An operations recruiter.

About Exceptional Talent Group

Helping organizations make stronger hiring decisions.

Exceptional Talent Group (ETG) helps growing companies identify, evaluate, and hire talent across Human Resources, People Operations, Operations, and other business-critical roles. Founded by Hilani Ellis, the firm combines a track record of more than 215 successful placements with a high-touch approach focused on helping organizations make stronger hiring decisions and build exceptional teams.

ETG’s hiring approach has helped generate a business built almost entirely through referrals, with 98% of engagements originating from client and professional recommendations. We believe exceptional teams are built through thoughtful hiring decisions, not simply candidate volume.


Client Reviews

  • "We initially partnered with Hilani and her team to hire an Executive Assistant for the CEO of our scaling aerospace startup. The experience and results led us to engage her again for a People and Operations executive search. Having previously worked with Korn Ferry, I can confidently say her approach operates at the same level of professionalism, thoughtfulness, and service."

    — Brooke T - CFO, XTI Aerospace

  • "I met Hilani in 2017 via a trusted resource. She came highly recommended for my executive assistant search. As the founder of a growing tech company, my hiring needs have evolved. I found myself returning to work with Hilani because of her process and advisement. I used her for a marketing hire and later on a Director of People and Culture. Her process is thorough and very thoughtful. I would highly recommend."

    — Garrett K. - Founder and CEO, OneClick

  • "Hilani was highly recommended to me by a business partner. He used her search services and knew the type of experience and support she offered. I was in the market for a Director of Operations to run my busy, and growing, medical practice. She was diligent in learning about my needs and those of the company. Her vetting process was very impressive. She not only found talent, but talent that would fit the business today and as we grow. I'm constantly endorsing her to all my friends."

    — Dr. Aaron Kovaleski, MD, ECCO Medical

  • "Our CEO heard about Hilani and her team via his YPO group. He was in the market for an executive assistant. After working with Hilani, we engaged her for an Human Resources Business Partner to help me grow my team. Her proces is thorough and well organized. She keep us informed every step of the way. I didn't have to worry about the search, which gave me the freedom to focus on the growing business."

    — Amanda Alvarez, VP of Human Resources, Haselden Construction

  • "We learned about Hilani and her team via our business network. Our CEO was looking for an executive assistant. When we learned about her vetting process, we engaged her for a second search, Human Resources Business Partner. This was a need on my team. She was attentive, thoughtful, and thorough. She gave us a lot of trust that our hiring need would be well taken care of with her spearheading the searches. Would highly recommend."

    — Carla Varnold, VP of Human Resources, Grand Peak Property Management

  • "We've partnered with Hilani and her team on multiple searches over the years, and each experience has reinforced why we continue to come back. Finding great talent is one thing; finding people who truly fit an organization is something entirely different. The professionals we've hired through Exceptional Admins have consistently strengthened our team and supported both our growth and the quality of service we deliver. Hilani's perspective on the talent market and organizational growth has continued to be a valuable resource even after the hire as we invest in our people."

    – Sam W. - Director of Operations, Kurtz Fargo


Our Perspective

Hiring Is More Than Filling a Position

A hiring recruiter for an operations hire.

Organizations rarely struggle to understand the importance of talent. The challenge is identifying the individuals who can contribute beyond the job description and create long-term value. That's why our approach focuses on evaluation, fit, and decision quality—not simply sourcing candidates.


Because Hiring Decisions Matter

Working with a recruiter.

The future of hiring will likely involve more technology, not less. We believe organizations will benefit most when efficiency is balanced with thoughtful human evaluation. Technology can help process information. Determining how someone will contribute to a team, navigate challenges, and create value over time still requires judgment.


Our Family of Brands

Exceptional Talent Group operates under Exceptional Executives, LLC and is part of a family of recruiting brands, including Exceptional Admins.

While Exceptional Talent Group focuses on Human Resources, People Operations, Operations, and professional hiring, Exceptional Admins specializes in executive support and administrative recruiting.

This structure allows us to bring focused expertise to each search while maintaining a shared commitment to thoughtful evaluation and exceptional client service.


Get In Touch

If you're interested in working with us, feel free to schedule a discovery call.