Why Leadership Appointments Deserve a Strategic Approach. 

25 Years in Recruitment Has Taught Me This. 

After 25 years recruiting within the environmental and sustainability sector, one lesson stands out: 

Clarity at the beginning determines success at the end. 

Yet when organisations need to appoint a senior leader, the approach is often reactive. 

Tap the network
Brief a few agencies
Move quickly
Compare fees

It feels efficient

But leadership hiring is not a speed exercise, it's a business critical decision that shapes culture, performance and long term direction.

In my experience the real work happens before a single CV is shared.

It means:

• Defining what the business truly needs, not simply replacing what it had
• Challenging assumptions about the “ideal” profile
• Aligning stakeholders around shared priorities
• Mapping the full market, not just active candidates
• Controlling the narrative to protect brand and reputation

When that groundwork is done properly everything else becomes clearer. The shortlist is stronger. The interviews are sharper. The final decision is made with conviction.

Relying solely on familiar networks limits visibility.
Using a volume recruiter often limits depth.

A strategic partnership creates structure, insight and alignment.

Recently, I worked with a consultancy navigating a sensitive senior leadership transition following acquisition. The process required discretion, pace and careful stakeholder management. The outcome was secured in under six weeks, with full market mapping and alignment built in from day one.

If you are considering a key leadership hire this year, or even just thinking about succession planning, it is worth having the conversation early.

The right preparation reduces risk.
The right partner protects your brand.
The right hire shapes your future.

Feel free to message me if you would like to explore how to approach it strategically.

JM Pic

Written by:
Jeremy Money
Director, JSM Associates

I have worked within the Environmental and Sustainability sector for 20 years, making me one of the most established and well connected networkers in the market.

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