A prominent Canadian infrastructure fund undertook a strategic initiative to revitalise the Board of one of their major European portfolio companies, which held significant equity stakes in a number of international airports. Their objective was to attract talent from diverse industries beyond their own sector, prompting them to conduct a global search.
Several challenges were identified, including a perceived lack of Digital and Sustainability expertise at the Board level, as well as the desire for diverse perspectives. With a renewed commitment to sustainability, the fund aimed to incorporate this focus into their hiring approach.
In our pursuit to reinvigorating and strengthening the Board, we conducted an extensive global Search that extended beyond the traditional industry boundaries. Our objective was to attract candidates who could bring fresh perspectives and experiences to support the client’s Board ambitions. We carefully curated a unified Shortlist, consisting of two distinct populations: individuals with strong digital expertise and candidates with significant backgrounds in sustainability.
A primary objective of this Search was to secure a candidate capable of strengthening the portfolio company’s reputation and investment appeal. We guided the top candidates through a comprehensive and rigorous selection process, addressing some initial scepticism and resistance. Our understanding of the role’s intrinsic opportunities allowed us to confidently convey the genuine commitment to sustainability both within the company itself and more broadly the fund.
Our Search delivered an exceptionally diverse Shortlist, made up of three candidates with robust digital backgrounds and three with notable sustainability expertise. These individuals were sourced from various industries, including technology, FMCG, retail, manufacturing, transportation, and financial services, and represented geographic locations across North America, the UK, and Europe.
Following a thorough assessment, one of Europe’s leading sustainability executives was appointed to the role. This marked her inaugural non-executive director (NED) position, and her presence has been transformative for the Board. She has played a pivotal role in enhancing the Board’s understanding of digital and sustainability matters.
