Interview: Bob Stei, Media & Communications Recruitment Manager
Bob Stei launched the media division at Roos Advisors. He currently lives a double life with 30 years as a radio broadcaster and almost 20 years as an executive recruiter. Stei began his radio career as an intern at WNEW-FM New York, while obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications from Manhattan College. His radio travels include stops at WIYY Baltimore, WMMR, WMGK and WRFF Philadelphia, WBAB Long Island, WZZO Allentown, WCHR-FM New Jersey Shore, WCZT Atlantic City and the list goes on. Hosting nights at KKDJ Fresno and broadcasting over 25 weather reports to stations nationwide through Radio Forecast Network, the Baltimore native is now working on a book about his time at Manhattan College in the 90’s.
How did you fall into recruiting? Honestly, in January of 2004, I was in between jobs and by coincidence, I just fell into it. A company saw my resume and thought I might be good on the phone and once I got into it, I loved it!
What’s your day-to-day like? My day-to-day is divided between business development and recruiting. On the business development side, I reach out to c-level executives at a variety of companies and speak with them to find out their needs. If we can help, then my next step is to dive deeper into my personal introduction and establish a relationship. In recruiting, I find candidates by cold calling or reaching out via social media. Once I connect with individuals, I start a conversation, ask for their resumes, listen to what they desire in a job and then get to work on placing them with a company that matches their needs and potential.
Why did you decide to start working with Roos Advisors? I actually worked with Larendee eight years ago! When we decided to team up again, just before Covid-19, I knew it was where I needed to be. The company has huge goals and expectations; and at the same time, truly understands the importance of family life and taking care of its employees.
What are the advantages of working with Roos Advisors? Larendee and I make a great team, and the clients always seem impressed. Every part of the process is scrutinized. We have a clear picture of what the client needs and every candidate is double vetted and prepared before being introduced. We really work hand in hand with the clients and candidates, which not only makes the end result easier, but it prevents surprises as well!
Can you describe your role in three words? Challenging, different – it’s never the same day – and rewarding.
What is your favorite part of what you do for a living? I really do enjoy the process of getting a job order, talking to candidates, and eventually finding them their ideal role.
If you could switch jobs with anyone, who would it be? Definitely Howard Stern. He’s done it all throughout his career – radio, movies, TV, books, etc.
Last but not least, tell us about your mentors. The people I interned with fresh out of school helped me land my first job in radio. At my first job, I met Zach Martin, who mentored me in launching my career. Throughout my career, I have had many roles in radio, but when I took a job as a DJ at a radio station in Philly, I met Christian Cudnik. Not only did we produce great work, but he took me under his wing and helped me land the job in the first place.
