At IMS, we believe our people are our greatest asset. In honor of our incredible team, we are thrilled to go “beyond the bio” and share the personal stories of employees across our organization.
IMS researchers and recruiters work collaboratively to help connect law firm and corporate clients with the precise subject matter expertise they need. In their roles on our Expert Witness Services team, Jackie Santonocito and Jennifer Weinrich “Operate as One” to deliver “Quality & Excellence” in every expert search. Read on to learn how Jackie and Jennifer found IMS and what they enjoy most about their work with clients, colleagues, and experts.
Jackie Santonocito, Researcher
Q: How did you get into this industry?
A: While searching for an out-of-the-ordinary research position, I stumbled into the trial consulting field. Initially focusing on jury research and trial graphics, I was immediately intrigued by the industry and nature of the work.
Q: Why did you choose IMS?
A: I was attracted to IMS’ Expert Witness Services department, as that was a part of this industry that was new to me. The structure of the research position and culture of the company were particularly appealing to me, but the interview and training processes confirmed my decision.
Q: What do you like most about your specific department and/or role?
A: Each new case brings an entirely different subject matter, which naturally, as a researcher, is a part of the fun. There is no cookie-cutter approach to any case we deal with. I really enjoy the collaboration among our teams as we are faced with new subject areas. We adapt to these challenges and rely on each other’s skill sets to locate, vet, and deliver the best expert candidates.
Q: What internal accomplishment are you most proud of?
A: Most recently, the IMS Expert Witness Services department achieved its all-time placement record in the month of March. It was a really great team accomplishment and shows the continued strength and strategic growth of the EWS department and our leadership.
Q: Are there any memories you’d like to share?
A: Aside from the camaraderie with colleagues, my favorite memories are the little ones in between that I do not have to miss out on with my family. The balance and ease of transition between work and family obligations is a true testament to IMS’ supportive culture.
Q: What do you think sets IMS apart from competitors or other companies?
A: Undoubtedly, it’s the customized support and flexibility that IMS provides to both clients and employees. We meet clients at any stage of the litigation process and jump right in; whether to prepare strategies years in advance or for a fast-approaching deadline, we are ready to cater to individual case needs. For employees, IMS shows support and encouragement to develop and grow, all while fostering a work-life balance. It is clear at IMS that a little flexibility goes a long way.
Q: How do the IMS core values align with your own?
A: “Quality & Excellence” and “Operate as One” align most with my values. We are only able to provide the best quality of services to our clients by putting forth our best effort daily while relying on each other and operating as a team.
Q: If you were an attorney-client or expert witness, what would you find most valuable about the process at IMS?
A: It’s the collaboration and streamlined process of our expert witness search. Each project is assigned a team from the start, with each member having a very specific purpose. What sets IMS apart is the collaboration between team members to make sure every aspect of the case is covered from start to finish.
Q: Do you have any predictions or comments on industry trends?
A: With the recent shift and acceptance of remote capabilities globally, we have started seeing an increase in the number of international cases. The recent technological advancements in litigation have opened the door—and ease of access—to international consultants and partnerships. Whether national or international, our research department is continuously searching for new experts in emerging fields to stay ahead of the curve.
Q: What has been your favorite case to work on so far?
A: Always the next one—I enjoy learning new subject matters, searching for that needle in the haystack, and anything with an urgent turnaround.
Jennifer Weinrich, Recruiting Consultant
Q: Why did you get into this industry?
A: I was attracted to this industry based on what I am passionate about: connecting/communicating with people, providing excellent client/customer service, working as a team, problem-solving, and a fast-paced work environment.
Q: How did you find IMS?
A: My friend and former colleague Sarah Poland introduced me to IMS and helped me connect with hiring managers to start the interview process.
Q: What do you like most about your specific role?
A: I like collaborating with the researcher, client relationship manager, and associate recruiter to try and find the best expert witnesses for our clients. From the start, the environment on our recruiting team has been positive and productive, with everyone having the mindset that we always support each other.
Q: What internal accomplishment are you most proud of?
A: I am most proud of the opportunities when I’ve been able to step in and help my team by taking some pressure off them when they are out of the office.
Q: Are there any stories you’d like to share?
A: I have already established life-long friendships during my short time with IMS, and I feel fulfilled that I am impactful in my day-to-day accomplishments.
Q: What do you think sets IMS apart from competitors or other companies?
A: What sets IMS apart, especially when making decisions and considering future opportunities, is our focus on doing the right thing, problem-solving to fix hurdles when they arise, and exceeding client expectations.
Q: How do the IMS core values align with your own?
A: The core values of IMS were the first things I reviewed when I did my research about our company. Having “Humble Confidence” and providing “Quality & Excellence” is how I approach every aspect/interaction/goal in my personal life. “Operating as One” is also crucial in the business world to provide a product (intangible or not) to the customer with the overall big picture always top of mind.
Q: If you were an attorney-client or expert witness, what would you find most valuable about the process at IMS?
A: We provide a clear and detailed picture of how the process works from start to finish while always reminding the expert and attorney-client that we are here to assist if outside-the-box situations arise.
Q: What has been your favorite case to work on so far?
A: Being true crime/Dateline obsessed, my favorite so far was searching for defamation and toxicology experts for a serial killer case. The story behind it is now a TV series that I’ve enjoyed watching.
Learn More
We are grateful to have Jackie and Jennifer on the IMS Expert Witness Services team and sincerely appreciate their thoughtful responses in this month’s employee spotlight.
Visit the links below to meet the IMS team and read more about our culture and career opportunity.