Who We Are
The BradfordLee, LLC approach to executive search combines our respective experience. Murray Lee started in a contingent firm and elevated to retained search a few years later. This broad experience enables him to deliver comprehensive advice to clients. With a business-owner’s background, Karen Bradford understands the pressures that founders feel. Familiar with the concerns over making good business decisions, she knows what it feels like to be in their shoes. Their collective experience provides the basis for their expertise, which clients and candidates can rely on equally.
In addition, their level of approachability is unique and defined by integrity, privacy, respect, and high communication standards. It is this composite of soft skills that differentiates BradfordLee, LLC from other executive search firms. Every client is served by both Murray and Karen!
Murray Lee
Managing Partner
I’ve been in the executive search industry since 2001 and have worked in all types and sizes of firms. I started in one of the international conglomerates, was a partner in a regional firm, and owned a boutique practice.”
In 2004, I founded Next Exec, Inc. Karen Bradford joined soon thereafter. Over the next 15 years, we built a small team and honed our search process.
In 2020, we were approached by a professional services firm to merge into their practice. Accepting that opportunity made it possible for us to serve larger clients and new industry sectors over the next five years. Merging firms was the right decision at the right time and we gained significant additional industry experience.
In 2025, we made the decision to close that chapter and go independent again launching BradfordLee, LLC!
Karen Bradford
Managing Partner
I approach executive search by focusing on having a deep understanding of the client’s position, setting BradfordLee, LLC apart from most search firms.
My philosophy is rooted in my experience as a business owner. Previously, I founded a handbag manufacturing company. à la main produced, wholesaled, and retailed accessory products for 15 years and the business flourished with sales reps across the United States. This extensive experience allows me to intuitively understand and empathize with the challenges companies face as they strive to hire talented executives.
My ability to relate to business owners distinguishes me from other search consultants. My goal is to help clients to focus on what they do best and sleep well at night by ensuring a trusted and successful hiring process. This unique perspective allows me to put myself in their shoes!
Leveraging over 45 years of combined experience, our core business is serving small and middle-market companies and nonprofit organizations across a wide range of industries.
Real People, Real Results
Quality Over Quantity
We limit the number of searches we work on to make each client a priority.
