Kathleen Duffy said that being recognized as a Titan 100 for the second time is a big honor and a validation that after three decades in business, Duffy Group Inc. has made great strides. “More than the recognition, being a titan of industry has afforded me with continuing learning and collaboration opportunities from other leaders in a variety of industries,” she said.
Duffy Group Inc. is a global recruitment company whose innovative recruitment research model targets optimal candidates in a variety of industries. Founded in 1991, the company delivers real-world, actionable knowledge to employers to unearth hidden talent.
As a titan in the recruiting industry, Duffy has learned more than ever to be nimble. “While technology can be a partner in recruiting, I believe helping our clients land their great next hire takes more,” she said.
Duffy trusts her team’s ability to use Duffy Group’s recruitment research model to harness market intelligence, work as a discrete and transparent partner and deliver quality candidates with up to 50% savings over traditional recruitment fees. As a result, the business continues to grow exponentially.
Founded on the premise of work-life balance, Duffy Group was among the first to innovate and lead an entirely remote workforce long before working from home became popular. “She has created an environment where her staff can thrive, and where collaboration, trust and transparent communication are bedrocks of success,” said her staff. “She knows that behind each job is a person, and she does everything possible to create a nurturing and entrepreneurial environment that helps her staff stretch their wings and grow in their positions.”
In the past year, Duffy has continued to lift up the next generation of titans. In addition to fostering an entrepreneurial environment for her team, she speaks regularly with business and economic development groups that derive the economic vitality of greater Phoenix. She works alongside the Greater Phoenix Economic Council and Arizona Commerce Authority to educate new and relocating companies about the region’s workforce and pipeline of talent.
In addition, Duffy mentors social entrepreneurs through Seed Spot, an incubator for those who are building a product, service or technology that makes the world a better place.
As a leader, she taps into the importance of communication, emotional intelligence, empathy and collaboration. “Being a collaborative leader starts by looking inward and cultivating humility,” said Duffy. “It can be a mindset shift because the essential ingredient is building trust with your peers.”
