Head Performance Improvement and Value Creation at Smart Partners

Position Overview:

• We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Head of Department to lead our Performance Improvement Department (Value Creation). The ideal candidate will have over 15 years of industry experience, including significant time in management consulting, with experience at top-tier consulting firms. With deep expertise in strategy development, business transformation, organisational change, and turnaround management, this individual will drive strategic initiatives, execute transformative projects, and develop innovative solutions that enhance business performance and create long-term value. They will lead change management programs across diverse industries, ensuring seamless alignment with clients’ strategic goals.
• As Head of the Department, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the direction of our PIP practice. You will work closely with C-suite executives and lead a team of high-performing consultants and subject matter experts. You will be responsible for building and maintaining long-term client relationships, driving business development efforts, and ensuring that all engagements deliver exceptional results aligned with clients’ strategic goals.

Key Client Responsibilities:

Strategy Development & Execution:

• Lead the development and implementation of strategies that drive operational efficiencies, unlock value, and support growth. Develop actionable business plans with a focus on measurable outcomes and long-term value creation.

Business Transformation Leadership:

• Spearhead transformative projects, including organisational restructuring, digital transformation, and process optimisation. Guide clients through complex change initiatives, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives while maintaining operational continuity.

Value Creation:

• Identify opportunities for value creation through financial analysis, operational improvements, and strategic restructuring. Develop and execute tailored solutions to improve profitability, efficiency, and competitive position.

Change Management:

• Lead large-scale change initiatives using proven frameworks. Ensure smooth adoption of new strategies, processes, or technologies while minimising resistance and ensuring stakeholder buy-in.

Client Relationship Management:

• Build and maintain trusted advisory relationships with senior executives. Serve as a strategic partner to clients, providing ongoing support and guidance through their transformation journeys.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Mentor and develop a team of consultants, ensuring high-quality service delivery. Foster a collaborative, performance-driven culture within the Value Creation department.

Business Development & Networking:

• Identify and capitalise on new business opportunities. Leverage your extensive industry network to expand client relationships, win new engagements, and enhance reputation.

Key Qualifications and Skills:

Experience:

• Minimum of 15 years of experience in management consulting, including at least 5 years in a top-tier consulting firm. Proven track record in delivering value creation, strategy development, and business transformation projects.

Strategic Expertise:

• Proven experience in developing and executing high-impact strategies that lead to measurable financial and operational improvements.

Transformation Leadership:

• Extensive experience leading large-scale transformation projects, including digital transformation, operational restructuring, and change management.

Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving:

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to uncover hidden opportunities and devise innovative solutions. Experience in data-driven strategic decision-making.

Change Management Expertise:

• Demonstrated ability to guide organisations through complex changes, ensuring smooth transitions and effective stakeholder alignment.

Financial Acumen:

• Expertise in financial analysis, P&L management, cost reduction, and margin improvement, with the ability to tie recommendations to financial outcomes.

Leadership & Team Development:

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to lead and develop high-performing teams. Experience fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented culture.

Client Engagement:

• Ability to lead a client assignment from end to end. Exceptional client relationship management skills, with a proven ability to advise senior executives and guide critical business decisions. Ability to build long-term, trust-based client relationships.

Business Development:

• Demonstrated success in identifying and pursuing business development opportunities. Ability to leverage an extensive network to drive revenue growth.
• Communication & Presentation:
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex concepts clearly to diverse audiences, including C-level executives. Strong proposal writing and presentation abilities.

Industry Knowledge:

• Broad understanding of industry sectors relevant to the firm’s portfolio, with an ability to quickly grasp the unique dynamics and opportunities within client environments.

Education:

• An advanced degree (MBA, MPA, or equivalent) from a top-tier institution is preferred. Professional certifications in strategy, change management, or related fields are advantageous.