Aiken, South Carolina, United States
Long-term Chicago-based technology consultant to organizations in the SMB space - particularly those in the not-for-profit sector. If you want to call me an Evangelist for N-F-P organizations (that's "NGOs" for you out-of-the-USA folks), then I will gladly accept that label! We can serve our communities in two ways: First, by making direct contribution of our time, treasure and talents to those organizations that serve others... Second, by applying our talents and time to assist those same organizations by providing better infrastructure, better systems and better ideas, to leverage our talents and time to serve THOUSANDS of their constituents! It's ALL about leverage! Specialties: Technology infrastructure design. Aggressive purchasing and specification-setting to ensure that smaller organizations can enjoy the benefits of larger entities. Continued "evangelism" to my peer group of consultants to encourage them to take on not-for-profit client engagements, and provide REAL value to them.
Hood Consulting Group designed installed, and supported Local Area Computer Networks. Assisted many Chicago area not-for-profit organizations in modernizing their information technology infrastructure to deliver improved and efficient services to their clients. First systems integrator in Illinois to earn "Microsoft Small Business Specialist." Co-founder, Chicago SBS Users Group, a community of over 250 Microsoft-centric consultants. Recognized as 2005 "SBS Consultant of the Year" at SMB Nation, an international gathering of over 800 SMB consultants. Working closely with client staff and management, Hood Consulting Group assisted organizations in determining information technology needs and priorities within the framework of available budget and staff resources, designing and installing the most productive and cost-efficient network information systems, then training client staff for maximum technological self-sufficiency.
Started as Employee #11 in this high-tech startup technology company, that designed and manufactured high-precision electric robots for the automotive and electronics industry. Recruited and managed the hiring process for the next 57 employees, assisting department managers in re-structuring their organizations. Developed key employee programs, including comprehensive medical benefits.
Developed successful executive search practice, developing and excelling in local and regional assignments in the finance and accounting sectors.