Case Studies - Professional Services Firm No. 1
The problem
A rapidly growing national firm needed to identify and develop future leaders, and define strategies to manage growth without losing the family atmosphere that had made them successful.
The Grenell solution
The firm asked Grenell to assess two key employees under consideration for promotion to leadership positions. We conducted a series of face-to-face interviews and used business-oriented assessment instruments and did a 360° survey to determine the employees’ strengths and weaknesses. Based on the results, we worked with the CEO to produce a Leadership Development Plan for the two employees. We then worked with the individuals to implement and monitor the results of the plan.
The initial project identified the need for a management team within the firm. We worked with the CEO to identify the team members and plan a daylong advance. We facilitated the advance to identify focus areas and develop Action Plans to address short- and long-range needs. As a result, the management team gained a clear focus and a specific agenda for their work.
One division within the firm needed to staff up and was concerned about hiring the right people. Grenell used business-oriented assessment instruments with current employees to determine the talents, traits and characteristics critical to success in that division. We then developed a Job Profiling Benchmark System for evaluation of potential new hires.
We are currently completing a Leadership Development Process with the individual members of the firm’s management team. The process includes face-to-face interviews, assessment instruments and 360° surveys . As an outcome, each leader will develop an Action Plan to strengthen his/her leadership effectiveness. After acceptance of each plan by the CEO, we will conduct follow-up meetings with each leader to monitor implementation and modify the plans as necessary.
Grenell also serves as an advisor to the CEO and President. We are in the beginning stages of developing a Succession Plan in conjunction with the firm’s accountant, attorney and financial planner.
The results
- Implementation of an effective management team
- Realignment of job responsibilities to more effectively utilize the talents of key employees
- Increased performance from key employees
- Development of three new divisions for increased growth and success
