#Interim Management Agency

[bconsult]

Executive Search Firms: Finding the Right Talent

In today's competitive business landscape, securing top-tier talent is crucial for organizational success. Executive search firms, also known as headhunters, specialize in identifying and recruiting exceptional candidates for high-level positions. These firms leverage their extensive networks and industry expertise to fill critical roles efficiently and effectively.

The Role of Executive Search Firms

Executive search firms play a pivotal role in the talent acquisition process. They offer a range of services, including:

Candidate Identification: Leveraging their networks and industry knowledge to identify potential candidates.

Assessment and Evaluation: Conducting thorough assessments to evaluate candidates' qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

Client Representation: Representing clients' interests throughout the search process.

Negotiations: Assisting with salary negotiations and offer acceptance.

Onboarding Support: Providing guidance and support during the onboarding process.

Benefits of Using an Executive Search Firm

Access to a Wider Talent Pool: Executive search firms have access to a broader network of potential candidates, including passive candidates who may not be actively seeking new opportunities.

Expertise and Industry Knowledge: They possess deep knowledge of specific industries and can identify candidates with the right skills and experience.

Time and Resource Savings: Outsourcing the search process can save organizations time and resources.

Confidentiality: Executive search firms maintain strict confidentiality throughout the process.

Customized Approach: They tailor their services to meet the specific needs and requirements of each client.

Choosing the Right Executive Search Firm

When selecting an executive search firm, consider the following factors:

Industry Expertise: Look for a firm with experience in your industry or functional area.

Track Record: Evaluate the firm's success rate in filling similar roles.

Network: Assess the firm's access to a wide network of potential candidates.

Reputation: Check online reviews and testimonials to gauge the firm's reputation.

Communication and Collaboration: Effective communication and collaboration are essential for a successful partnership.

The Executive Search Process

A typical executive search process involves:

Client Briefing: The client outlines the role requirements, company culture, and desired candidate profile.

Candidate Identification and Sourcing: The firm conducts extensive research and networking to identify potential candidates.

Candidate Assessment: Candidates undergo rigorous assessments, including interviews, reference checks, and background checks.

Presentation of Candidates: A shortlist of qualified candidates is presented to the client.

Negotiations: The firm assists with salary negotiations and offer acceptance.

Onboarding Support: The firm may provide guidance during the onboarding process.

By partnering with a reputable executive search firm, organizations can streamline their talent acquisition process, attract top-tier talent, and achieve their strategic objectives.

Visit US - https://bconsult.io/executive-search-recruitment-agency/

Contact US - Phone - 0409090434

Mail id- contact@bconsult.io

Timings- 8AM-5PM

[tj-dragonblade]

🔍🔍 bloop

Thank you for making me put a few more words on this one! Follows on directly from the last snippet in the wip: search agency tag:

"And yet. It is my property, and I would have it back. Without paying for it again." "I feel for ya, buddy, but that ain't fair to me." The guy crosses his arms, squaring up to argue. Ordinarily Hob might feel inclined to step in, to mediate, but instinct stays him. This is not the item that Dream actually wants; he remembers very clearly Dream saying he was unconcerned with retrieving the gemstone and the 'headwear', that only the pouch truly mattered. So if this ruby is just a decoy, why insist on taking it back? He holds his tongue, lets Dream do whatever it is he's doing. Dream folds his arms, mirroring the proprieter. "Then let us find some compromise that is fair to us both," he says. "The woman who sold this to you. I have reason to believe she is in possession of other stolen goods of mine. I would like them back as well." "Sure you would," the guy says, nodding, his tone an obvious attempt to be sympathetic. "She was tryna sell a few things besides the gem; could be they were yours?" "A helmet, not unlike a gas mask in appearance, with a spine protruding from the front?" "Yeah, she had that. Almost bought it, what with the weird magical energy comin' off it, but I couldn't imagine actually unloading it to anyone and I didn't want it stuck in my hoard. Didn't feel right." "A wise decision," Dream agrees, and Hob doesn't miss the look that flashes over the dragon's face, a look that says he's not sure what kind of bullet he dodged by rejecting that sale and he's glad enough to never find out as Dream continues. "The other item is a small pouch full of enchanted sand." "She did have a pouch she tried to sell me; couldn't neither of us get it open, though, so don't know what was actually in it. Wasn't buyin' it unknown." "Do you know where she might have gone next to try fencing her goods?" Dream asks it with a tired note in his voice, a weary and defeated cast to his expression, and the dragon's whole demeanor softens just a little. "There's a lot of possibilities, yeah. I could maybe come up with a list, but—" He shrugs, seeming almost genuinely apologetic. "Then let me propose a trade," Dream says, unfolding his arms and placing both hands on the glass countertop. "Tell us everything you can about this woman—what she looks like, where she may have gone next, anywhere that would make a likely stop for selling stolen magical items. And I will relinquish my claim to the stone, withdraw my personal seal from it." "That's all you want?" The dragon sounds wary, like it's too good to be true. Hob thinks, given the size of that stone, that it probably is. But he's trusting Dream. Dream offers a wan smile. "There is greater value to me in retrieving my other property, even if it means the loss of this piece. You have already paid a great sum for it. Tell me anything you can of the one who sold it to you, of where she could feasibly attempt sales, and will let you keep what you have bought in gratitude. If I catch up to her, I can take the money from her in recompense." "Alright, okay. You got yourself a deal, my friend." The dragon holds out his hand to shake.

This needs some refinement yet but progress is progress.

[1stexecutive]

Healthcare Recruitment Agency

A healthcare recruitment agency specialises in connecting healthcare organisations with top-tier talent through expert recruiting strategies. Whether you're looking for specialised healthcare recruiting or executive search services, these agencies are dedicated to finding the right professionals to meet your organisation's unique needs. They streamline the recruiting process, focusing on executive recruiting to ensure that leadership positions are filled with highly qualified candidates. From frontline healthcare roles to senior-level executives, healthcare recruitment agency play a vital role in maintaining the quality and efficiency of the healthcare system.

[runwaysecretsaus]

Unlocking Talent: The Importance of Specialist Recruitment Agencies.

In a competitive job market, finding the right talent for specialized roles can be a daunting task for many organizations. This is where a specialist recruitment agency comes into play, offering targeted expertise and resources to streamline the hiring process. In this blog post, we will explore the unique advantages of using a specialist recruitment agency, how they operate, and tips for selecting the right one for your needs.

1. What is a Specialist Recruitment Agency?

Definition and Focus

A specialist recruitment agency focuses on specific industries or job functions, providing in-depth knowledge and expertise in those areas. Unlike generalist agencies that cover a broad range of positions, specialist agencies concentrate on niche markets, such as technology, healthcare, finance, or engineering. This specialization allows them to understand the unique demands and trends within those sectors, making them invaluable partners for businesses seeking specialized talent.

The Value of Industry Expertise

By working with a specialist recruitment agency, organizations gain access to recruiters who possess a deep understanding of their industry. These recruiters are familiar with the skills and qualifications that are most relevant to the roles they are filling, as well as the current market trends and candidate expectations. This expertise translates into more effective candidate sourcing, assessment, and placement.

2. Benefits of Using a Specialist Recruitment Agency

Targeted Talent Sourcing

One of the most significant advantages of partnering with a specialist recruitment agency is their ability to identify and attract top talent in specific fields. These agencies have established networks and relationships within their niche markets, enabling them to tap into passive candidates who may not be actively seeking new opportunities but are open to the right offer. This targeted approach ensures that businesses have access to a pool of qualified candidates who meet their specific requirements.

Streamlined Recruitment Process

The recruitment process can be time-consuming and resource-intensive, especially for specialized roles that require specific skills and experience. Specialist recruitment agencies streamline this process by handling various aspects of recruitment, including job advertising, candidate sourcing, screening, and interviewing. By outsourcing these tasks, organizations can save valuable time and focus on their core operations while ensuring they find the right talent.

Reduced Hiring Risks

Hiring the wrong candidate can be costly for organizations, both financially and in terms of team dynamics. Specialist recruitment agencies implement rigorous screening and assessment processes to ensure that only the most suitable candidates are presented to employers. This thorough vetting reduces the risk of bad hires and enhances the overall quality of the recruitment process.

3. How Specialist Recruitment Agencies Operate

Understanding Client Needs

The process typically begins with an in-depth consultation between the agency and the client. During this initial meeting, the recruitment agency will gather detailed information about the role, including specific skills, qualifications, and cultural fit. Understanding the client’s needs is crucial for developing an effective recruitment strategy.

Sourcing Candidates

Once the agency has a clear understanding of the position, they begin sourcing candidates through various channels. This may include leveraging their existing network, searching job boards, and utilizing social media platforms. Their specialization allows them to reach candidates who may not be actively looking but are ideal fits for the roles they need to fill.

Screening and Placement

After identifying potential candidates, specialist recruitment agencies conduct thorough screening processes, including interviews and reference checks. They present a shortlist of qualified candidates to the client, along with insights and recommendations based on their assessments. This targeted approach ensures that employers can make informed hiring decisions quickly.

4. Choosing the Right Specialist Recruitment Agency

Assessing Industry Expertise

When selecting a specialist recruitment agency, it’s essential to consider their expertise within your specific industry. Look for agencies with a proven track record of successful placements in your sector. This expertise will ensure they understand the nuances of your business and can provide candidates with the right skills and experience.

Reviewing Client Testimonials

Researching client testimonials and case studies can provide valuable insights into the agency’s effectiveness. Look for reviews that highlight the agency’s responsiveness, professionalism, and success in filling specialized roles. Positive feedback from previous clients is a strong indicator of an agency’s reliability and performance.

Evaluating Communication and Support

Effective communication is crucial for a successful partnership with a specialist recruitment agency. Ensure that the agency you choose is responsive, transparent, and willing to collaborate closely with you throughout the recruitment process. A strong working relationship will lead to better outcomes and a more efficient hiring experience.

5. Conclusion

In conclusion, a specialist recruitment agency offers significant advantages for organizations seeking to fill specialized roles. With their targeted talent sourcing, industry expertise, and streamlined processes, these agencies can help businesses save time, reduce hiring risks, and secure top talent. When choosing a specialist recruitment agency, consider their industry expertise, client testimonials, and communication practices. By partnering with the right agency, you can enhance your recruitment efforts and build a strong team that drives your business forward. Embrace the benefits of specialized recruitment and unlock the potential of your workforce.

Visit US - https://bconsult.io/

Contact US - Phone - 0409090434

Mail id- contact@bconsult.io

Timings- 8AM-5PM

[dixkens]

2024 007 Fest Intro Post

Hi, I'm Liz-the-interim-HR-lead.

Station Pacific's HR manager quit abruptly a couple weeks back and I was the only person available from my temp agency with a security clearance.

I've spent the last several days trying to figure out whether anyone at Station Pacific has done any of their mandatory training or HR paperwork for the last 18 months. If they have, it certainly isn't recorded anywhere on the network that I can access. (Ugh, the SharePoint site. We won't talk about that.)

Maybe there's a paper record of it, but you can see the piles on my desk. (Don't ask about the filing cabinets behind me, we won't talk about those either.)

I got in late this morning because I had to pick up more hanging folders (for the third time!) to continue the battle against the filing cabinets.

It's very quiet.

--

Hi! dixkens here, or hypatia on AO3. Happy fest!

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Matt Shuham at HuffPost:

A memo from the Trump administration’s top human resources official Monday laid out expansive descriptions of workers who could be stripped of civil service protections this year. The memo concerns a broad new category of federal workers that could be removed from the so-called “competitive service” and exempted from protections against “adverse actions” like being fired or suspended. These employees would be eligible to be transferred into “Schedule Policy/Career,” which was previously known as “Schedule F.” According to an executive order President Donald Trump issued in 2020 — and reissued, with some changes, after taking office last week — this new “schedule” of workers will include people in “policy-influencing positions,” defined as “positions of a confidential, policy-determining, policy-making, or policy-advocating character.” And according to an interim guidance memo sent Monday by Charles Ezell, the acting director of the Office of Personnel Management, the Trump administration thinks this description could fit a whole lot of government workers. In a bulleted list, Ezell wrote that agencies should consider “rescheduling” positions involved in, among other things, “directing the work of an organizational unit,” “being held accountable for the success of one or more specific programs or projects,” “substantive participation and discretionary authority in agency grantmaking,” including “evaluation of grant applications,” and “publicly advocating for the policies of the agency or the administration, including before the news media or on social media.”

Only a few thousand government employees — political appointees — typically leave their jobs when a new administration comes in. They are far outnumbered by those in the competitive service, who are hired based on merit and have strong employment protections. The broad descriptions in Ezell’s memo could make tens of thousands of career, nonpolitical employees — such as project managers, analysts and clerical workers — eligible to lose those protections, leaving their futures in the hands of their politically appointed superiors.

[...] Trump’s new executive order goes further than the one he issued in 2020 by stating that jobs eligible to be rescheduled include any involving “duties that the Director otherwise indicates may be appropriate for inclusion in Schedule Policy/Career.” This line, which Ezell mentioned in his memo, expands the Trump administration’s authority to reclassify workers. The executive order and memo both contain language asserting that civil service protections won’t be stripped based on individual workers’ political beliefs. But the memo says federal employees are required “to faithfully implement administration policies to the best of their ability,” and the new executive order requires they carry out their work consistent with “the vesting of executive authority solely in the President.”

[...] Trump’s original “Schedule F” order was issued in October 2020 and therefore never fully put into effect. But before Trump left office, a few agencies did put together lists of positions they thought were eligible to be stripped of civil service protections. Among them, according to public records obtained by the National Treasury Employees Union, were IT specialists, human resource specialists and office managers, in addition to policy analysts, economists and legal roles. Notably, in addition to revoking Trump’s 2020 “Schedule F” order, Joe Biden’s administration also went through a formal rule-making process, completed in 2024, to codify existing civil service protections and put up barriers to future presidents attempting to copy Trump’s order. Now back in office, Trump appears intent on simply bulldozing through that 2024 Biden rule. Not only has an OPM press release for it been erased, but Ezell’s memo also states that Trump used his executive order to simply “directly nullify these regulations” where they stemmed from presidential authority.

Trump’s war on civil service in action: Schedule F is back, and it’s ramped up.

See Also:

HuffPost: Trump's Smear Campaign Against the Federal Workforce

[brumeraven]

🪫: On Fates || chronic illness, decay, exhaustion, depression, fatigue, helplessness, self-harm, the mirror

"Have a nice day-oh..." She trailed off mid-platitude, blinking and looking away as she noticed my Fate. I knew that's what it was; I'd grown accustomed to the sudden loss of eye contact. One quick saccade, realization, revulsion, and finally embarrassment.

For the first time, I allowed myself to become aware of the other figure, standing beside and a bit behind her, like an over-controlling manager.

Old. Tired, yes, but at peace, nothing at all like the vivacious youth she'd once been.

Not a bad way to go.

No one knows where Fates came from, or at the very least if someone does, they're not telling. Maybe they sprung from our collective subconscious. Maybe there was a data breach at the Akashic records. Maybe it was just divine revelation.

Or maybe a Witch decided once and for all that She was tired of explaining Herself, tired of the rest of us not seeing the world through Her eyes.

All I know is that one day, they were suddenly there, just beside and a little behind each of us.

Didn't take long to figure out what they meant.

Even if there'd been the possibility for doubt, well, a sizable majority of that first bunch showed all the hallmarks of a myriad novel and varied means of suicide.

And then all of them came true.

Once people came face to face with an inerrant, tangible proof of their own mortality, well, they just gave up. Taking matters into your own hands was a means of control, of reclaiming agency, snatching back some false sense of free will from the jaws of predestination.

It was paradoxical, come to think of it, all wrapped up in retrocausality. None of them ever saw any other death but by their own choice. Perhaps it was just the finality of it all, but it hardly seems as if that could have driven any to it.

And yet...

It was a matter of proof incontrovertible that one just wasn't strong enough to survive in a world devoid of make-believe, one in which it seemed impossible to forget.

They were wrong. The human capacity for self-delusion and willful blindness should never be underestimated.

I nodded politely to the girl and wandered out of the shop to the street. Those who survived adapted quickly.

It became gauche to even notice another's Fate, much less comment on it, and how could one acknowledge one's own without tacitly, indirectly doing the same to others?

People just ignored them.

If your Fate was to die fast and young, what was there but to squeeze in every last drop of life in the interim?

And if instead one was to die after a long life, why bother thinking of the future? Damn the consequences; apparently they wouldn't matter.

And so it was that, after a short period of adaptation, society all but returned to normal.

All but us, the afflicted.

I peered furtively at passersby, taking in the myriad endings their Fates foretold.

Cancer.

Heart disease.

An overdose.

Vehicle accident.

The usual fare.

For them, death was a state, the finality of an outcome so unlike one's current state as to be near impossible to consider. And as such of no concern to them.

For some small number of us, though, death was a process. Dying, dying was hard. And living in spite of it harder still.

I looked to my side, forcing myself to see what others refused to, what I'd seen every single day since that first.

I saw myself, as I was.

My own life, as I lived it.

All the suffering and resentment I lived with, day after day after day.

Only, it wasn't the same at all.

Decades older, she was nevertheless a mirror of me, a cruel reflection in which every ounce of pain and frustration and resentment had been magnified, every bit of exhaustion redoubled.

Decrepit and decaying, I saw the truth of my future every single day.

Decline.

Despair.

Every time I looked at her, I saw that I would only worsen.

Every time I looked at her, I saw that, soon enough, my bad days would be good ones, and the bad to come worse still.

Every time I looked at her, I knew I would go on existing anyways, spared even the mercy of death.

No wonder then that I walked alone in a bubble of averted eyes down these crowded streets.

With time, they'd all found it easy enough to know that they'd die.

How much crueler a fate to know that you'd never be allowed to live.

~🪫

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this New York Times story:

The White House on Sunday released an executive order by President Trump that laid out a plan to exert the federal government’s role in California’s complex water management operations and claimed its authority to overrule state officials.

The order, dated Friday, comes after Mr. Trump traveled to the state to see the devastation from wildfires that have been raging in Los Angeles for weeks. It put formal directives behind Mr. Trump’s steady criticism of California’s leaders and their response to the fires.

In a section titled “Overriding Disastrous California Policies,” the order tasked more than half a dozen agencies with finding ways to circumvent federal and state laws that control various aspects of water management in California. It also directed the Interior Department to make decisions about how to supply water around the state, “notwithstanding any contrary state or local laws.”

More confrontational language in the order directed federal officials to stake out their authority without necessarily working alongside the state officials who manage the state’s reservoirs and plan for droughts and fires.

Interior Department officials “shall take all available measures to ensure that state agencies — including the California Department of Water Resources — do not interfere with the Bureau of Reclamation’s operation of the project,” the order said, referring to a federally operated network of dams, reservoirs, canals and other facilities.

Many of the actions outlined in the order relate to restrictions governed by the Endangered Species Act, since the region is home to several imperiled fish. One of them attempts to convene a committee known as the God Squad that can override the law, ultimately leading to the extinction of a species. Conservation groups blasted the order and threatened to sue depending on how it is implemented.

Despite the language of the executive order, the White House is constrained by existing federal laws, state laws and nature, said Karrigan Bork, a law professor at the University of California, Davis, and the interim director of its Center for Watershed Sciences.

“I don’t think it changes things very much,” Mr. Bork said of the order. “And it certainly doesn’t change California’s hydrology, which imposes the most significant limits on the amount of water that can flow to the Central Valley and Southern California.”

[chequerootlurks]

Article from the Chicago Sun Times - Link at the bottom, and in comments.

-=-=-=-

“Trump's federal funding freeze slated to disrupt vast array of programs, Illinois shut out of Medicaid”

The funding freeze could affect trillions of dollars and cause widespread disruption in health care research, education programs and other initiatives. Grants that have been awarded but not spent are also halted.

By Tina Sfondeles, Mitchell Armentrout, Lynn Sweet and Fran Spielman

______

As President Donald Trump’s temporary freeze on federal funding to state and local governments seeded disruption and panic throughout the country Tuesday, state officials reported that Medicaid funding in Illinois had shut down.

Trump’s administration announced the pause in federal grants, loans and other financial assistance as they embarked on a sweeping review of spending — a measure aimed at “ending ‘wokeness’ and the weaponization of government,” according to a memo from Matthew Vaeth, acting director of the Office of Management and Budget.

The funding freeze could affect trillions of dollars and cause widespread disruption in health care research, education programs and other initiatives. Grants that have been awarded but not spent are also halted, according to the Associated Press.

Although the White House in a memo stated that Medicare and Medicaid would not be affected by the freeze, Illinois on Tuesday reported that state agencies could not access federal funding sites that included Medicaid.

State agencies started reporting issues to Gov. JB Pritzker’s office Tuesday morning with accessing federal funding sites and disbursement systems, including Medicaid systems, his office said. Pritzker has been in communication with the state’s federal delegation, local elected officials, nonprofits and other governors about the matter.

“The governor has directed his senior team to assess the detrimental impacts of this unlawful action on the state’s budget and services,” governor’s office spokesman Matt Hill said.

Nearly 4 million lower-income Illinoisans had their health care covered in 2023 by Medicaid, a system in which the federal government reimburses the state about half of every dollar in medical costs.

Roughly a quarter of the state population is eligible for Medicaid coverage, including many children, pregnant women and people with disabilities.

Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza said the state processed all $518 million in Medicaid bills last week and received its federal match on Monday, before the Trump administration apparently shut down access to the system. “However, I am very concerned about how long this ‘freeze’ may last,” Mendoza said in a statement.

In the federal memo, Vaeth wrote: “The use of Federal resources to advance Marxist equity, transgenderism, and green new deal social engineering policies is a waste of taxpayer dollars that does not improve the day-to-day lives of those we serve.”

Vaeth said each agency must complete a comprehensive analysis of all federal financial assistance programs.

“In the interim, to the extent permissible under applicable law, Federal agencies must temporarily pause all activities related to obligation or disbursement of all Federal financial assistance, and other relevant agency activities that may be implicated by the executive orders.”

—Impact on Chicago—

Mayor Brandon Johnson questioned Trump’s authority to withhold funding appropriated by Congress, even temporarily.

“These are unprecedented attempts to defund child care or to defund infrastructure projects. This is something that is well outside the purview of the executive office,” a defiant Johnson told a City Hall news conference

After conferring with U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, Johnson said the Illinois Democrats have “assured me that they are gonna continue to fight on behalf of the residents of Chicago.

“These appropriations have been mandated by the legislative branch. These are laws. As a country of laws and democracy, we prefer when we have leaders who actually are committed to upholding that law,” the mayor said.

Corporation Counsel Mary Richardson-Lowry said she is now in the process of analyzing what impact the freeze would have on the city’s $17.1 billion budget and on “any existing projects and initiatives.”

The potential impact of even a temporary freeze could be staggering.

Budget Director Annette Guzman said an analysis of all federal grant funding received by the city last year as well as future appropriations enacted by Congress showed that roughly $4 billion hangs in the balance.

“We’re analyzing our analysis again, based on what OMB put out…We don’t know the full implications of what OMB’s actions will mean and we don’t know what potentially Congress will do based on the letter that came out,” she said.

The $4 billion figure is total grant funding to Chicago, with some portion of that total subject to being withheld, if Trump’s edict is allowed to stand.

“We have large grants in infrastructure. We have grants from a lot of departments on the federal level. There’s varying degrees of what we think could be impacted based on pronouncements from the Trump administration both before coming into office as well as since they’ve taken office,” Guzman said.

“We need some time to analyze the letter…what does it exactly mean to pause federal funding. But, we’re doing that work now and we’ll have more to say later.”

Guzman was asked how long it would take before uncertainty turns into consequences. How soon will the city decide not to hire to fill grant-funded positions or not award a federally-funded contract?

“We are reviewing those things right now. We have to talk directly with our departments to understand exactly what programming is at risk,” she said.

“We are hopefully going to be making those determinations sooner rather than later.”

Johnson urged city employees and delegate agencies not to hit the panic button just yet.

“I just want to underscore as I’ve spoken with our senators—we’re not entirely sure if he’s working within the framework of his authority,” the mayor said.

“So, it’s a legitimate question in terms of what this so-called `pause’ means. No one has been able to determine whether or not an executive branch has the ability to…rescind a law that has been specified in terms of appropriations.”

Durbin called the freeze unconstitutional and “above all else, it’s inhumane.”

“Every American relies on federal funding — from public safety, disaster relief, medical research funding, and small business loans to Head Start and child care programs, veterans care, nutrition assistance, food inspections, and so much more,” Durbin said in a statement. “Denying critical funding for our families will not make America great.”

-Cuts to research, violence prevention and more-

While Chicago-area officials grappled with what the federal funding freeze might mean, researchers at the University of Chicago were already being directed to rein in any work that relies on dollars from Washington.

In a faculty memo, University of Chicago Provost Katherine Baicker told faculty to not to “purchase new supplies or equipment, start new experiments, embark on funded travel, etc.”

“This is not a request that I make lightly. The research enterprise is at the core of our University’s mission and is of profound importance to the daily work of our faculty, researchers, staff, and students. I also know that this is insufficient guidance and that you must have many questions (as do I),” Baicker wrote.

“I wish that I had more information to share now, but will continue to be in touch as we learn more. But we must for now proceed under the assumption that grant expenditures incurred after today while this memorandum is in effect may not be covered by federal funding.”

Community activists also sounded the alarm on federal dollars being cut off for violence prevention programs.

“We must stand up and resist this fascism that is taking over our country. And we must do it now,” South Side pastor Rev. Michael Pfleger said.

Ald. Scott Waguespack (32nd) chaired the City Council’s Finance Committee before being deposed by Johnson.

He was among those warning top mayoral aides during budget hearings that they had “better be prepared for major cuts or shifts” in federal spending under Trump.

Now that his earlier warning has turned into a harsh reality, Waguespack said the Johnson administration should be “cautious about spending any federal dollars” going forward until the legality of Trump’s federal funding “pause” is determined.

His conservative estimate is that “tens of millions of dollars” is at risk, potentially threatening Chicago’s ability to bankroll, what he called “the basics like our road infrastructure, our sewers, our overall safety net of infrastructure that we build in every city in the U.S.”

“I would think that every mayor, every village mayor around Illinois not to mention the whole U.S. is looking at their budget this morning wondering how they’re gonna make ends meet if even a small portion is withheld,” Waguespack said.

https://chicago.suntimes.com/politics/donald-trump/2025/01/28/illinois-medicaid-federal-funding-freeze-trump-administration?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2g8dyyuKimcjPOAgLvlOhTcKsrnQtUKT_hwTEDOi1IZd8ZojFf6QrJND8_aem_ETF2ciak7sZ1tR3BK55NUg

[trump-executive-orders]

Restoring Accountability for Career Senior Executives

Issued January 20, 2025.

Career Senior Executive Service (SES) officials are charged to "ensure that the executive management of the Government of the United States is responsive to the needs, policies, and goals of the Nation and otherwise is of the highest quality," as required by section 3131 of title 5, United States Code. SES officials have enormous influence over the functioning of the Federal Government, and thus the well-being of hundreds of millions of Americans.

As the Constitution makes clear, and as the Supreme Court of the United States has reaffirmed, "the 'executive Power' -- all of it -- is 'vested in a President,' who must 'take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed.'" Seila Law LLC v. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, 591 U.S. 197, 203 (2020). "Because no single person could fulfill that responsibility alone, the Framers expected that the President would rely on subordinate officers for assistance," Id. at 203-04.

The President's power to remove subordinates is a core part of the Executive power vested by Article II of the Constitution and is necessary for the President to perform his duty to "take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed." Because SES officials wield significant governmental authority, they must serve at the pleasure of the President.

Only that chain of responsibility ensures that SES officials are properly accountable to the President and the American people. If career SES officials fail to faithfully fulfill their duties to advance the needs, policies, and goals of the United States, the President must be able to rectify the situation and ensure that the entire Executive Branch faithfully executes the law. For instance, SES officials who engage in unauthorized disclosure of Executive Branch deliberations, violate the constitutional rights of Americans, refuse to implement policy priorities, or perform their duties inefficiently or negligently should be held accountable.

The President must be able to trust that the Executive Branch will work together in service of the Nation. My Administration will restore a "government of the people, by the people, for the people." Therefore:

(a) Within 30 days of the signing of this memorandum, the Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), in coordination with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), shall issue SES Performance Plans that agencies must adopt;

(b) Agency heads, who along with their senior staff manage career SES officials as one of their core functions, shall use all available authorities to reinvigorate the SES system and prioritize accountability;

(c) Each agency head shall, as necessary and appropriate and consistent with the procedural requirements of section 3395 of title 5, United States Code, reassign agency SES members to ensure their knowledge, skills, abilities, and mission assignments are optimally aligned to implement my agenda;

(d) Each agency head should terminate its existing Executive Resources Board (ERB), institute a new or interim ERB, and assign senior noncareer officials to chair and serve on the board as a majority alongside career members;

(e) Each agency head should terminate its existing Performance Review Board membership and reconstitute membership with individuals committed to full enforcement of SES performance evaluations that promote and assure an SES of the highest caliber; and

(f) Any agency head who becomes aware of an SES official whose performance or continued occupancy of the position is inconsistent with either the principles reaffirmed in this Order or their duties to the Nation under section 3131 of title 5, United States Code, shall immediately take all appropriate actions, up to and including removal of that official, with the support of OPM and OMB. Restoring an accountable government workforce is a top priority of my Administration.

[bconsult]

"The Role of Executive Search Firms in Finding Top Talent.

In today’s competitive business environment, finding the right leaders for an organization can be challenging. This is where executive search firms step in, acting as strategic partners in sourcing, evaluating, and hiring top-tier talent. Whether you’re a growing business or a large corporation, executive search firms can play a pivotal role in ensuring your leadership team drives success. This blog delves into what executive search firms do, their benefits, and why partnering with them is a smart decision.

What Are Executive Search Firms?

Executive search firms, often referred to as headhunters, are specialized recruitment agencies that focus on filling senior-level and executive positions within organizations. Unlike standard recruitment agencies, executive search firms take a targeted and highly personalized approach to identify candidates who align with a company’s strategic goals and culture.

Key Services Offered:

Leadership Assessment: Evaluating current leadership capabilities to identify gaps.

Talent Mapping: Identifying potential candidates within a specific industry.

Confidential Searches: Conducting discreet recruitment processes for sensitive roles.

Why Do Companies Use Executive Search Firms?

Hiring for executive roles is a critical process that demands expertise, precision, and discretion. Here are some reasons why companies turn to executive search firms:

1. Access to a Wider Talent Pool

Executive search firms have extensive networks and databases of professionals who may not actively be seeking new opportunities but are open to the right offer. They know where to find the best talent, even if it’s not listed on traditional job boards.

2. Expertise in Industry-Specific Recruitment

Executive search firms specialize in particular industries and understand the nuances of what makes a successful leader within those fields. This specialization ensures that candidates not only have the required skills but also fit seamlessly into the organization’s culture.

3. Time and Cost Efficiency

Searching for executive talent can be time-consuming and expensive when done in-house. Executive search firms streamline the process by handling everything from sourcing candidates to conducting initial screenings, saving companies valuable time and resources.

4. Enhanced Confidentiality

When hiring for sensitive positions such as CEOs or CFOs, discretion is paramount. Executive search firms maintain confidentiality throughout the recruitment process, protecting the organization’s interests and reputation.

How Executive Search Firms Operate

Understanding how executive search firms work can help businesses leverage their services effectively. The recruitment process generally involves the following steps:

1. Initial Consultation

The search begins with an in-depth consultation where the firm learns about the organization’s needs, culture, and the specific requirements of the role.

2. Candidate Sourcing

Using their extensive networks, executive search firms identify potential candidates. This includes active professionals and passive talent who may not be actively job hunting but are open to new opportunities.

3. Candidate Evaluation

Candidates are thoroughly assessed through interviews, reference checks, and psychometric testing. This ensures they meet both technical qualifications and cultural fit.

4. Presentation of Candidates

The firm presents a shortlist of the most suitable candidates, along with detailed profiles and recommendations. Companies then decide which candidates to move forward with.

5. Support During Onboarding

Many executive search firms provide support during the onboarding process to ensure a smooth transition and long-term success for both the candidate and the organization.

Benefits of Partnering With Executive Search Firms

The decision to hire an executive search firm can significantly impact the quality of talent an organization attracts. Here’s how businesses benefit:

1. Precision and Expertise

Executive search firms are skilled in identifying candidates with the exact qualifications and experience needed for a role. Their expertise ensures a higher success rate compared to traditional hiring methods.

2. Reduced Risk of Bad Hires

Hiring the wrong executive can be costly and disruptive. Search firms minimize this risk by conducting rigorous assessments and presenting only the best candidates.

3. Objective Perspective

Executive search firms offer an impartial perspective, helping organizations avoid biases that can arise during internal recruitment processes.

4. Competitive Advantage

Hiring exceptional leaders gives organizations a competitive edge. Executive search firms help businesses secure top talent that drives innovation and growth.

Choosing the Right Executive Search Firm

Not all executive search firms are created equal. When selecting a partner, consider the following factors:

Industry Expertise: Ensure the firm has a strong track record in your specific industry.

Global Reach: For multinational roles, choose a firm with global networks and capabilities.

Success Rate: Look for firms with high placement success rates and long-term client relationships.

Customization: The best firms offer tailored services that align with your unique hiring needs.

Conclusion

Executive search firms are invaluable partners for organizations looking to secure top-tier leadership talent. Their expertise, extensive networks, and targeted approach make the hiring process efficient, precise, and effective. By partnering with the right executive search firm, companies can build a strong leadership team that drives success and fosters growth. Whether you’re filling a critical role or planning for long-term leadership needs, investing in the services of an executive search firm is a step toward securing your organization’s future.

Visit US - https://bconsult.io/

Contact US - Phone - 0409090434 Mail id- contact@bconsult.io Timings- 8AM-5PM

[horizon-verizon]

What do you think happened to Daenaera ?

*EDITED* 10/7/23

GRRM has a habit of not developing or bringing back some female characters past their relationships with certain male, more central characters--even with those women being forces of nature themselves--while their male partners, sons, brothers, fathers, etc. go on to perform various political deeds on a grander scale/reconnection to the main story being told. To iterate, women--before the main series--do not get noted as doing much of anything in comparison to their male counterparts in the history books Fire and Blood and A World of Ice and Fire partly because, yes, women will not have the same access to power or mobility as men in this world AND because they are supposed to be the first Targ women to be pushed out of politics after Rhaenyra was ousted....but again, Baela and Daena at least?! Those women who directly defied physical and other sorts of limitations on their bodies and choices from men? What series of events happen to make them peace out of the public or doing anything? Why aren't they doing or advising anything during the first Blackfyre War? We don't have to hear absolutely nothing of these women to recognize how they would/could be excluded from main politics, and it's just inconsistent with their characters, which raises the question of their inactivity! The absence of an answer or a story where they act is the narrative GRRM writes really just reinforcing the idea that women do not have as important roles in a central political conflict or their stories to tell as their male counterparts. (Again, this is a critique of the writing.)

Examples, with some repetitions:

Baela Targaryen's lack of a reaction towards Alyn's infidelity while we get his mention with Elaena. Was Baela dead, or did their relationship simply dissolve into a semi-friendly platonic one before Elaena ever came into the picture?

We don't hear of Daena after she births Daemon Blackfyre. What was she doing during her son's rebellion, when did she die, we don't know.

Aelora goes "mad" after allegedly killing her own brother, is made the next heir, and was "attacked" by leaders of a rebellion against her family (likely a sexual assault, GRRM also loves those) and she kills herself shortly thereafter. What was her life like in the interim, what was her relationship with her brother like, how did she--if she did--prepare to become Queen?

Daenerys Targaryen, aside from having been in love with Daemon Blackfyre, being forced to marry a much older man, and raising the Water Gardens at Dorne, never spoken of again. What other stuff did she do in Dorne, even if just to encourage good relations between her maiden house and the Martells?

[ASoIaF] Lyanna dies of childbirth after having Rhaegar's kid; Elia is sick for most of her adult life and pretty much out of commission to her death and rape.

[ASoIaF] Shae dies by choked-out-by-lover when she has been portrayed mostly as a passive means to Tyrion's coping mechanisms and we do not get information on how she's forced to live mostly by herself to avoid death in her pursuance of safety from Tyrion's taking her on as a paramour. (Her sexual agency in conflict sometimes with her need for protection as a young family-less commonborn girl [18yrs old] pushing her to consider depending on an aristocratic man she probably wouldn't have had relations with if she weren't vulnerable as she was).

Daenaera may have been a smiley woman who managed to help Aegon III be less depressed, but she didn't seem the political, big personality, or big-society-changing sort of person either. So it's easier to write her off and have fans less curious of her than Baela. Due to her personality, I think she was more or less just there publicly and performed the similar sort of actions any Queen Consort is expected to take (in terms of being as less personal about it and looking at her involvement with administration, public policy, economic stuff, etc., what, if there were any, her political actions): running the royal household and its arrears, servants, managers, etc. when she's not with her children/ladies-in-waiting or looking for some private time, quietly advising her husband, maintaining whatever little ties Aegon has with however small number of court nobles were seeking his favor or hers, and making sure he wasn't too deep in his depression. Ladies (noble women) and royal women were tasked with maintaining bonds between those within their own house as well as between those external houses' bond with their own husbands/children's--her maiden house, even.

It feels like Daenaera would have been a bit lonelier (sometimes) and feel more helpless regarding her family than other Queen Consorts that existed thus far (Visenya, Rhaenys, Alysanne, Aemma, Alicent) because of Aegon III's not bothering to engage with the nobles and is withdrawals even from his inner circle--he was most likely just that depressed and had irritable spells-- thus giving her less persons to interact with and possibly become closer to AND her feeling like she couldn't really help him a much as she wanted to. It's also possible that with her being his Consort/the Queen, first brought in to help his political and emotional needs (Unwin Peake), and his wife/romantic companion she felt throughout their marriage that she had a pressing desire and compulsion to make his days as happy and easy as possible...so a smiley Shonda Rhimes Queen Catherine with a husband with a much less severe mental illness.

How does this affect her relationships with her kids? It doesn't seem like she had terrible relationships or even strained ones with them from the little we get of her, Aegon, Baelor, Daena, Daeron, Elaena, and Rhaena's lives before Aegon's death. But it is quite obvious that: with their 5 kids birthed in relatively close succession (as an anon reasoned); Daena herself being named either after Daenaera or Aegon's father Daemon and Daena naming her son after said grandfather that she was close with her parents and most of her siblings (yes, we know about her admiration for Daeron). She and her sisters came out more or less well adjusted, while of the two boys, Baelor came out a little cuckoo. Check out what I say HERE about these boys, but ultimately Rhaenyra and her son/their dad's legacies affected how they thought they should augment their dynasty's power, prestige, and relationship with the nobles. Thus he was brasher than some wanted him to be and eager for victories. So if she hadn't existed, the family would have definitely been more fraught and emotionally alienated from each other, but there's only so much Daenaera could do before AND if she ever lived into Daeron's or Baelor's reigns.

But I digress and am loath to present these as 100% facts publicly...even when I really think this was the case.

Daenaera most likely lived as most Queen Consorts did but without the death of childbirth. GRRM likes to at least "announce" when that happens. She served the purpose of getting Aegon "happier" and ending Unwin Peake's machinations with the Maiden Ball. Very important things, but much more limited.

[rambleonwaywardson]

Astronaut AU Definitions

Since we're getting into more mission oriented chapters and I'm not sure how technical things will get, a definition post that I will link on future chapters and add to as needed:

Flight Controllers: CAPCOM: Capsule communicator; direct line of contact between astronauts and mission control

CDH: Command and Data Handling Officer; manages computer systems, software, data, and display interfaces on Orion

EECOM: Emergency, Environmental, and Consumables Officer; monitors environmental controls, life support systems, and emergency procedures in Orion

FAO: Flight Activities Officer; manages and coordinates the flight plan to meet mission objectives, including timeline of all crew activities

FIDO: Flight Dynamics Officer; monitors the trajectory of Orion through the entire mission

Flight: The flight director; oversees all mission control activity

GNC: Guidance, Navigation, and Control Officer; operates and monitors navigation and flight control software on Orion

INCO: Integrated Communications Officer; monitors Orion's communication systems (data, telemetry, and video)

MPO: Mechanical and Power Officer; monitors electrical, mechanical, structural, and landing/recovery systems on Orion including batteries, solar arrays, thermal protection, etc.

PAO: Public Affairs Officer (Marge!); provides mission commentary, explains the mission and flight control operations to the public/media, and coordinates events between the media and crew/mission control

Prop: Propulsion Officer; monitors Orion's propulsion systems, engine burns, position control maneuvers

General Space Program/Mission Terminology: AGS: abort guidance system

ESA: European Space Agency

ESL: Earth Landing System - jettisons the crew capsule heat shield and releases the parachutes during re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere

EVA: Extravehicular activity (spacewalks and moonwalks)

G-LOC: Loss of consciousness due to G forces on the body; occurs when increased force of gravity causes blood to drain away from the head.

G-suit: a special flight suit worn by pilots to prevent blackout due to high G forces. Keeps blood from pooling in the lower body.

ISS: International Space Station

JSC: Johnson Space Center in Houston TX

KSC: Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, FL

Neutral Buoyancy Tank: Giant water tank at JSC used to simulate working in zero gravity

OCS suits: Orion Crew Survival suits; the space suits worn inside the spacecraft during critical mission phases and in an emergency situation

Launch and Other Spacecraft Terminology: APU: Auxiliary Power Unit; provides power/electricity to the spacecraft

Feet Wet: Navy and Air Force speak for being over water

“G” or Gs: the force of gravity (7 Gs is 7 times the force of gravity on Earth)

GLS: Ground Launch Sequencer; automated system that controls the countdown from about T-10 minutes on. Starting at this point, 'T-' is used instead of 'L-'

H-dot: the time derivative of height (the ascent rate of a space vehicle) during launch

ICPU: Interim Cryogenic Propulsion Stage; another stage of the SLS with more engines that are used to reorient the spacecraft after core stage separation

LEO: Low Earth Orbit

LLO: Low Lunar Orbit

Max q: maximum dynamic pressure on the rocket due to pushing through the thickest part of the atmosphere at high speeds

MECO: Main Engine Cut Off (literally cutting off the main engine)

NRHO: Near-Rectilinear Halo Orbit; the orbit that Orion will be in around the moon, balanced between the moon's gravity and the Earth's gravity; spacecraft in constant contact with and view of Earth

PGNS: pronounced “pings,” Primary Navigation and Guidance System

RRT: Re-entry interface - the moment the capsule re-enters Earth’s atmosphere

SRB: Solid Rocket Booster; solid propellant motors providing additional thrust (there are two on the sides of SLS)

TLI: Trans-Lunar Injection burn; firing the engines to get the spacecraft on a path towards the moon

[beardedmrbean]

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — California will provide 100% of the water requested by cities and farms for the first time in years thanks to winter storms that filled reservoirs and runoff from a record snowpack, regulators announced Thursday.

The State Water Project will provide full allocations to 29 water agencies supplying about 27 million customers and 750,000 acres of farmland, the Department of Water Resources said.

As late as March, the agency was only expecting to provide 75% of requested water supplies.

The last time the state agency fully met water requests was in 2006.

Meanwhile, the federal Bureau of Reclamation announced it was increasing water allocations for the Central Valley Project to 100% for the first time since 2017.

The move was cheered by contractors who supply the federal water to the state's agricultural heartland. It will provide much-needed water to communities, farms and families in the San Joaquin Valley, said a statement from Jose Gutierrez, interim general manager of Westlands Water District.

"Following two years of 0% allocations, this water supply will assist growers in Westlands with putting the land to work to grow the food that feeds the world,” he said.

Both the state and federal governments control networks of reservoirs and canals that supply water across California.

Three years of drought had pinched off supplies drastically in the nation’s most populous state. Late last year, nearly all of California was in drought, including at extreme and exceptional levels. Wells ran dry, farmers fallowed fields, and cities restricted watering grass.

The water picture changed dramatically starting in December, when the first of a dozen “ atmospheric rivers ” hit, causing widespread flooding and damaging homes and infrastructure, and dumping as many as 700 inches (17.8 meters) of snow in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

The statewide reservoir storage on Thursday was at 105% of the average for the date, the Department of Water Resources said.

The runoff from the melting snow will supply additional water that the state agency said it is working to capture.

As of this week, more than 65% of California no longer had drought conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

However, the Department of Water Resources urged people to continue using water cautiously. State officials have warned that in the era of climate change, one extremely wet year could be followed by several dry years, returning the state to drought.

The state water agency noted that some northern areas of the state still have water supply issues. In addition, some areas, including the agricultural Central Valley, are still recovering after years of pumping that has depleted underground water.

“Millions of Californians rely on groundwater supplies as a sole source of water," the agency warned.

“The Colorado River Basin, which is a critical water supply source for Southern California, is still in the midst of a 23-year drought,” the agency added. “Californians should continue to use water wisely to help the state adapt to a hotter, drier future.”

[gus-romo]

Gus Romo - MBA From the University of Redlands

Gus Romo founded the Romo Planning Group, Inc., also known as RPG, in 2001. The company brings independent contractors together along with a group of employees to assist public agencies with civic staffing needs, including planners, building inspectors, environmental professionals, and administrative assistants to provide interim solutions as well as project managers for complex assignments.

[news-venue]

Anil Ambani's wife Tina appears before ED in FEMA case

The investigation against the couple pertains to the possession of certain alleged undisclosed assets abroad and the linked movement of funds, the sources said.

MUMBAI: Tina Ambani, the wife of Reliance ADA Group Chairman Anil Ambani, on Tuesday appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) here for questioning and recording her statement in connection with an investigation linked to the alleged contravention of the foreign exchange law, official sources said.

Anil Ambani recorded his statement in the case on Monday under sections of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) and he is expected to appear before the federal agency again later this week for completion of the exercise.

The investigation against the couple pertains to the possession of certain alleged undisclosed assets abroad and the linked movement of funds, the sources said.

Anil Ambani’s alleged links to some offshore companies based in Jersey, the British Virgin Islands and Cyprus are under the probe scanner of the ED.

He had been questioned by the agency in 2020 in a money laundering case against Yes Bank promoter Rana Kapoor and others.

In August last year, the income-tax department issued a notice to Anil Ambani under the anti-black money law for allegedly evading Rs 420 crore in taxes on undisclosed funds of more than Rs 814 crore held in two Swiss bank accounts.

The Bombay High Court in March ordered an interim stay on this I-T show-cause notice and penalty demand.