*Companies that have leading digital and AI capabilities outperform laggards by two to six times on total shareholder returns (TSR) across every sector analysed.
— Source: McKinsey.com
Here's how
I run end-to-end search projects for Data, AI or Tech leadership hires.
It’s typically called Executive Search. I define it as analysing what success looks like for the business, then finding the leader who will deliver it.
I use my OM-WISER framework to guarantee results.
Data is the new oil. Your Data Leader chooses where the fuel is gathered, how it’s applied, and whether it’s safe. Getting this hire wrong is like putting diesel in a petrol car.
Typical Roles I Hire For: Chief Data Officer (CDO), Head of Data, Director of Data & Analytics, VP of Data Strategy, Head of Data Engineering, etc.
AI has been described as a dominant technology, like the Ford Motor Car. AI can enhance business but carries risk. Gartner reports that up to 85% of AI projects fail pre- or post-deployment. The right leadership is critical.
Typical Roles I Hire For: Chief AI Officer (CAIO), Chief Scientific Officer (CSO), VP of AI/ML, Director of AI, Head of Data Science, etc.
Tech is the foundation of most organisations today. It runs through nearly every business function and is the difference between a company working as a well-oiled machine or grinding to a halt.
Typical Roles I Hire For: Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Chief Information Officer (CIO), Director of Engineering, Head/VP of IT/Technology, etc.
Companies that have leading digital and AI capabilities outperform laggards by two to six times on total shareholder returns (TSR) across every sector analysed.
Think of a pyramid with Data, AI, and Tech at each corner. That’s what I call the Triumvirate. All three functions acting as a force multiplier for each other and the business.
I only take on two projects at any one time.
If you aren’t ready to invest into your hiring process, then I’m not the recruiter for you.
I’ve spent the last seven years in recruitment. I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t. I also know the impact that AI is having (and will have) on the industry. That’s why I’m doubling down on quality-driven, high-touch services with Talos.
I’m fascinated by Data, AI and Tech, but I’m particularly obsessed with the conjunction of strategic optimisation and people. Placing the right leader into a business and watching them transform and optimise how that company operates is my proverbial drug.
From what I’ve seen, the industry is facing issues, such as the CDO’s average tenure of just 2 to 2.5 years. I believe this is due to a lack of analysis/understanding when crafting the role. My OM-WISER framework solves this.
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Poor data quality costs organisations an average of $12.9 million annually. Beyond lost revenue, it complicates data systems and drives poor decision-making over time.
The first step is implementing my OM-WISER diagnostic framework. Using Qualitative Research methods, I conduct a comprehensive deep dive of the organisation and its people to fully inform what a successful (DAIT) Leader means to the business. This is the bedrock of the entire search.
I collect all the outputs and data from implementing OM-WISER and produce a report that defines things like the success metrics and impact profile of the role. This report informs what profile of Leader is needed as well as the search strategy and assessment process.
Passive search strategies don’t secure the best hires in today’s market, especially in leadership searches. Targeted Headhunting, informed by analysis (in my case, OM-WISER), is what secures the best talent, alongside other outreach strategies.
After longlisting a group of profiles that fit the brief produced by OM-WISER, I get to work refining it into a shortlist, ready for interviewing. This includes CV deep-dives, impact analysis and references, to produce candidate reports with every piece of information you’ll need.
Once the shortlist is complete, I assist the internal team in crafting a tailored interview process that assesses against the metrics identified in the OM-WISER diagnosis and, put simply, leaves you with the best person for the job. All while maintaining a quality candidate experience and preserving your company’s reputation.
I’m giving away the basics of my methodology so more companies can hire strategically.
To avoid overwhelming you, I’ve broken it down into 7 daily emails.
“Eric listened and carefully creating a bespoke approach using his understanding of the data industry, providing insights into the current trends and innovations in the data world.
He has been meticulous in fine tuning the details to maximise the potential outcome.”
Adrian Smith
Data Strategy Leader
