The Touchline Coach

A Fellow MD Swears by Professional Facilitation for Strategy—Should You?

I have had numerous conversations with both PE and non-PE management teams. On one side, I often hear, “We are PE-owned, so we need to act in the best interests of the PE firm.” On the other, there’s the sentiment, “We don’t act like a PE firm because we are privately owned, so we’re not ruthless.” While I recognise the feelings behind both perspectives, the reality is simple: the primary purpose of any business is to make a profit and ensure long-term viability. When the chips are down, both ownership structures ultimately pursue the same goal. The main difference is that PE firms tend to be more decisive and upfront about the purpose of the business, leaving no room for indecision, a quality that can be crucial in turbulent times. In challenging times, many managing directors of privately owned companies tend to misinterpret private equity tactics, assuming they’re aggressive and unsympathetic. However, a closer look shows that PE firms aren’t out to dismantle businesses; rather, they focus on the same essential priorities you value: maintaining operational stability, preserving cash flow, and ensuring long-term sustainability. This article examines how private equity firms respond during downturns and outlines practical lessons that MDs can adopt to bolster their own turnaround strategies.

Times are tough for UK PLC right now, and many business leaders find themselves on the front lines of a relentless battle against economic pressure, negativity, and stress. As a professional Interim who specialises in stressed and distressed businesses, I thought I’d share some insights on how I cope and, more importantly, how leaders can maintain their effectiveness under intense strain. As business leaders, we are constantly buffeted by external forces, market shifts, financial pressures, regulatory changes, and social uncertainties that inevitably impact performance. Maintaining a positive mindset isn’t just a personal luxury; it’s a fundamental necessity for business success. And yet, despite the all-time high in mental health challenges, social media is flooded with advice from influencers about how an ice bath or a change in perspective will solve everything. They may not be entirely wrong; different things work for different people, but as Mike Tyson famously put it:?“Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.”

Read our latest Leadership article - Why Some Leaders break and Others Thrive in Uncertainty. https://lnkd.in/e_vWAAtj

An interesting look at our work over the past couple of months - a common theme - Performance Improvement.

?? Never Stop Learning, Never Stop Innovating ?? ?? Honda’s commitment to lifelong learning and adaptability drove his groundbreaking innovations. ?? What new skills are you currently developing? Share your journey! ?? Discover Honda’s lessons on innovation here: https://lnkd.in/ew847riD

?? Lead with Passion, Like Soichiro Honda ?? Soichiro Honda believed true progress stems from a deep love for one’s work. ?? How does passion influence your leadership style? Let us know! ?? Learn more about Honda's philosophy: https://lnkd.in/ew847riD

?? "Success is 99% failure." – Soichiro Honda ?? ?? Honda’s relentless pursuit of perfection shows us the power of viewing failure as a learning opportunity. ? How do you turn setbacks into opportunities? Share your thoughts below! ?? Read more here: https://lnkd.in/ew847riD