How to Evaluate C-Suite Talent

bpe search Unveils Refreshed Brand Identity And Website

This month, bpe search is proud to unveil a new look and website, reflecting the significant evolution of our executive search business. Our growth over the last 17 years has seen us successfully place leadership roles across diverse industries and verticals throughout the UK & Europe, as well as expanding into the North American Consumer Industry. This extensive reach is powered by our team of specialist Directors and Practice Partners, each a deep industry expert in their respective fields, allowing us to deliver unparalleled real-time insight and connection. Our refreshed brand better embodies this expertise and our commitment to staying ahead in a constantly evolving market. While our focus has always been on delivering exceptional results, our refreshed and contemporary identity now truly reflects the broader and more expansive business we've become. We've invested time and care in redefining our strategic intent, not just revitalising our “look”. In emphasising our intent, we’re underlining how our service proposition has evolved and been enhanced over recent years to meet the needs of our clients. Many of our long-standing partnerships will recognise the breadth of offering bpe search provides, and feel that it reflects who we are today, a modern and forward-thinking partner. This new creative approach is modern, bold, and approachable, built to resonate with our refined brand values: Genuine: We build authentic, long-term relationships. Brave: We challenge convention because we care. Collaborative: Success is built together. Experts: Deep expertise, powerful networks. ​Paul Bendelow, bpe search Partner, says: "We are excited to unveil our new branding to our clients and our wider network. We're incredibly proud of the business we have built. We’re confident that our new brand identity better represents our ongoing commitment to connecting leaders, who will inspire the growth agendas of the organisations we are privileged to represent. and this new brand truly reflects the enormous value we offer. We must pay a huge tribute to Catherine Henderson, our fractional CMO, and Torita, our designer, for working so hard to create something that we're all really proud of." ​bpe search: Redefining Executive Search bpe search was created to redefine executive search in our specialist areas, delivering a more human, connected, and effective approach to leadership appointments. We work as a true talent partner and extension of your business, guiding organisations through critical leadership transitions with the care and rigour expected from a non-executive director. Our expertise in executive appointments gives us a unique perspective on the challenges that arise during organisational transformations, particularly in the context of mergers and acquisitions. We frequently engage with businesses during or after integration challenges have emerged, providing insights into what effective leadership looks like during these pivotal moments. Find out more About Us here ​​

The Silent Crisis: Avoiding Leadership Gaps in M&A Transitions

​​Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are pivotal moments in the lifecycle of any organisation. They promise growth, market expansion, and increased efficiencies. But while the spotlight often falls on financial forecasts and operational integration, there’s a quieter, more human challenge that can determine whether a deal thrives or falls flat: leadership gaps.Leadership attrition and inadequate succession planning are often overlooked, despite being among the most significant barriers to successful integration. Research indicates that up to 90% of M&A deals fail to deliver expected value and a major contributor is poor post-merger integration, especially in leadership and talent management. This article explores the root causes of leadership gaps during M&A transitions, highlights common pitfalls, and proposes proactive strategies for succession planning and talent retention.Why Leadership Gaps MatterWhen two organisations merge, the immediate focus often centres around financials, operational synergies, and regulatory concerns. However, integration on the human side—particularly at the leadership level—is equally, if not more, crucial.A study by McKinsey & Company found that the loss of key leaders significantly impedes the integration process and erodes deal value. The uncertainty triggered by M&A announcements can lead to an exodus of essential talent, individuals who carry institutional knowledge, strategic vision, and established internal networks.Key Risk Factors:Ambiguity in leadership roles post-integration.Uncertainty about reporting structures and job security.Cultural misalignment between merging entities.Lack of early communication and engagement with top performers.Failure to develop a leadership pipeline during transition.Five Pitfalls That Trigger Leadership GapsLeadership gaps don’t appear out of nowhere; they are often the predictable consequence of oversights and missteps during the transition. Here are some of the key pitfalls that cause leadership transitions to go off-track:Ignoring Succession Planning Until After the DealAll too often, companies wait until a deal is signed before they start thinking about who will lead the new organisation. By then, it may be too late as key individuals may have already made up their minds to leave. Proactive succession planning should begin well before any M&A activity to ensure continuity and stability.Failing to Assess Cultural FitOne of the biggest deal-breakers in M&A is cultural misalignment. Many firms skip culture assessments entirely, assuming they can figure it out later. The result? Disengaged leaders who feel out of place in the new structure. Assessing cultural fit early in the process can help identify potential conflicts and address them before they become problematic.Poor CommunicationSilence breeds speculation. When leaders aren’t kept in the loop—or worse, when they find out about changes through the grapevine—it undermines trust and encourages exits.Transparent and frequent communication is essential to keep leaders informed and engaged throughout the transition.Overlooking Integration ComplexityLeadership structures often shift dramatically post-merger. If responsibilities are unclear or overlaps emerge, high-performing leaders can become frustrated, underused, or entirely sidelined. Clear delineation of roles and responsibilities, along with a well-thought-out integration plan, can mitigate these issues.Lack of Retention FocusThe absence of targeted retention strategies is a major cause of leadership turnover. Without tangible reasons to stay, even loyal executives may look elsewhere. Implementing retention strategies, such as offering competitive incentives and career development opportunities, can help retain key leaders during and after the transition.Strategies for Proactive Succession PlanningTo mitigate the leadership risks in M&A transitions, organisations must adopt a forward-thinking approach to talent management—beginning before the ink is dry on the deal.Early Identification of Key TalentStart by mapping out individuals who hold critical roles across both organisations. Evaluate beyond titles—assess strategic thinking, influence, cross-functional collaboration, and cultural fit. According to Harvard Business Review, retaining top 10% performers from both entities improves integration success by over 25%.Dual-Sided Succession PlanningSuccession efforts should encompass both merging organisations. This ensures a balanced, inclusive approach that leverages strengths from both talent pools. Warren Averett suggests using a competency framework to align roles with future strategic needs.Transparent Communication and EngagementKeep leadership informed with clear messaging around the rationale for the merger, upcoming changes, and growth opportunities. Tailor communication styles based on audience—balancing formal announcements with informal town halls or small group sessions to drive trust.Accelerated Leadership DevelopmentFast-track high-potential leaders with targeted training and mentorship. Create cross-organisational mentorship pairs to build bridges, transfer knowledge, and establish a united leadership culture.Structured Retention StrategiesIncentivise loyalty. Introduce retention bonuses, restructured compensation packages, and clear promotion pathways to motivate leaders to stay. KPMG notes that firms offering structured retention plans experience 32% lower leadership turnover post-M&A.Contingency PlanningDespite best efforts, some attrition is inevitable. Establish interim leadership options and build a talent bench through internal and external networks to plug critical gaps quickly. Having a contingency plan in place ensures that the organisation can maintain stability and continue to operate smoothly during the transition.Case in Point: A Tale of Two MergersSuccessful Merger: A multinational tech firm integrated leadership across two merging divisions by identifying a “Top 50” talent list from each company. Through cross-functional projects and joint leadership development, they achieved a 95% leadership retention rate over 18 months.Failed Merger: A regional retail chain lost 40% of its senior leaders within the first year due to delayed succession planning and lack of cultural assimilation. The merger failed to achieve revenue targets and was later divested.Final ThoughtsLeadership attrition during M&A transitions is not an inevitable casualty; it is a risk that can be anticipated and mitigated. The most successful integrations are those that prioritise succession planning as early as the deal negotiation phase, invest in leadership development, and cultivate a shared vision for the future.By proactively identifying, developing, and retaining key talent, organisations can not only navigate the turbulence of transition but also emerge stronger, united, and positioned for long-term growth. In a business landscape where only 30% of M&A deals meet their financial targets, addressing the human element—specifically leadership—can make all the difference.Need support identifying and securing the right leaders during a business transition? At bpe search, we help companies navigate M&A change with tailored executive search and leadership solutions. Don’t wait until gaps appear — connect with us today and build your succession strategy with confidence. 

The Future of Corporate Governance: What C-suite Executives Need to Know.

​As the business world continues to evolve, often at pace, so too does corporate governance. Once seen as a set of rules for managing a company, corporate governance  has become a dynamic framework shaped by evolving regulations, shifting investor expectations, and increasing stakeholder demands. In the UK, these developments are particularly pertinent, with businesses facing growing pressure to adhere to stricter governance standards while simultaneously meeting the demands of an increasingly diverse group of interested parties.Staying ahead of these changes is essential for leaders in maintaining a company’s long-term reputation, financial health, and sustainability. Here, we’ll look into the evolving nature of corporate governance, what C-suite executives need to know about these changes, and the steps they should take to ensure their organisations remain compliant, resilient, and competitive.The Rise of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) ExpectationsIn recent years, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors have become central to corporate governance. Investors, regulators, and stakeholders are demanding that companies not only focus on financial performance but also demonstrate how they are addressing climate change, social responsibility, and good governance practices. This has led to a surge in the integration of ESG into corporate strategy and reporting.What you need to do:Incorporate ESG into corporate strategy: Ensure that ESG factors are part of your long-term business strategy. This means aligning corporate goals with environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and strong governance practices.Enhance transparency: Investors and stakeholders are increasingly demanding clear, measurable, and comparable ESG disclosures. C-suite leaders must ensure that ESG data is integrated into annual reports and communicated effectively to all stakeholders.Stay ahead of regulations: In the UK, the government has introduced measures such as the UK’s Green Finance Initiative and mandatory climate-related disclosures for large companies. C-suite executives must stay informed about evolving regulations and ensure that their organisations meet or exceed these requirements.An executive search partner can help identify senior leaders with the expertise to drive ESG initiatives and embed them within the company’s governance framework.Increased Scrutiny on Board Diversity and IndependenceInvestors and other stakeholders are placing more importance on board diversity and independence. A diverse board brings different perspectives, improving decision-making, and enhancing corporate resilience. Moreover, there is a growing expectation that boards should be composed of individuals who can challenge management and ensure strong governance.What you need to do:Focus on board diversity: Ensure that the board of directors reflects diverse perspectives, including gender, ethnicity, and experience. This not only fosters better decision-making but also demonstrates the company’s commitment to inclusivity and equality.Ensure independence: It’s essential for boards to have independent non-executive directors who can hold management to account. C-suite leaders should support the establishment of robust governance structures that promote independence and impartiality.Monitor board effectiveness: Conduct regular evaluations of board performance, ensuring that members are contributing effectively and that the governance structure is aligned with current best practices.Executive search partners can assist in identifying candidates for diverse and independent board positions, bringing in fresh perspectives that align with the company’s governance goals.Stronger Focus on Risk Management and CybersecurityThe rapidly changing business environment and increasing reliance on digital technology have heightened the need for robust risk management practices, particularly around cybersecurity. Regulatory bodies and investors are placing greater emphasis on how companies identify, manage, and mitigate risks, especially in areas such as cyber threats, data protection, and operational continuity.What you need to do:Enhance risk management frameworks: Establish clear frameworks for managing various types of risk, including financial, operational, and cyber risks. Ensure that risk management is embedded into the governance structure and regularly reviewed by the board.Focus on cybersecurity: Given the increasing threat of cyberattacks, C-suite leaders must prioritise cybersecurity, ensuring that adequate measures are in place to protect sensitive data and maintain business continuity.Report on risk management: Regularly update stakeholders on the company’s risk management practices, including any changes in risk exposure or mitigation strategies. This helps to build trust and demonstrate a proactive approach to governance.C-suite executives may want to work closely with an executive search partner to hire senior risk officers and cybersecurity experts who can guide these critical areas.Adapting to Changing Regulations and Compliance RequirementsThe regulatory environment for corporate governance is evolving rapidly. In the UK, recent reforms have introduced more stringent regulations regarding corporate transparency, executive remuneration, and shareholder rights. As the regulatory landscape becomes more complex, staying compliant will require C-suite leaders to continuously adapt their governance practices.What you need to do:Stay informed about regulatory changes: C-suite executives must stay up to date with the latest changes in corporate governance regulations, including those related to financial reporting, executive pay, and shareholder engagement.Ensure compliance with new standards: Implement systems to ensure compliance with UK regulations such as the Corporate Governance Code, the Companies (Directors’ Report) and the Financial Reporting Council’s guidelines.Engage with regulators and stakeholders: Establish open lines of communication with regulators, shareholders, and other stakeholders to ensure that the company’s governance practices align with their expectations and requirements.Working with an executive search partner can also be beneficial in identifying legal and compliance experts who can help navigate regulatory changes and keep the organisation in compliance.Shareholder Activism and Stakeholder EngagementShareholder activism is on the rise, with investors increasingly vocal about demanding change from the companies they invest in. This includes a call for more robust governance practices, greater financial transparency, and more inclusive decision-making. Stakeholders—ranging from investors to employees and customers—are placing higher demands on C-suite leaders to act in the best interests of all parties, not just shareholders.What you need to do:Engage with stakeholders regularly: Develop a strategy for consistent and transparent communication with shareholders, employees, and customers. C-suite leaders should be proactive in seeking feedback and addressing concerns.Embrace shareholder engagement: In response to activism, C-suite executives should foster a culture of responsiveness to shareholder concerns, ensuring that governance practices are continually aligned with shareholder expectations.Adopt a stakeholder-centric approach: Expand the focus beyond shareholders to consider the needs and interests of other stakeholders, including employees, customers, and communities. This broader view of governance is becoming increasingly important in today’s business world.C-suite leaders should seek support from an executive search partner to ensure that key leadership roles, particularly in communications, investor relations, and sustainability, are filled with individuals who can help manage stakeholder relationships effectively.The future of corporate governance is being shaped by evolving regulations, heightened stakeholder expectations, and the need for companies to remain agile in a rapidly changing business environment. For C-suite executives, staying ahead of these trends is not only essential for ensuring compliance but also for safeguarding the long-term success of the organisation. By focusing on ESG integration, enhancing board diversity, strengthening risk management frameworks, and staying informed about regulatory changes, C-suite leaders can create a governance structure that drives trust, resilience, and performance.An executive search partner plays a critical role in helping organisations align with these changes, providing expertise in identifying the right leaders to guide the company through this complex governance landscape. 

Building an Inclusive C-Suite: Driving Diversity in Leadership Roles

​​Business are rightfully recognising the value of diversity and inclusion (D&I) across all levels of their organisations and the C-suite stands as a crucial area where transformative change is both needed and impactful. Executive teams have the opportunity to set the tone for the rest of the organisation, influencing culture, decision-making, and business performance. A diverse and inclusive leadership team not only brings varied perspectives to the table but also drives innovation, reputation, and fosters a more engaged workforce. A sense of belonging, if you like.For C-suite leaders looking to create an inclusive executive team, the task is multifaceted. From identifying diverse talent to establishing inclusive leadership programmes, it requires both intentional strategy and ongoing commitment. ED&I cannot be a tick box exercise, it needs to be approached consciously and meaningfully and any shallow attempts otherwise will ultimately be evident. Here are some practical steps and advice for senior leaders aiming to drive diversity within their organisation:Identify and Remove Bias in Hiring and Promotion ProcessesOne of the most critical steps in building a more diverse C-suite is ensuring that the recruitment and promotion processes are free from unconscious bias. Bias, in most forms, will typically hinder the progress of underrepresented groups within leadership positions.How you can do this:Revise job descriptions to ensure they are inclusive, focusing on competencies and experience rather than traditional qualifications that may limit diverse candidates.Use structured interviews and skills-based assessments to reduce subjective bias in the selection process.Implement blind recruitment processes to avoid unconscious bias based on names, gender, or ethnicity.Engage with an executive search partner who have a proactive approach to EDI and how they look to lean into influencing diverse leadership and inclusivity within the C-suite.An executive search partner like bpe search can be instrumental in broadening the talent pool and identifying candidates from a range of backgrounds who may not be actively seeking roles but are highly qualified.Prioritise Diversity in Talent PipelinesTo foster diversity at the top, you must begin with a strong, diverse talent pipeline. This requires businesses to ensure it is not only in the C-suite but throughout the organisation, encouraging diverse leadership at every level.How you can do this:Develop a robust succession planning strategy that includes diverse internal candidates ready for C-suite roles.Mentorship and sponsorship programs can help to identify and nurture high-potential diverse leaders within the organisation, providing them with the support and opportunities they need to reach the top.Work with an executive search partner to ensure that succession planning actively involves identifying diverse candidates from other sectors or backgrounds, rather than relying solely on known or traditional networks that might overlook them.By actively cultivating a diverse pipeline, the pool of candidates for C-suite roles expands, increasing the likelihood of selecting a leader who reflects the values of inclusivity and diversity.Create an Inclusive Leadership Development ProgrammeCreating opportunities for emerging leaders to gain experience, training, and visibility is vital for fostering diversity in the C-suite. Leadership development programs should be inclusive, ensuring that they are accessible to all high-potential leaders, regardless of their background.How you can do this:Ensure that leadership development programs are designed to support diverse talent. This could include tailored training, exposure to key decision-making processes, and opportunities to lead strategic projects.Consider reverse mentoring, where senior leaders learn from diverse talent about their experiences and the challenges they face. This can help create empathy and inform more inclusive decision-making at the executive level.Develop diversity-focused initiatives that are explicitly tied to leadership development and organisational growth, such as partnering with organisations that promote diversity in leadership.bpe search can support in ensuring these programmes are designed with inclusivity in mind, helping organisations create leadership pipelines that reflect the diversity of today’s world.Embed Diversity and Inclusion in the Organisational CultureFor diversity and inclusion efforts to be sustainable and authentic, they must be embedded into the company’s culture. The C-suite plays a critical role in setting the tone and modeling inclusive behaviors that permeate throughout the organisation.How you can do this:Lead by example: C-suite leaders should openly communicate their commitment to diversity and inclusion and take action by consistently promoting and supporting diverse talent.Regularly measure and report on D&I metrics. Hold leadership accountable for progress on diversity goals, not just in recruitment but also in terms of retention, promotion, and overall inclusivity.Ensure that D&I is part of the leadership agenda, not as an afterthought but as a key component of business strategy. Discuss diversity at board meetings, in strategic reviews, and in company communications.An executive search partner can help assess the effectiveness of D&I initiatives by gathering data and providing insights on how diverse leaders are advancing within the organisation.Monitor, Measure, and AdaptAs with any strategy, it’s essential to monitor and measure progress continuously. Establish clear, measurable ED&I objectives and regularly evaluate them to ensure that diversity in leadership is growing and evolving.How you can do this:Set specific diversity goals for your leadership teams (e.g., gender balance, ethnic diversity, etc.), and measure progress against these goals.Conduct regular D&I audits to assess gaps in diversity, equity, and inclusion at the leadership level and across the organisation.Be open to feedback from diverse leaders and employees, listening to their experiences and addressing any barriers they may encounter in their career advancement.At bpe search, we can assist in conducting these audits, providing a detailed review of the diversity of your leadership team and identifying areas for improvement.Building a diverse and inclusive C-suite is not a one-time effort but a continuous journey that requires commitment, consciousness, and accountability. By identifying diverse talent, fostering an inclusive leadership development environment, and embedding diversity into the organisational culture, C-suite leaders can create lasting change. At bpe search, we know we must increasingly play a frontline role in supporting this process, from identifying diverse candidates to advising on best practices for inclusion.