Case Study |
Interim
Chief of Staff
for PE-backed
Digital Service

CLIENT

Mid-market
PE Firm

INDUSTRY

Consumer Service

CONSULTANT ROLE

Interim
Chief of Staff

LOCATION

France

The Challenge

Driving Strategic Initiatives for PE Portfolio Company

The client, a mid-market PE firm, wanted to drive strategic initiatives within one of its portfolio companies, a consumer digital service provider.

The CEO of the portfolio company was seeking an experienced strategy consultant to act as Interim Chief of Staff (CoS). The interim CoS would advise the leadership on strategic topics, such as nurturing high-potential employees, aligning talent development strategy with the growth strategy, and pursuing M&A opportunities in the digital services sector.

Role of Consultport

Consultport proposed 4 strong consultant profiles within 24 hours. The client interviewed 3 candidates and selected a former McKinsey Engagement Manager. The interim CoS started working with the client 72 hours after the initial request.

Approach

Comprehensive Assessment

To kickstart the Talent Development Program (TDP), one of the CEO’s key initiatives, the interim CoS conducted personal interviews with HR leaders, current employees, and relevant stakeholders to understand perspectives and expectations. The interim CoS also facilitated cross-functional workshops involving HR, department heads, and future program participants to align vision and goals.

Simultaneously, the interim CoS worked closely with the leadership team to align talent development initiatives with the company’s growth objectives and strategic priorities.

For the M&A topic, the interim CoS collaborated with internal teams to conduct thorough market research, identify gaps in the product portfolio, and develop an M&A strategy to address these gaps.

Solution

Collaborative Design of Initiatives

The interim CoS designed several initiatives to ensure successful implementation of the TDP. Working closely with HR and department heads, the interim CoS developed a competency framework with personalized career development plans, mentorship system and regular coaching sessions.

On the M&A front, the interim CoS established and implemented a structured due diligence process to evaluate acquisition opportunities.

Results

Talent Retention & Deal Generation

After the TDP was launched, the portfolio company saw improved retention among high-potential employees and successful development of future leaders. The strengthened talent pipeline allowed the client to fill several managerial positions internally.

For the M&A project, the PE firm is now in talks for a potential deal with a strategic partner, with the interim CoS continuing to play a pivotal role between internal teams and external investors.