In Memory of Sid Kotlus: A true legend in our industry
This week, we mourn the loss of a remarkable man, Sid Kotlus, a colleague, mentor, and friend who leaves behind an indelible legacy in the staffing and recruiting world of New England.
| “Sid wasn’t just part of our company—he was part of the very fabric of staffing in New England. If you worked in this industry, you knew Sid. And if you ever took a job in New Hampshire, there’s a good chance he quietly helped shape that opportunity.” — Sean Dowling, President,KBW Financial Staffing & Recruiting |
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How Sid Came to KBW — As Told by the Partners
Our story with Sid began long before he officially joined KBW Financial Staffing & Recruiting. We first met him through a local networking group we had all joined. Technically, Sid was a competitor, but he never acted like one. Instead, he became a mentor during the earliest days of our business. He offered guidance, advice, and encouragement with no agenda, no conditions, and no expectation of anything in return. That was Sid—generous even in a competitive arena.
Years later, Sid approached us about joining KBW Financial Staffing & Recruiting, and we were thrilled. The original plan was simple: a six-month transition where Sid would personally introduce us to his clients and help integrate relationships.
But as those six months came to a close, something became very clear: Sid wasn’t ready to step away. He realized how much he loved reconnecting with his customers and how much he enjoyed working with our team. What began as an acquisition and handoff became something far more meaningful: Sid became part of KBW. It was unplanned, unexpected, and one of the greatest additions we could have imagined. We were honored to be part of his career and his life.
A Master Storyteller
One of the best things about Sid was that he was a master of storytelling. It’s one of the many reasons everyone loved him. When he introduced you to a candidate or client, it was never just a name; there was always a story. He’d share how he knew them, how many times he’d placed them, where their careers took them, and often, how he ended up placing their children, too.
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His legendary tales would start like this: “I first placed Jim back in 1976… then I placed him three more times… then I placed his son as a Controller. And now Jim just sent me his son, who’s graduating from college—so we’re on our third generation with this family!” |
That was Sid. He didn’t just build a network; he built generations.
More Than a Co-Worker
When you joined this business, Sid made you feel like you belonged. He welcomed you with open arms, offered guidance without hesitation, and invested in your success both professionally and personally. He was more than a co-worker; he was a champion; quick with an introduction, generous with advice, and always ready with a story.
Sid had a way of knowing everything about life—the best place to eat, how to winterize a boat, and the right travel schedule to Mexico. You could ask Sid anything, and he’d have a detailed answer, often with a story from decades ago and a lesson tucked inside.
A Legacy That Lives On
We’ll all remember the little things: his check-in calls, his weekend plans, his love for family and friends, and of course, the way he’d roll into company events in his sports car – smiling, charismatic, and full of life.
Sid Kotlus will be deeply missed. But more importantly, he will be remembered. Through the careers he shaped, the stories he told, the generations he helped, and the countless lives he touched with his generosity, wit, and wisdom.
Rest in Peace, Sid.
We were all better for knowing you.
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For those who wish to read more about Sid’s life and legacy, his obituary can be found here.
