Elevating Executive Search with Integrity and Innovation
In a recent episode of the Honeit Podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Miquel McMoore, the powerhouse CEO of kpCompanies, a Minnesota-based executive search firm recognized for its authentic approach to recruiting, unwavering commitment to diversity, and early adoption of innovative recruiting tools, including Honeit.
With over 20 years in the industry, Miquel brings both wisdom and clarity to a field that’s often been slow to evolve. In our conversation, she shares the story behind founding kpCompanies, her approach to high-touch executive search, and how her team uses technology to scale impact, without losing the human element.
Key Podcast Takeaways:
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Integrity and relationships are the foundation of successful executive search.
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Bias still exists, but it can be challenged through intentional sourcing and inclusive representation.
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Technology like Honeit enhances recruiter productivity and professionalism, without removing the human touch.
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Candidate experience matters deeply, even in executive search, where client fees drive the business.
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DEIB remains a long-term business strategy, not a passing trend.
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Growth takes courage, and sometimes a little righteous fury can spark real change.
Challenging Bias, Creating Opportunity
One of the most powerful moments in the podcast is when Miquel describes the frustrations that fueled her decision to go independent. Working within a larger firm, she encountered systemic biases, especially around the perceived availability of qualified diverse talent. Tired of hearing, “They’re just not quite there yet,” she knew it was time to create a firm that not only sourced inclusively but presented diverse talent with confidence and clarity. This philosophy continues to shape kpCompanies’ mission: to be a trusted, ethical search partner that helps clients discover exceptional talent they might otherwise overlook.
Since its founding, kpCompanies has grown from a one-woman show to a full-service retained executive search firm with a national footprint. Today, they focus exclusively on senior-level roles across functional disciplines (finance, HR, marketing, legal, etc.), and have built a strong niche in the nonprofit sector, an area Miquel once assumed lacked budget but later realized was rich with opportunity and purpose. The firm has also expanded its services to include temporary staffing and contract placements, while staying true to its roots in high-touch executive recruiting.
Technology Helps (But Doesn’t Replace Relationships)
Miquel is quick to clarify: Technology enhances recruiting. It doesn’t replace the relationship. Tools like Honeit, she says, have been transformational. Honeit interview intelligence helps her recruiters conduct better interviews, capture soundbites from real conversations, and present candidates in a more polished, professional, and differentiated way. Clients love the insight, and recruiters love the efficiency. “We’ve elevated our brand,” Miquel shares. “Honeit makes our candidate presentations sharper, faster, and more impactful. It’s helped us deliver value and stand out in a competitive market.”
Candidate Care Above All
While her clients pay the fees, Miquel makes it clear: Candidate care is their top priority. Recruiting, especially at the executive level, is an emotional and deeply personal process. Candidates are trusting you with their stories, careers, and futures. And that means communication, empathy, and respect must come first. Technology can save time, but it can’t replace human follow-up or real connection.
A Real Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Long before DEI was a buzzword, kpCompanies was doing the work. And even as some companies pull back their commitments in today’s political climate, Miquel remains focused:
Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are still critical business imperatives, not just moral ones. Companies that ignore this will fall behind—not only in innovation but in market reach and customer understanding.
Advice for the Next Generation of Search Leaders
Miquel’s final message to aspiring entrepreneurs and independent recruiters: “Just do it.”
There’s low barrier to entry in recruiting, but succeeding requires grit, ethics, and a genuine passion for helping people. She encourages new recruiters to lead with authenticity, invest in great tools, and stay committed to delivering value to both candidates and clients.
