Insights for CHROs and HR Directors in the Agri-Food Sector In the agri-food sector, plant and supply chain leaders form the operational backbone of organizations. They ensure that raw materials move efficiently and safely from farm to factory to consumer or retailer—while meeting strict standards for quality, food safety, and sustainability. A Highly Dynamic [...]
Sustainability is no longer something that sits next to the business strategy — it is the strategy. Nowhere is that clearer than in the agri-food world. Pressure from regulators, consumers, investors and supply-chain partners is rising fast. Companies are being held accountable for their environmental footprint, social responsibility and transparency. Ten years ago, sustainability [...]
Whenever I speak with directors in the agri-food sector, one thing always strikes me: almost everyone feels the pace of change speeding up. Recently, I sat with the director of a mid-sized food company in his office garden. Coffee on the table, folders pushed aside. “Wilko,” he said, “it feels like everything is changing [...]
Anyone who thinks the biggest changes in the agri-food sector are happening in production lines, robotics or high-tech greenhouses is missing the real story. The true revolution is unfolding in the boardroom where companies decide who will lead a sector under extraordinary pressure: climate change, unstable supply chains, shifting consumer behavior and a global [...]
The agri-food sector is facing growing scrutiny when it comes to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. From reducing greenhouse gas emissions to ensuring fair labor practices and creating transparent supply chains — ESG is no longer a side issue. It’s a strategic priority, and it calls for strong leadership at the highest levels [...]
Expectations of CEOs in private equity-backed companies are evolving rapidly. Where firms once focused primarily on operational efficiency and cost control, they now increasingly seek leaders who can drive strategic transformation — often under considerable time pressure. In a world shaped by digital disruption, geopolitical instability, and persistent talent shortages, the modern PE-backed CEO [...]
Among all C-suite hires in private equity-backed companies, the Chief Financial Officer remains the most critical, especially in the early post-acquisition phase. While the CEO sets the direction, it’s often the CFO who determines whether the company can maintain momentum and meet investor expectations. 90 Days to Clarity and Control From the first 90 [...]
The role of the Operating Partner (OP) has changed a lot in recent years. In the past, OPs mostly focused on general management tasks or stepped in as interim CEOs. Today, more and more private equity firms are building teams with functional specialists. These experts help improve specific parts of the business and play [...]
In private equity, time is money — especially when it comes to hiring leadership. Traditional executive searches often take 90 to 120 days. But after a new deal or leadership change, most PE-backed companies simply can’t afford to wait that long. The Risk of Hiring Still, there’s a clear trade-off. Moving too fast increases [...]
Family businesses play a vital role in the global economy, shaped by legacy and long-term values. Balancing these traditions with professional leadership is not always easy. Executive search helps identify leaders who both respect family heritage and bring the vision, skills, and innovation needed for growth. The Importance of Legacy A family name often [...]
