LK

Lee Kester

Active Member at VentureSouth

Greenville, South Carolina

Overview 

Lee Kester is the CEO and Founder of Kester Search Group, LLC, specializing in executive search and commercial expansions across various industries including dental, diagnostics, devices, oncology, and software. With a background in strategic sourcing and business development, Lee has successfully established a reputation for expertise in talent acquisition and sales effectiveness, contributing to the growth and success of numerous organizations. Highlights of Lee's career include founding Kester Search Group, LLC, focusing on executive search and commercial expansions, and serving as an active member of VentureSouth, investing in various stages and sectors to support the growth of emerging companies.

Work Experience 

  • CEO & Founder

    2013 - Current

    Kester Search Group exists to improve lives, build great companies, and drive innovation. We take a consultative approach to talent acquisition by truly partnering with our clients to fully understand their goals, culture, and personnel needs. Kester Search Group is focused on permanent placement recruiting in Diagnostics, Oncology, Genetics, Dental/DSO's, Biotech, Life Sciences, Healthcare Providers, Healthcare AI, Technology, SaaS, and Medical Device/Equipment. Our three distinct Practice areas include: Executive Search - Our Retained Executive Search Practice provides expert guidance for complex healthcare executive searches, delivering top-tier talent through a personalized and efficient approach. Professional Search - Kester Search Group's consultative approach and deep understanding of your company culture ensure the right fit for middle to upper-level management and strategic hires. Commercial Expansions - The leading search firm for fast-growing healthcare companies, specializing in building commercial teams and delivering high-quality candidates efficiently. With over 1,500+ placements in the healthcare industry, 55+ years of combined healthcare recruiting experience, and a 95% client retention rate, our team is more than equipped to assist as you build out your team. Visit our website to learn more www.kestersearch.com and follow us to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and industry news as well as job postings!

  • Active Member

    2017

    VentureSouth is an early-stage venture capital firm that develops and manages angel investment groups and funds throughout the Southeast with an emphasis on innovative Healthcare, Technology, and Software companies in rapid growth mode. Our network of 500+ members have invested nearly $80 million into 70+ companies since 2008, making it one of the largest angel investment organizations in the United States as well as being named a Top 10 Angel Group in North America. https://venturesouth.vc/ VentureSouth's mission is to "Make Money. Have Fun. Do Good"

VentureSouth is an early stage venture firm that operates angel groups and funds.

  • Sr. Manager/Executive Recruiter

    2008 - 2013

    System 1 Search has assisted over 400 clients to fill vital roles in their organizations. Our clients range from Fortune 50 to early stage start-ups in the healthcare industry. Thirty-five years of recruiting in the medical device and diagnostic industries has earned us the respect of a diverse group of hiring managers. System 1 Search has made over 5,000 placements. * President Club & Rookie of the Year Winner * Trained & Mentored back to back Rookie of the Year Winners * Placed 150+ individuals with titles such as Vice President of Sales, Area Vice President, National Sales Manager, Director of Sales, Marketing Director, Regional Sales Manager, & Outside Sales Rep * Top producer at System 1 Search YTD 3/2013 at time of resignation Partnered with medical device, diagnostic, and dental companies to help recruit and retain the very best talent available in a given geography during a specific time period.

  • Campus Ambassador

    2005 - 2007

    Managed the Visitor Center information desk, handling all walk-in and telephone inquiries for a center that welcomes over 25,000 guests per year. Directed prospective students and their families around historic North Campus & the town of Athens on an hour long guided tour.

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