About

The Calibrated Approach

Calibrated Search exists to support organizations and individuals through moments that matter. Leadership changes, career shifts, and periods of growth deserve more than efficiency—they deserve attention and care. We work slowly and intentionally so decisions are grounded, people feel respected, and outcomes last.

WHO WE WORK WITH

Organizations and Individuals Navigating Meaningful Change

Mission-Driven Organizations

Non-profits

FOUNDATIONS

Conscious Companies + INDIVIDUALS

Kara Teising

FOUNDER

After two decades of guiding executive leaders into their next chapter, Kara followed her own calling and created a firm rooted in people-first search. Her approach brings structure without rigidity, warmth without sentimentality, and impact that endures. She’s known for her discerning eye, her steady presence, and her ability to ask the questions that shift everything. Home is Nashville, where she’s raising great humans (and one lovable pup), and continuing to build a life — and a business — that aligns with her deepest values.

Isabella Cassell

Chief of Staff + Talent Lead

Isabella’s work lives at the crossroads of people, possibility, and thoughtful leadership. Over the past decade, she has supported mission-driven organizations through executive search, Chief of Staff leadership, accelerator design, and large-scale community building—including founding her own New York–based venture centered on connection and growth. A certified coach and seasoned search professional, she brings clarity, care, and systems-level insight to moments of transition, helping leaders name what matters and move forward with intention. She’s known for her warmth, her strategic mind, and her ability to see potential early and nurture it with purpose. Home is Brooklyn, where she continues to build communities, ventures, and experiences designed for lasting impact.

What Candidates Say

“I had a great experience with Calibrated Search. What I appreciated most was the clarity and consistency of communication. The team let me know what to expect at every stage of the process, kept me updated on timing and next steps, and provided insights and coaching that were genuinely useful. All feedback, whether strategic or tactical, was framed in a way that helped me set expectations appropriately and show up prepared. It was a very supportive and well-run search experience. I’m deeply grateful for the partnership. This was one of the most seamless and supportive search processes I’ve been part of. Kara was an exceptional thought partner throughout, and I felt genuinely set up for success. I would absolutely recommend Calibrated Search to other senior-level candidates.”

Maria GonzaleS

Chief Development Officer, Conservation Lands Foundation

“In more than 20 years leading teams and building brands, I have not had a better experience interviewing than the journey to my current role with Kara as a guide. The level of professionalism, transparency, coaching, communication and cheerleading was out of this world—exceeding my expectations in every way. She stands apart from the crowd by showing up as equally committed to candidate success as she is to the success of her hiring client. Whether as a client or candidate, I’d work with her again in a heartbeat!”

Kelly Chmielewski

Chief Marketing Officer, National Forest Foundation

“Working with Kara Teising and the Calibrated Search team was an exceptional experience. Kara was consistently communicative, deeply supportive of me as a candidate, and remarkably skilled at helping me articulate and align my core values with a mission‑driven organization. Her guidance strengthened both my confidence and my clarity throughout the process. I’m grateful for her partnership and would recommend Calibrated Search without hesitation.”

Andrea Sodja

President, Brendle Group

“Working with Calibrated Search - specifically with Kara - was an exceptional experience from start to finish. Throughout the search process for the Chief Development Officer role at USA for UNHCR, Kara was consistently communicative, transparent, and deeply supportive. Her expertise, insight, and thoughtful guidance helped me navigate each step with confidence. Thanks to her outstanding work, I found not just a new role but truly my dream job. I am immensely grateful for Kara’s professionalism and partnership, and I cannot recommend Calibrated Search highly enough.”

Lacey Stone

Chief Development Officer, USA for UNHCR

“Kara was an exceptional partner throughout my recruitment process—she truly coached and advocated for me. She kept me consistently informed and in the loop, so I never felt uncertain about where things stood. Her professionalism and clear respect for my time made the entire experience feel thoughtful and seamless.”

Clare Bastable

VP Policy and Programs, Western Resource Advocates

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If you’re about to embark on an executive search or looking for more alignment, we’d love to talk about how we can work together.

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