by Stanley H. Davis and Kelley R. Small
While the economic landscape is much more positive than it was 10 years ago, there is continued uncertainty. For some, uncertainty can lead to a tendency to stay with what you know especially if that discussion is focused around the leadership of the company. That argument has some merit, given the levels of expertise and specific knowledge these people are expected to provide. One possible way to innovate and develop fresh ideas is by opening your company’s search for a new executive to other industries.
In fact, by limiting consideration to candidates with the perceived “right” industry experience, you’re putting your company at a disadvantage. These individuals have already learned or lent that experience at a competitor. By bringing him or her into your company you will simply be duplicating something that’s already been done and is already in place somewhere else. That will do next to nothing to help your company differentiate itself.
Business leaders who are charged with the search for a new executive would do well to consider whether they want to hire someone for the business they currently have, or for the business they’re committed to become. If it’s the latter, then here are some additional things to keep in mind:
One challenge of an improved economy is a natural increase in the demand for talent across the spectrum. Add to this the continuing wave of Baby Boomers reaching retirement age and it’s easy to see why the talent pool is shallow. Business owners, executives, and boards should remember that recruitment is not a singular event, but rather a continuous process. Whenever you happen across exceptional talent, either hire them or track them to know where they are when you need them. Additionally, companies should stay focused on developing and re-recruiting the talented people already in place to keep them relevant and retained.
Mark Hurd, the CEO of Oracle, once said, “Great leadership is transferable across industries.” Business leaders do well to take his words to heart, and remember that the right leader for your company may very well be in an industry other than your own. Whether a most recent executive has moved on to another opportunity, or your company has outgrown its current leadership, embarking on an executive search can yield a variety of positive outcomes. A courageous, insightful and timely response will greatly increase the likelihood of your company’s continuing success.
Stanley Davis and Kelley Small are principals of Standish Executive Search LLC, the executive search advisors to mid-size and smaller companies positioning for accelerated growth, change or succession. For more information, please visit www.standishsearch.com.
From tradition to transformation Sequoia Brass & Copper has stood for excellence in American manufacturing. In this episode, we sit down with Kim MacFarlane, President of Sequoia Brass & Copper, to hear the inspiring story of a family-owned company founded by her father, built on craftsmanship, trust, and a relentless commitment to quality. Kim shares how she’s guided the company through the challenges of modern industry while honoring its heritage, and how the next chapter will be carried forward by her son Kyle. This is more than a story of brass and copper; it’s about resilience, innovation, and the enduring strength of family legacy. If you’ve ever wondered how tradition can meet the demands of today’s industry hit play and be inspired.