Moon on a stick? Coming right up!

Moon on a Stick? Coming Right Up

Finding the perfect CEO in the corporate world is increasingly becoming a mission that requires more creativity than it does financial resources. The recent controversy surrounding Starbucks' new CEO deciding to commute by private jet has sparked a broader conversation about the extreme lengths companies must go to attract top-tier talent. Such perks may appear excessive, the reality is that, in today’s competitive market, securing the right leader often demands thinking outside the box—or sometimes, above the clouds. Finding these candidates is only half the battle: convincing them to join in the backdrop of ever mounting pressure from stakeholders (customers, activist shareholders, politicians and the media) is where the real challenge lies.

The Changing Landscape of Executive Recruitment

The phrase “moon on a stick” has long been used to describe an unattainable desire—a request so extravagant it seems impossible. Yet in the world of executive search, what once seemed inaccessible is now within reach for those who have the right resources, connections, and a touch of audacity. The demand for … let's call them "supermoon" candidates—those rare individuals who possess the perfect blend of experience, agility and vision—is higher than ever. Commercial, competitive and experienced individuals who make continually tough decisions and balance this with being a good corporate citizen is a high demand with more scrutiny now than ever. Crucially, companies must consider the tension between talent and brand reputation when making these decisions.?

The Reality of Executive Perks

A fundamental truth about today’s executive landscape is that the best candidates often come with high expectations. The pandemic has shone a spotlight across all levels at the importance of mental health and what we all require to be functioning, rational and successful humans. These perks are not just about luxury; they are about providing the tools and the environment top talent needs to succeed at this altitude. CEOs are expected to navigate unprecedented levels of uncertainty and ambiguity, offering the moon on a stick—in whatever the outlandish form it takes can be the difference between landing a "supermoon" candidate or losing them to a rival.

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The Search for the "Supermoon" Candidate

The recruitment of CEOs and top executives is never easy, but it has become exponentially more difficult recently. Average executive tenures including the CEO is decreasing, the global business environment is more complex, and expectations placed on leaders are higher. They must be capable of steering companies through turbulent times, balancing growth with sustainability, and fostering a culture that aligns with modern values such as ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance).

Balancing Risk and Reward

Critics may argue that offering such perks sets a dangerous precedent, but let’s consider their broader impact. A strong CEO or executive can drive growth, create jobs, and foster a culture that positively impacts employees, customers, and communities alike. The right leader can steer a company toward sustainable success, which will ripple out, creating opportunities and driving economic growth.

Time to hire is taking longer and the pool of genuinely strong CEOs is shrinking, it’s essential to focus on capability over current experience. The best candidates today are those with the ability to navigate considerable ambiguity, who are agile enough to pivot when necessary, and who possess the vision to see beyond the immediate challenges to the opportunities ahead.? The ‘best’ candidates controversially may not actually be the ready-made, been there done that CEO – they could not be the celestial body that simply by being present gravitationally pulls shares up and stakeholders in, but instead a riskier option (in perception only) who creates bespoke success long-term for the business over adapting a ready-made playbook.? This brave option doesn’t necessarily long for a private jet but instead just the opportunity to shine.?

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Conclusion

When clients demand the moon on a stick, they need to understand that those "supermoons" are out there—but securing them requires creativity, resourcefulness, and sometimes, a private jet. For companies without a private jet budget, the key is to think outside the box and focus on what truly matters: finding a leader with the capability, agility, and vision to drive the company forward. Choose the right partner to identify not just the obvious choices but trust them to do the hard graft to uncover the right choice. After all, growth means more jobs, and more jobs are good for everyone. It's time to start talking about the benefits that these bold decisions can bring. Go big or be brave – even better, do both (diversity and innovation demands it).