Top 5 Attributes of Winning Leadership Teams

I need a highly capable leader to lead my science/medical/ technology/clinical/digital health/life sciences company; how do I start, and what do I need to do next?

I have a saying, “Common sense is not so common,” – so what is natural for some is not easily accomplished for others. Hiring special technical leadership, or as I call them, Unicorns takes a special skill few possess. It is difficult to make a critical C-Suite or VP hire and to get them to stick. A recent HBS study showed that 40% of C-Suite/ VP hires fail in their first year. How do you improve the odds that your person will both perform and stay?

Using an executive search consultant can improve your odds – by up to 97%. How do we do it?

Well, first of all, we have interviewed thousands of senior executives. We know talent when we see it. First, we look for leadership capabilities: language, self-awareness, the ability to create followership, and we measure for character and integrity – you know, the stuff your parents told you about but you never thought was so important ( and definitely not relevant to your generation). How do you ask?

First, we have seen a wide variety of talent and can immediately identify who is a top performer and who is not.

Here are the steps we use to identify and evaluate the attributes of top C-Suite talent and bring you the best leader available. These people, if the role is a good fit for them, will outperform your expectations –

1. Expertise and Relevant Skills: Look for candidates with a strong foundation of knowledge and skills in their respective fields. They should have the necessary expertise and technical abilities to excel in the specific role they are being considered for.

2. Adaptability and Learning Agility: The business landscape is constantly evolving, so it's crucial to identify candidates who demonstrate adaptability and a willingness to learn. Look for individuals who can quickly adapt to new situations, learn from their experiences, and proactively seek opportunities for growth and development.

3. Strong Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Skills: Hire individuals with excellent problem-solving abilities and can critically analyze complex situations. Look for candidates who can identify root causes, evaluate various options, and make informed decisions based on available information.

4. Leadership: Look for individuals who can inspire and influence others, collaborate effectively in teams, and take initiative to drive positive change within the organization.

5. Cultural Fit and Alignment with Company Values: Hiring people who align with the company's culture and values is crucial for long-term success. Look for candidates who demonstrate integrity, ethical behavior, and a passion for the company's mission. Assess whether their work style and personality align with team dynamics and corporate culture.