THE SEARCHSMART DIFFERENCE
SearchSmart is built on a simple truth: the right leader changes everything.
For 20+ years, we’ve partnered with boards and CEOs to build high-performing teams across the nonprofit and renewable energy sectors. We don’t do quick fixes. We build powerhouse executive teams that create lasting change.
A proven search framework – applied with judgment, flexibility and care.
Leaders Who Impact
50%
Stay five or more years.
86%
Of our placements stay more
than two years
20
Years
We’ve tracked outcomes consistently for the last two decades, not to market short-term wins, but to hold ourselves accountable to long-term fit.
OUR SERVICES
Leadership challenges don’t come in one size. Neither should search. Whether it’s the corner office, a new team, or leadership transitions, our services are designed to meet your needs with transparency, flexibility, and strategic insight.
Executive Search
Rigorous, customized, and Principal led from start to finish.
Strategic Talent Advisory
Strategic, fractional guidance for organizations shaping their talent strategy. Partnering with leadership to define roles, assess capabilities, and ensure hiring decisions drive long-term impact.
Mid-Level Search Solutions
Flexible, transparent packages designed for budget-sensitive teams.
Career Transition Coaching
Thoughtful, grounded guidance for leaders navigating change.
MEET OUR CEO
SANDRA PAQUETTE
With 30 years of executive search experience across the nonprofit and private sectors, Sandra brings clarity, candor, and unwavering commitment to every search.
She is personally involved at every step — engaging boards, advising hiring committees, and guiding candidates with insight and integrity.
TRUSTED BY LEADERS ACROSS CANADA
From national nonprofits to trailblazing renewables, organizations trust us when the stakes are high. Our placements don’t just fit the role — they elevate it.
Working with Sandra and the SearchSmart team has been one of the best decisions of my career. Over seven years, they helped me build a high-performing Executive...
Sandra Paquette made me a true believer in the value of a skilled recruiter. Across multiple organizations, roles, and regions, she consistently delivered...
I've worked with Sandra multiple times, and she consistently delivers outstanding results. Most recently, she placed a Director of Marketing on my team—an essential...
Sandra was a true partner in our search. She understood the complexities of the Executive Director role and delivered a first-class hire within our timeline...
Sandra and her team are a pleasure to work with and bring deep insight to every search. Her strength lies in understanding fit—not just filling a role...
OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY & EQUITY
Diverse leadership builds stronger organizations — and lasting impact. We integrate DEI principles into every stage of recruitment, building broad, inclusive candidate pools and minimizing bias in decision-making.
SEARCHSMART INSIGHTS
Practical guidance, leadership trends, and conversations with the people shaping Canada’s social and environmental impact sectors.
Ready to build a leadership team that lasts?
We’d love to hear
what you’re working on.
Looking for a new role where you can make a difference?
