GET TO KNOW YOUR MACDONALD SEARCH GROUP CALGARY SENIOR CONSULTANT - MICHAEL VAN OLM
Michael Van Olm is an experienced business development executive and leader. He’s worked for a number of global companies, spanning multiple industries, located all across Canada. His breadth of experience and depth of commitment to his work have proven to be incredible assets for MacDonald Search Group clients and candidates.
Get to know one of our outstanding team members and find out more about what makes Michael Van Olm an asset to our team and yours:
Where are you from, where are you now?
I was born and raised in Vancouver, graduated from Simon Fraser University and started my career at Pillsbury.
I took a position with Campbells in 2000 and made my first move to Calgary. I also spent about five years at SC Johnson before heading off to another of Canada’s amazing cities--Montreal--and a position at Roche.
In 2014 Calgary called me back with a position as the Head of the Chemical Drilling Fluids Division, and member of the executive leadership team, with Di-Corp. Since 2017, I’ve been taking all that experience and applying it to my work with MacDonald Search Group.
What do you love about working with MacDonald Search Group?
I’ve been with MSG for three years next month. The most outstanding part of working here is how the values and the work culture is completely aligned with how I think of the world.
I’ve worked with recruiters on the hiring side and fully believe that it’s the recruiter that shows the quality of a search group.
I thrive on helping clients find top-tier talent and take great satisfaction in helping exceptional candidates advance their career in positions that they love and in which they are extremely successful.
What are your specialty verticals?
While I’m proficient across industries and locations, my focus is on Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. I specialize in the following industries:
- Industrial
- Oil and Gas
- Technical
- Sales and Marketing
- B2B
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
No matter what you do, or how much pressure you’re under, hold integrity in the highest. What this means to me in my work is being as transparent as possible with where candidates are in the selection process. I strive to be honest, upfront, and clear on expectations.
Who is your role model and why?
My Father is my role model. He’s extremely hardworking with a disciplined work ethic. His great sense of humour is also something I admire. He balanced the seriousness of work with a lightness in his approach to life.
What is your greatest career achievement to date?
When I took the position as Head of Drilling and Fluids with Di-Corp, I made a huge transition from Pharmaceuticals to Oil and Gas. My ability to adapt across very different industries, positions, and sectors, while maintaining success in a leadership capacity is something I’m very proud of. This experience is something I draw on in my work with clients now.
What is your favourite way to spend your time?
When I’m not working, I’m with my family: My wife, three sons, a daughter, a Dachshund, and Husky/Pomeranian mix.
Get in touch with Michael to discuss open positions that require high-quality candidates. Reach him via email, phone, or LinkedIn.