Matt Ballema specializes in material handling automation which includes both systems OEMs and system integrators as well as material handling equipment OEMs and dealer clients. Matt also specializes in placing top talent within the power generation/oil and gas markets where he mainly places rotating equipment sales, marketing, and engineering professionals. He has a passion for recruiting in the material handling automation space. With a background in material handling equipment sales, he understands the value and importance of every step in the supply chain that most of us take for granted. Matt has been in the executive search business for over 20 years, spanning all aspects of executive recruiting. Matt has placed professionals at all levels from general manager, president, chief operations officer, and VP level to regional sales managers, sales reps and engineers all across North America. Matt earned his bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies in social science with an emphasis in human resources and society from Michigan State University.
Michael’s focus at Pioneer Search Group is on the energy and material handling automation industries where he concentrates on placing a variety of roles. His sales background in the Solar PV industry has led him to approach recruiting with a customer service mindset and an emphasis on tailored solutions to client and candidate needs. Michael graduated from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor’s in International Business and a Master’s in Public Administration.
Ellen focuses on client and candidate development as well as sourcing and maintaining customer relations within the material handling automation industry. Ellen’s background in marketing and communications allows for maximum outreach and placement, all while tending to our clients’ wants and needs. Ellen graduated from Grand Valley State University with her B.S. in Integrative Studies which gives her the ability to combine multiple different disciplines to her everyday tasks that aid in her success, as well client happiness. In her free time, Ellen enjoys attending concerts, spending time outdoors, running, reading and traveling.
Marina specializes in sales and candidate development within the Material Handling Equipment and Oil & Gas industries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and possesses a valuable background in technology and marketing, which provides her with a unique communication approach. Marina is passionate about positively impacting people’s lives and helping companies grow by building strong teams.
Mia holds a Master’s Degree in Education from Sam Houston State University & a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Hannibal-LaGrange University. Mia joined Pioneer Search Group in 2024 as a seasoned Talent Acquisition & Executive Search consultant. Since entering the Executive Search space, she has applied her keen business acumen & sense of urgency to recruiting in the Material Handling, Industrial Manufacturing, Advanced Materials, Specialty Chemicals, Energy, Power & Utilities, ESG(S), Automotive, Banking & Finance, Real Estate, and Non-Profit sectors.
Mia’s hands-on experience in these areas provides a depth of commercial understanding that allows her to quickly understand her clients’ key business drivers and positions her to promptly help them build high-performance teams that will grow with the organization and help them accomplish their goals. Mia’s experience is valuable at any level of talent, from entry-level to key executive decision-makers. Mia prides herself on her effective listening skills as well as being focused on asking the right questions to ensure no time is wasted throughout the search process. Mia strives for the Win-Win-Win!
