We decided to write a little about ourselves so that candidates could get to know us better. So, here is my story 
I started out in the advertising business right out of college. I was extremely fortunate to land at some great agencies and work with very talented people. Account management was challenging, but rewarding at the same time. A friend asked me to move out to Los Angeles with her when I was employed at Draft Worldwide. The timing was great for my personal life, but it was hard to leave a job that I enjoyed so much.
Off I went to L.A. with no plan, no job and very little money! I found a position with a production company called “The Forge” which was ran by actress/producer, Geena Davis and her husband (now he’s her ex), producer/director, Renny Harlin. Then I moved over to Turner Pictures as second assistant to the President. Turner was folded into another major studio since then. I was on the right track for a fulfilling career, but I realized that I’d have to devote more of myself to the movie business than I was willing to. After leaving Chicago, I really missed the people and the culture. L.A. was an adventure for me, but there is no place like Chicago so it was time to move back.
After returning, I worked at Wunderman and Foote Cone & Belding in account management. Again, I was on a great career track, but something was missing. After doing some soul-searching, I found that my lifestyle warranted a different professional path. Melinda was my recruiter at the time and she suggested that I try this side of the business. I am forever grateful to her! She has become a dear friend.
I decided to take a gamble and give it a try. Now I’ve been a recruiter for over 12 years and I made the right decision. The workload is just as demanding as the agency side of the business, but it is a different type of challenge. Through our work, I do believe that we’ve made a positive difference in many people’s lives and that is a great feeling.
Outside of work, I simply like to have a good time, stay young at heart and live life to the fullest! I spend as much time as I can with my great friends and my wonderful family. I love doing just about anything outdoors and if it’s on the water, a boat or an island, even better. I love fishing, kayaking, hiking, swimming, boating, running, camping, etc. Usually there is some sort of partying involved with my crazy group of friends. My husband and I have a 14 week-old daughter and a 22 month-old son. They keep us insanely busy, but we adore them and they’re well worth it
So, that’s me! I have enjoyed getting to know our clients and candidates through the years. It has been a fun ride and we are so grateful for the amazing people we get to work with on a daily basis. I look forward to continuing to work together!
- Lisa Casper, Vice President, Senior Recruiter, Melinda Holm & Associates
