JILL SCHECTER on How Good Gets Done
Written by: MICHELE GRAHAM
Photography By CHICHI UBIÑA
Styled by WITHLEY VERDINER & SAKS FIFTH AVENUE GREENWICH
Hair & Makeup by PIRRI HAIR STUDIO
If you want something done, give it to someone who is busy. Jill Schecter has been busy since she was 16 years old when she landed her first job. Her professional resume is dotted with well-recognized brand names: Vanity Fair, Condé Nast, Estee Lauder, Rolling Stone and Sassy. Today, as CEO and Founder of Target Search Group recruiting firm, a “redefined” executive search firm in New York City, Jill is a whirl of constant motion professionally and in her philanthropy. Her common thread: advocating, supporting, and engaging people.
Since moving to Greenwich 17 years ago with her husband to raise their family, Jill has created an imprint with her volunteering. “There are many amazing charities in our area and I admire those individuals and friends who donate their time and resources to these causes. I feel it’s important to give back and ‘pay it forward’.”Jill’s involvement is a symphony of causes. The Schecters provide financial support and help serve meals at Pacific House, the men’s shelter in Stamford. Children of Fallen Patriots, which provides college scholarships and educational counseling to military children who have lost a parent in the line of duty, is very important to the family. Matt’s close college friend is the Assistant Chief of Staff and Commanding Officer in the Naval Air Force. “We truly appreciate those who have served or are currently in service,” says Jill.
On the cultural spectrum, Jill has been in involved in the Greenwich International Film Festival (GIFF) since its inception and is on the Host Committee. Jill’s introduction came through her good friend Ginger Stickel, GIFF’s Chief Operating Officer. Jill’s involvement also includes health-based non-profits. “Unfortunately, I have many friends, family, and even my sister, who have suffered the effects of breast cancer; some of whom lost their battle with the disease. I am grateful for those organizations behind early detection and awareness,” says Jill. She has become a strong supporter of the Breast Cancer Alliance (BCA) and the organization’s ongoing efforts to fund research, and support early detection, treatment and a cure. Jill has also seen the devastating impact of Alzheimer’s on family members. “I am passionate about the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter. I like that the Chapter is the primary source of information and support for thousands of Connecticut residents dealing with the effects of Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia.” The Chapter has influenced public policy changes and has provided support to dementia research in the hope of finding a cure. Jill is both an advocate and supporter, and a close friend to one of the board members.While she is busy with her professional life, Jill says, “I not only like to support those charities I am passionate about, but I also like to be an advocate and supporter of organizations my friends are interested in.”
I think coming together as a community and being there for your friends and others is an important part of life and a truly rewarding experience.
