youssifiyah, Iraq. In addition to his injuries, the round claimed the lives of two comrades in his command. Near death, he was ultimately transported to a field hospital only to be awakened days later, permanently blinded.

It’s easy to give up when faced with tragedy, but Ivan did not. His never-quit attitude helped him endure the terrible trauma he suffered. His journey to recovery saw him defy the odds and, despite his injuries, fight for the right to continue his Army career. Securing special dispensation, he returned to active duty as a Special Forces soldier, becoming the sole blind soldier in his unit until his retirement ten years later. While his initial physical recovery lasted over a year and continues until today, it pales in comparison to the emotional battle with darkness that he faces daily.

Ivan’s remarkable story of overcoming tough times strikes a chord as a tale of hope and persistence. His strong message emphasizes the importance of resilience, demonstrating that in facing challenges, courage lights the way through dark moments of setbacks and failures.

Choosing not to let his injuries define him, he took on a remarkable journey of recovery and achievements. Not only has Ivan been awarded two Purple Heart awards, military honors, and credentials, but in the last fourteen years, he has done it all. Despite his total blindness, he has completed over eighty marathons, skied two hundred miles in extreme conditions to the South Pole with Prince Harry, scaled Mount Kilimanjaro, cycled across the US, trekked 500 miles of El Camino de Santiago, ran with the Bulls in Spain, conquered the Marathon des Sables desert race, and hiked the Pacific Crest Trail. He co-authored a book with NYT Bestselling Author Jim DeFelice called “Fighting Blindopens in a new window,” which is his incredible story of overcoming adversity.

Ivan has genuinely inspired many. He shares his story at different events and conferences, motivating and supporting others in conquering their challenges. Ivan’s journey shows how perseverance pays off and reminds us that we can do more than we think. His attitude toward facing challenges is a compelling inspiration for each of us.

Learn more about Major Castro.opens in a new window

A Smart Cause: The Smart Home Initiative

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation, honoring firefighter Stephen Silleropens in a new window, builds mortgage-free smart homes for our brave service members. These homes give independence back to veterans who’ve given so much for our country. Major Castro’s smart home will fit his needs, using top-notch technology to help him day-to-day and boost his quality of life. Each home is tailored to individual needs, with features like automated doors, roomy hallways, accessible showers, and adjustable cabinets. These upgrades help injured vets and first responders regain their independence.

Our Commitment

The Forum Group dedicates time and talent to honoring our military personnel’s sacrifices. We are thrilled to support Major Castro’s smart home and look forward to sharing more details as we break ground on the build later this year. This initiative is more than just a project for us; it is a way to give back to those who have given so much for our freedom and safety. Major Castro truly deserves this home, and we are honored to know and support him.

Join Us in Honoring our Veterans

Join us in this meaningful effort. By participating in the annual Tunnel to Towers runopens in a new window or supporting the Smart Home Programopens in a new window, you can help us honor Major Ivan Castro’s incredible bravery and that of many other veterans. Let’s unite to express our thanks and back those who’ve fought for our nation. Together, we can make a difference and pay tribute to the heroes who sacrificed so much for our country.

If you’d like to participate in our continued support or learn more about this amazing organization, please contact us.

In the executive search firm world, success goes beyond simply filling positions. It hinges on forging meaningful connections and delivering value during and between search engagements. From market insights to timely communication, every aspect of relationship-building matters. It’s a guiding principle The Forum Groupopens in a new window operates by, so when looking to bring a new leader on board, CEO Chris Fusaro knew Jim Minogueopens in a new window would be the right person to join as the new Chief Operating Officer.

Hailing from Long Island’s North Shore, Jim brings a wealth of experience and a strong client-centric approach to his new role. Having been a client of The Forum Group for nearly three decades, he understands the importance of trust, communication and reliability in this industry. His longstanding relationship with The Forum Group founder Frank Fusaroopens in a new window, spanning over 30 years, speaks volumes about his dedication to fostering meaningful connections.

Jim’s career journey, predominantly in Human Resources, has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of organizational dynamics and performance management. From his roots in technical HR operations to leadership roles in talent management and HR management, Jim has led HR functions in companies ranging from 300 to 20,000 employees. His most recent endeavors include significant contributions to streamlining operations and standardizing procedures at Mizuho Americas and various leadership roles at Guggenheim Partners including Global Head of Talent Acquisition.

At Mizuho, Jim led a broad HR function transformation with operations in the US, Canada, Brazil, Mexico and Chile. As Managing Director and Chief Human Resources Officer, Jim turned multiple legacy HR groups into a contemporary and fully integrated talent engagement organization. His ability to lead in a positive and forward-looking manner enabled the HR team to operate at peak efficiency despite the global pandemic.

What drew Jim to The Forum Group was the opportunity to leverage his expertise in HR, operations and financial performance and the firm’s commitment to community engagement. Beyond the boardrooms and balance sheets, Jim resonates deeply with The Forum Group’s ethos of giving back. Inspired by Frank and Chris’s leadership and the firm’s philanthropic endeavors, Jim is eager to merge Forum’s capabilities with his network of friends and colleagues’ business ventures.

In his new role as COO, Jim’s responsibilities span across introducing new relationships to the firm, enhancing existing partnerships and optimizing internal operations. With a keen eye for performance management and revenue generation, Jim will partner closely with Chris and firm leadership to elevate The Forum Group’s operational efficiency and profitability. His strategic approach and focus on individual productivity align seamlessly with the firm’s vision for growth and impact.

Outside of work, Jim finds joy in his family, community and the great outdoors. Married to his college sweetheart Mary Ellen, Jim cherishes moments spent with his family. Although he has traveled around the globe on business, his favorite place in the world is his backyard surrounded by his children and grandchildren.

His passion for fly fishing, hiking and golf help him strike a balance between work and leisure, and taking cues from Frank’s philosophy of giving back to the community, Jim spends a lot of time giving back.

Jim, who earned a BS in Management from St. John’s University, is a member of the Board of Advisors at the University’s Tobin School of Business. He also serves on the board of Catholic Charities of Brooklyn and Queens, and the Finance Council and Pension Committee of the Diocese of Brooklyn and Queens. He is a long-time member of the Financial Services Compensation Association. In 2021, he received an OnCon Award as a top 50 HR professional.

In Jim, The Forum Group gains a seasoned professional and a compassionate leader committed to making a difference. As he embarks on this new journey, Jim’s mission is clear: to improve operations, drive growth, and leave a lasting impact, all while staying true to his values of family, work, and giving back. With Jim at the helm, The Forum Group is ready to reach new heights, guided by expertise, integrity and community spirit.

In 1974, a determined young man with an unwavering work ethic and an indomitable spirit embarked on a groundbreaking business endeavor. Together with two partners, Frank Fusaro established The Forum Group — a career consulting firm that has since become a leading force in the recruiting industry.

There are many ways to describe Frank and his experience leading the company. But above all, he is grateful.

When reflecting on the upcoming 50th anniversary of The Forum Group, Frank says, “50 Years. It has been a true blessing to build this business and impact so many lives. I am immensely proud of the incredible careers that have flourished here, and I am profoundly grateful.”

Humble Beginnings to Monumental Achievements: The Power of Hard Work

Frank’s father passed away when he was a young baby, forcing his family to relocate to his grandmother’s apartment building. In that building and community, Frank was surrounded by a supportive network of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who instilled in him the essential principles and values he holds dear to this very day.

“We may not have had much monetary wealth,” Frank recalls, “but I had all the support I needed. We were a tight-knit community.”

After graduating from Brooklyn Prep High School at 17, he joined the United States Marine Corps, dedicating several years to serving his country. After completing his military service, he pursued higher education while working full-time, ultimately obtaining his Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license and landing a job with PricewaterhouseCoopers. However, when presented with the opportunity to start The Forum Group, Frank fearlessly dove in head-first.

“At the time, I may not have known much about recruiting,” Frank admits, “but I understood accounting, sales, and the value of hard work. So, I seized the opportunity. I took the chance.”

The Forum Group initially focused on accounting, forging relationships with top firms nationwide and regularly hosting informative lectures. Through tireless dedication and countless hours of hard work, success blossomed, and the rest is history.

50 Years of Heartfelt Leadership and Service

Frank credits his humble upbringing, the support of his family and community, and his experience in the Marine Corps – coupled with a touch of luck – as the foundation of his personal success. When it comes to the success of The Forum Group, he humbly acknowledges his team and the pivotal role relationships play.

“Relationships matter,” he emphasizes. “Employees and clients seek trust and genuine concern. Being a remarkable leader is everything. You must foster a culture of care for your people and communities. That is what I have shrived for.”

Indeed, Frank’s efforts are evident throughout the years. The Forum Group thrives on a remarkable culture, unwavering commitment to clients and enduring relationships. With the most tenured employee having been with the company for an astounding 47 years and many others boasting 25 to 30 years of dedicated service, The Forum Group defies the norms of today’s career world.

Frank’s dedication to giving back to his community is equally noteworthy. He has served and supported numerous philanthropic organizations, including The Columbus Foundation, Cooleys Foundation, and Tunnels to Towers – all driven by his deep conviction to honor Italian and veteran legacies.

In honor of The Forum Group’s upcoming 50th Anniversary in April 2024, the firm is partnering with the Tunnel to Towers Foundation to raise funds to construct a smart home for a severely wounded United States Veteran and their family. This initiative ensures they receive the critical care and assistance they truly deserve.

The Future of The Forum Group

Frank has skillfully guided The Forum Group through unforeseen challenges and remarkable opportunities throughout the last five decades as the world, business, and technology underwent incredible, massive transformations.

Today, The Forum Group boasts a dynamic team of exceptionally talented professionals – both full-time and contract employees. The firm has connected tens of thousands of exceptional candidates with numerous success stories to exciting career opportunities across diverse industries, from startups to Fortune 100 companies.

Frank’s son, Chris Fusaro, proudly serves today as CEO of The Forum Group, continuing to build upon the firm’s success. Frank offers a simple yet profound desire when asked about his aspirations for the company’s future.

The Forum Group is honored to support the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. Over the last year the Forum Group, a veteran owned firm, has raised money through our monthly ‘Jeans Day’ initiative. On Sunday September 24^th the Forum Group toured the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum and presented the Fallen Heroes Fund with a check of $4,000.

We would like to thank the entire Forum team and alumni that took part in this meaningful fundraising program. The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund serves United States military personnel wounded or injured in service to our nation and their families. Forum is proud to align with such a wonderful organization and their deeply meaningful cause.

Forum Staff members, families and loved ones were reminded of what true sacrifice, teamwork and commitment are all about throughout our Intrepid visit. We thank the heroic men and women that sacrifice so much for our safety and well-being.

You’re not completely sold that you’re on the right career path, but the idea of making a change is daunting. There are so many unknowns, and we all know the grass isn’t always greener on the other side. Plus, if you do decide to change course, you may have to take a step back to develop necessary skills.

The time and energy required to transition into the right career path may be valid concerns, but they shouldn’t stop you from pursuing a path you love. Several years ago, I went from working in finance to being on a human resources team—unconventional to say the least. The decision wasn’t easy. I knew that I would be unsatisfied if I stayed in finance, but I wasn’t 100% sure HR would be the right fit. After hours of conversations with friends, family, and people in my network and months of introspection, I finally worked up enough courage to make the leap. I haven’t looked back.

Before you make a switch of your own, ask yourself the following three questions.

Are You Developing a Competitive Advantage?

In The Start-up of You, authors Reid Hoffman and Ben Casnocha teach that we’re all entrepreneurs of our own careers. They argue that to become competitive in today’s global market, it’s critical to understand your assets (what you’re good at), your aspirations (what you want to do), and the market realities (what people will pay you for).

As you look at your work history, think of these three areas as puzzle pieces. Having only one or two isn’t enough. You need all three to develop a true competitive advantage.

You’ve likely heard the axiom, “Find a job you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” This may be true for some, but blindly following passion can lead to an unsustainable career. I’ve found Hoffman and Casnocha’s framework more practical. Know your assets and aspirations in light of the market realities—then pursue a path that maximizes all three.

How Often Do You Think About Work Outside of Work?

The importance of this question is best illustrated through a story. Henry Eyring, a former business professor at Stanford University, tells how he ended up choosing his path. His father, who was a renowned scientist and professor, hoped his son would follow in his footsteps. In Eyring’s words: “My father was [teaching physics] at a blackboard we kept in the basement…Suddenly he stopped. ‘Hal,’ he said, ‘we were working the same kind of problem a week ago. You don’t seem to understand it any better now than you did then. Haven’t you been working on it?’”

Eyring admitted he had not. His father then said: “When you walk down the street, when you’re in the shower, when you don’t have to be thinking about anything else, isn’t this what you think about?”

“When I told him no,” Eyring concludes, “my father paused…then said, ‘Hal, I think you’d better get out of physics. You ought to find something that you love so much that when you don’t have to think about anything, that’s what you think about.’”

I found this true in my life. When I was in finance, I rarely thought about work outside the office. Rather, I thought about people-related challenges my team faced and how I could improve the company culture. To be successful you don’t need to obsess about your job 24/7, but if you’re only thinking about your job during the hours of 9 to 5, it may be a sign you’re on the wrong path.

What Does Your Career Path Look Like 10 Years Down the Road?

Think of those in your company or industry who are more senior than you. Do you eventually want to be doing the type of work they’re doing?

This long-term view on your career is critical because many jobs change as you advance in your field. For example, junior investment bankers spend most of their time building financial models and client presentations, while senior bankers focus largely on sourcing deals and maintaining relationships. Even if you don’t love your current job, it may be a necessary step to develop skills that’ll help you get where you ultimately want to be.

If you don’t know what your current path looks like, schedule an informational interview with someone more experienced. These informal meetings are a great way to find out what you can expect in the future. Consider asking people what they like most about their job, the types of projects they work on, and what advice they’d give to someone in your shoes. I had a lot of informational interviews when I was in finance, and they’re what ultimately influenced me to take my career in another direction.

Determining whether to change industries is no small task, but asking yourself the three questions I’ve shared will help you make an informed decision. Are you developing a competitive advantage by maximizing your assets, your aspirations, and the market realities? How often do you think about work outside of the office? What does your career path look like in the future?

Your answers to these questions will help you understand whether you should double your efforts in your current job or start figuring out your next move.

Americans are increasingly using their mobile phones for so much more than calling and texting. Cell phone and tablet use has expanded to include everything from searching the internet, paying bills, playing and purchasing music, reading books, managing calendars, playing games and more. Statista.com reports that in 2014, 36 percent of smartphone and 45 percent of tablet users had purchased at least one app for their mobile device. According to industry figures, the number of mobile app buyers in the United States is projected to reach 85 million by 2019.

Because of this surge in the use of mobile devices and applications, companies are looking to hire specialists who can develop and program for mobile devices. Mobile Developers creates applications and solutions for mobile devices including smartphones, tablets and other handheld devices.  The demand for this type of job has continued to increase as businesses adjust to mobile strategies in their marketing and advertising efforts. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects about a 27 percent increase in employment growth for web developers (which includes mobile developers) by 2024. This growth is predicted as result of the rising popularity of mobile devices and ecommerce.

Job requirements for mobile development careers include a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering or a related field, as well as experience in software development and mobile application development, such as iOS or Android application development.  Some employers may also require candidates to have advanced certifications in areas such as advanced web development and in mobile application development. Employers are looking for strong candidates, who in addition to relevant education, also have substantial work experience in mobile development, as they may be developing applications that can potentially reach millions of users per day.

As people rely more and more on their mobile devices, the industry’s employment growth will remain strong. “The biggest shift in the industry is mobile technologies,” says Andrew Ruditser, a Lead Technology Coordinator at Maxburst Inc., a web development company on Long Island. “We have to make sure our sites don’t just look good on desktops, but also on androids and iPhones.”

If you are looking for a career as a mobile developer, consider contacting a professional and established recruiting firm such as The Forum Group. For over four decades The Forum Group has successfully placed thousands of individuals in meaningful and rewarding positions. Contact The Forum Group, an experienced staffing and recruiting company, to help you secure a career in mobile development.

Occupational therapy is a growing industry for careers today and it is expected to expand even further in years to come.  Historically, occupational therapists worked with injured, ill, or disabled patients to help these patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working.  However, as people live longer and remain more active later in life, occupational therapists are now needed more often to help senior citizens maintain their independence as well as regain movement and perform normal activities after an injury or stroke.  In addition, there is a growing need for occupational therapists to work with children who are afflicted with an autism spectrum disorder and help them to perform a variety of daily tasks as well as to improve their social skills.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) employment of occupational therapists is projected to grow 27 percent by 2024, which is a much faster rate than the average for all occupations. With an often flexible work schedule, competitive pay and diverse work environments including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, medical offices and in-home services, US News and World Report ranked occupational therapist as #17 on its list of 2016 Best Health Care Jobs.

Occupational therapists work with patients to build or restore their abilities to perform the daily tasks of life.  The role of an occupational therapist can vary greatly and the job may look very different depending on the age of the patient and the specific issues that they may be experiencing.  An occupational therapist can treat patients with mental, physical, emotional or developmental disabilities or injuries. “We help people to perform the everyday “occupations” of life, regardless of age, ability or disability,” says Samia Rafeedie, a Doctor and Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy at the University of Southern California.

Occupational therapists require at least a master’s degree in occupational therapy as well supervised fieldwork and clinical experience. In addition, all states require occupational therapists to be licensed and pass a national examination.

Occupational therapy will continue to be an important part of treatment for people with various illnesses, injuries and disabilities and it can be a very satisfying and rewarding career. Samia Rafeedie adds, “Occupational therapists enter patients’ lives at some of their most challenging moments – a catastrophic change or illness – and they get to fashion a positive future and provide hope. And that is priceless.”

For over four decades The Forum Group has successfully placed thousands of individuals in meaningful and rewarding positions. Contact The Forum Group, an experienced staffing and recruiting company, to help you secure a rewarding career in occupational therapy.