Why Executive Talent?

We work in a world where businesses are being forced to do more with less.

Whilst the Australian economy is showing good early signs of recovery, the pressure to keep costs under control, whilst finding new strategies to grow, will continue to be one of the key priorities for Boards and Chief Executives.

Australian management needs to think laterally as we move cautiously to the next period of growth.

As markets improve we will return to the talent shortages witnessed prior to the GFC and businesses again will be competing to find the best available talent. Both listed and private companies must continue to look at the way they engage senior resources with the experience to take their businesses forward and to captialise on what we hope will be a sustained growth period.

Finding the right executives is still difficult. Down sizing has lead to a brain drain and a lack of experience in many industries, with skills gaps in key areas.

Buying in senior talent on more flexible terms is an effective way of investing in the future opportunities without over gearing.

The bad news is that scores of senior executives who have recently been moved out of businesses have now moved on.

The good news is that many experienced senior level executives are now available on a consulting or part-time basis. For many organisations the advantages of drawing on the skills of these executives are clear. They are in effect, a flexible part of the workforce which can be utilised at will. They incur no permanent hiring costs, are motivated and accountable, work to tight briefs, and deliver what they are required to deliver.

In our experience, many companies are genuinely surprised at the availability of senior executives to consult on specific projects - from former CEO's to CFO's, HR Directors, Marketing Directors, project managers and executives who are experienced in business strategy, turnarounds, growth strategies and cost reduction programs.

While the economic outlook ahead looks volatile, what is certain is that business will increasingly need to utilise senior, experienced talent to steer them through the new challenges. Whether they need to fill a gap or take advantage of opportunities, we believe the trend of engaging senior talent through consulting, contracting or advisory roles will only increase.

Traditional search companies do not cater to the changing needs of a high proportion of the available executive talent pool, and the organisations who need their experience and skills.

At Hattonneale we recognise the need for a new approach when it comes to attracting, selecting, developing and retaining the best executives.