This study explored the superintendent hiring process in Texas. Participating school board presidents were part of a target population who used search consultants and hired a superintendent during 2011. Using survey research methods, data were collected from 17 school board presidents. The Superintendent Profile survey was used to measure how school board presidents rated 41 characteristics of successful superintendents. The data were analyzed to determine if there were differences based on the school district's size, the gender of the new superintendent, and the ethnicity of the new superintendent. The findings of the study were that school board presidents prefer that their superintendents demonstrate integrity, honest, and fairness. Additionally, board presidents want superintendents to foster a positive professional climate of mutual trust and respect among faculty, staff, and administrators. Board presidents were less likely to expect their superintendent to serve as the district's instructional leader or to concentrate on managerial duties. Results of the study identified recommendations for school boards, search consultants, prospective superintendent candidates, and superintendent preparation programs. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]