Alex Rawlings speaks with Nigel Green on why private equity firms struggle with organic growth and how better hiring, faster execution, and customer focus can unlock value.⏱️ Timestamps & Key Takeaways00:00 – Introduction Nigel’s background and advisory focus00:29 – Career Highlights Two successful exits before 30 Now advising PE-backed companies on growth 01:34 – Biggest PE Mistake Weak commercial operators Overvaluing experience vs. current fit 03:05 – Growth Challenges Delayed action on underperformance Lack of urgency from investors 05:42 – Hiring Better Leaders Avoid “black book” hires Focus on Character, Chemistry, Competency Hire people with urgency and something to prove 08:35 – Go-To-Market Strategy Get close to customers early Avoid internal-only focus 10:29 – The Real Competitor Most deals are lost to “doing nothing” Solve customer inertia, not just competition 12:56 – Interviewing Sales Leaders Conversations aren’t enough Require candidates to demonstrate ability 14:38 – Attracting Top Talent Best candidates aren’t applying Sell the opportunity with honesty and realism De-risk the move 23:06 – Driving Growth Small tweaks > big overhauls Retention often a bigger issue than pipeline 26:41 – Proactive Sales Remove friction in buying Simplify and speed up decisions 30:06 – Great Operating Partners Must still be operators Help leaders make tough decisions 34:29 – Final Advice Consume less, execute more 🔑 Key Themes Hire for drive over experience Focus on execution and speed Growth comes from action, not analysisRaw Selection partners with Private Equity firms and their portfolio companies to secure exceptional executive talent. We focus on de-risking executive recruitment through meticulous search and selection processes, ensuring top-tier performance and long-term success.🔗 Connect with Alex Rawlings on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexrawlings/ 🌐 Visit Raw Selection www.raw-selection.comLooking to grow your team? Check out our Hiring Guidesfor proven strategies, templates, and best practices to make smarter hires.
