Getting it Right
Diverse women-run team builds “ideal” model for success
Ideal Due Diligence
For over two decades, Amanda Caldwell worked in-house as a code researcher for firms in the architecture industry, coordinating complex permitting processes for clients across the country. As her confidence in her area of expertise grew, she had a revelation. She identified a gap in her industry that she knew she could fill, and an opportunity to create a business that could provide her with the flexibility needed to fulfill both her professional and personal dreams.
During her time as a code researcher, Caldwell’s clients would often employ expeditors to speed the process of obtaining their permits. Over time, she became disappointed in the expeditors’ lack of detail and communication. She found that her passion for clients and projects meant, in many instances, that she took on all of the work involved in securing permits.
“A few of my clients would mention that I should just work for myself,” says Caldwell, but for years she felt as though it wasn’t the right time. It wasn’t until a particularly enthusiastic retail client showered her with praise for her excellent work that she became convinced she was ready to take the leap and launch her own business. “That client really admired my contribution and gave me the confidence to realize that I could build a business based on my talent and expertise and be a success,” she says.
Caldwell decided that her business would be run on a flexible schedule, allowing her and her husband the freedom to realize a personal dream that they both shared: to adopt older children out of the foster care system who were in need of a loving family.
This flexible model of work became a way of life for Caldwell, who launched her Cincinnati-based permit services business, Ideal Due Diligence, near the end of 2014. Her first clients were past associates or former employers. Before long, demand for her expertise and high-quality client service practices outpaced the capacity of one person. To her benefit, Caldwell’s flexible working model became a useful recruitment tool, attracting other women who shared her desire to work hard while maintaining a fulfilling family life outside of work.
Ideal Due Diligence
The Ideal Due Diligence team prides itself on upfront code research and due diligence for the permit acquisition process. With a broad client base, the company assists architectural firms, general and trade contractors, retailers, restaurant owners and developers in applying for and obtaining all permits needed for construction projects to start on time.
Along with that work comes a range of related services, including obtaining property owner approvals, assisting with licenses and registrations, and advising on all information needed to ensure that document sets are reviewed promptly by permitting jurisdictions. Each project involves unique challenges and is governed by a strict timeline. By driving and maintaining project schedules, Ideal Due Diligence allows its clients—architects, engineers, contractors and project teams—to focus on their roles without the huge worry of obtaining permissions. “We often joke that we do the grunt work that no one wants or has time for in their schedule,” says Caldwell.
Working with a network of associates and consultants nationwide has made the team adept at adjusting to different processes and expert at dealing with permitting agency regulations that differ in every city, county and state. This profound ability to adapt and be responsive is also reflected in the company’s approach to client services, as each job is individualized to suit the particular client’s needs.
“We have tremendous team spirit. We believe in each other and support one another; we know we’re working toward a common goal.” Amanda Caldwell, Founder, Ideal Due Diligence
A Diverse Range of Skill Sets
Caldwell’s 22-year career in the field gave her the skills to deal with the demands of this fast-paced, detail- oriented and multidimensional work. When it came to growing her team, she hired a group of women with a wide range of backgrounds and skills.
Her first recruits were Stephanie Bonar Gamble and Jennifer Roth, both interior designers whom Caldwell had worked with previously at an architectural firm. Gamble holds National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) and LEED AP certifications.
Kerri Hoffmeier was next to join the company, taking on the role of Office Director. Her background in psychology, sales, marketing and customer service allows her to carefully listen to, understand and deliver on client needs and expectations. Hoffmeier is also the mother of four young children. As a result, she deeply values Caldwell’s flexible approach to scheduling.
“We all have families and lives outside of work, so we work when our schedules allow,” says Hoffmeier. “Sometimes that means working early, late or from home. But we work to get things done.” She explains that team members share a mutual commitment to exceed client needs and always to meet project deadlines.
Next to come on board was Project Coordinator, Stephanie Smith. Formerly a criminal researcher, Smith’s strengths in detailed research and planning helped her bridge into a career at Ideal Due Diligence. But it was her previous job as a cosmetologist that Smith credits with strengthening her ability to develop relationships with people of various personalities and backgrounds.
The diversity of the team has proven to be an enormous asset; its members’ broad range of skills and perspectives have helped the company to innovate. As a regular practice, the team comes together to discuss new processes to improve efficiency, accuracy and client relations.
“I and all of my coworkers wear many hats,” says Smith. “We have weekly project meetings, which means that, when a client calls, we are all aware of what’s going on and can help with any questions.” This ensures that clients never have to wait for an answer.
This ability to depend on each other and work collaboratively is an essential part of the company’s DNA. The success of the business relies on team members’ shared accountability and the trust that exists between them.
“We have tremendous team spirit,” comments Caldwell. “We believe in each other and support one another; we know we’re working toward a common goal.”
A Bright Future
The success of the Ideal Due Diligence business model has meant that the company is well positioned to grow. In the future, Caldwell plans to open additional offices in other states and to expand the business to include interior design services.
Caldwell is also committed to giving back to the community as the company matures. Recently, Ideal Due Diligence was a corporate sponsor for a charity event in Cincinnati called Vivian’s Victory, a nonprofit dedicated to providing support, programs and resources to parents with sick children.
As the company evolves, the genuine, long-lasting relationships between Caldwell and the rest of the team, the company’s clients, and the wider community will remain.
“Amanda genuinely cares about all of us,” says Smith. “All of the people I work with aren’t just co-workers. They’re lifelong friends.”