Gaines International, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Allen Austin, announced that Shadin Maali has returned as principal for the firm’s Chicago office. Maali will co-lead the regional office with Donna Gaines, founder of Gaines International and managing partner for Allen Austin. Gaines International is an executive search and recruiting firm serving the architecture, interior design, engineering, construction and real estate development industries.
“I am pleased to welcome Shadin back to Gaines International in a new leadership capacity,” said Gaines. “Her work ethic, intuitive sense for understanding the goals and passions of others and ability to match organizations to the most advantageous candidates, will make her an asset to both our firm and clients as we execute searches globally.”
In her new role as principal and co-leader, Maali will implement and execute a purpose-driven approach to guide and empower employers and employees to make the best possible hiring decisions for long-term career growth and personal fulfillment. She will co-lead the searches for the firm’s A/E/C clients both domestically and internationally, as well as oversee business development and marketing for the firm’s Chicago offices.
“Shadin’s experience in the education, healthcare and not-for-profit market sectors have given her invaluable knowledge and insights into unique and distinct work environments and the cultural diversity that exist across all organizations,” said Rob Andrews, chairman and CEO of Allen Austin. “She values building relationships and connecting people to help fulfill mutually beneficial needs, which synergistically aligns with the personal, relationship-driven mission and values at Allen Austin and Gaines International.”
Early in her career, Maali was the research manager for Gaines International, managing the firm’s databases and generating analytical reports on industry trends. She then took time to raise her children and manage her family’s dental specialty practice. A graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, Maali is an active volunteer with the Children’s Relief Fund and the Family Social Services Agency.
“It is with great pleasure that I return to Gaines International and work alongside my lifelong mentor, Donna Gaines,” said Maali. “I am drawn to changing lives for the better, to building healthy and lifelong working relationships that foster a creative and productive work environment and the retained search industry affords just such an opportunity.”
