Executive search plays a critical role in helping organisations, whether startups or established companies, find the right leadership to guide them to success. However, the approach to executive search can differ significantly between these two types of organisations. At JacksonGrant Executive, we offer premier executive search services in Thailand, providing tailored strategies that meet the unique needs of both startups and established companies. In this article, we explore the key differences in executive search for startups versus established firms, and why a specialized approach is essential to secure the right leadership.

Understanding the Unique Needs of Startups and Established Companies

Startups and established companies operate in vastly different environments, each with its own set of challenges and opportunities. These distinctions also reflect the type of leadership each company requires, which in turn influences how executive search is conducted.

1. Startups: Agile and Growth-Focused

Startups typically operate in a fast-paced and rapidly changing environment. They are often focused on innovation, growth, and the ability to pivot quickly when necessary. For these organisations, the right leader is one who can navigate uncertainty, build teams from the ground up, and often wear multiple hats. A KPMG study on startup leadership (KPMG, 2018). The Changing Role of the Startup Leader) found that adaptability and a visionary approach are the most sought-after traits for startup executives.

2. Established Companies: Stability and Scale

In contrast, established companies are generally more stable, with defined processes and established teams. For these organisations, the emphasis is often on maintaining operational efficiency, scaling the business, and driving incremental growth. Executive search for established companies tends to focus on leaders with experience in optimising operations, managing large teams, and executing long-term strategies. A Deloitte report on corporate leadership (2022) Leadership in Established Companies: A Focus on Stability and Scale) highlights that established companies tend to favour executives who bring experience and a track record of success in similar roles.

Key Differences in Executive Search for Startups and Established Companies

While both startups and established companies aim to secure high-calibre leadership, the strategies employed by executive search agencies like JacksonGrante Executive differ considerably based on the type of organisation.

Candidate Profile: Risk-Taker vs. Risk-Manager

Startups often seek candidates who are comfortable with risk, uncertainty, and rapid change. These leaders are typically entrepreneurial, innovative, and willing to challenge the status quo. A successful startup executive needs to thrive in environments where there is often little structure, and be able to navigate the unknown.

Conversely, established companies tend to look for candidates who are skilled at managing risk rather than embracing it. These executives are more likely to focus on refining and executing existing strategies, driving efficiency, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the business.

Leadership Style: Visionary vs. Operational

In a startup, visionary leadership is essential. Executives need to inspire the team, often with limited resources, and be able to pivot quickly as market conditions change. They should be capable of creating and executing a long-term vision while maintaining flexibility to seize new opportunities.

In an established company, the focus is more on operational leadership. Executives are expected to drive performance and maintain consistency across large-scale operations. They should be capable of implementing well-structured plans, managing teams efficiently, and leveraging existing resources to maximise performance.

Experience: Generalists vs. Specialists

Given the dynamic nature of startups, they tend to seek out "generalists" who are capable of overseeing multiple functions. Startups need leaders who can handle everything from fundraising and product development to marketing and recruitment. They require a hands-on approach, as early-stage companies often lack the resources to hire leaders for each department.

On the other hand, established companies tend to look for "specialists" with deep expertise in specific areas, whether it's operations, finance, marketing, or product development. These leaders are expected to bring a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in a particular field, often with a focus on optimising processes and driving large teams.

The JacksonGrant Approach: Tailoring Executive Search for Different Needs

At JacksonGrant Executive, we recognise that executive search for startups is fundamentally different from that of established companies. Our specialised approach is designed to meet the unique needs of each organisation type, ensuring that the right leaders are placed to drive success.

1. For Startups: Finding Leaders Who Thrive in Uncertainty

Startups require a distinct approach to executive search. At JacksonGrant, we focus on identifying entrepreneurial-minded leaders who are comfortable in fast-paced, high-growth environments. Our search process includes:

• Identifying adaptability and versatility: We seek out candidates who have a proven track record of successfully navigating ambiguity and change.

• Emphasising cultural fit: Given the close-knit nature of startup teams, cultural alignment is crucial. We ensure candidates share the startup’s vision and values.

• Prioritising leadership potential: We look for candidates with the potential to grow alongside the company, as the demands on leadership evolve with the organisation’s growth.

A CB Insights report on startup failure (CB Insights. (2020). The Top 20 Reasons Startups Fail) revealed that 23% of startups fail due to a lack of the right team. By focusing on versatile and visionary leaders, we help startups avoid this pitfall, positioning them for long-term success.

For Established Companies: Sourcing Experienced Leaders for Scale

Established companies often have specific, well-defined leadership needs. JacksonGrant’s executive search for these organisations focuses on finding experienced leaders who can scale existing operations and drive sustained growth. Our process includes:

• Targeting industry expertise: We focus on candidates with a proven track record of success in similar industries, ensuring they have the operational know-how to manage large-scale teams and processes.

• Emphasising stability and long-term growth: Candidates for established companies need to be adept at navigating complex organisations and executing long-term strategies.

• Leveraging existing networks: With our vast network of contacts in Thailand and across Asia, we can tap into a deep pool of experienced executives who are ready to take on leadership roles in established organisations.

Executive Search in Thailand: Local Insights and Global Expertise

The executive search landscape in Thailand offers unique challenges and opportunities. While Thailand is often perceived as a "one-race" country, it is also a regional hub for multinational corporations and startups alike, which means there is a growing demand for diverse leadership talent.

According to a LinkedIn report on talent trends in Asia-Pacific LinkedIn (2023) Asia-Pacific Talent Trends Report), executive demand in Thailand has risen sharply, particularly in high-growth sectors like technology, finance, and manufacturing. For both startups and established companies, accessing top leadership talent in this competitive market requires a deep understanding of local and regional dynamics.

At JacksonGrant, our executive search services are designed to help organisations in Thailand navigate these complexities. Our expertise spans multiple industries, and we are uniquely positioned to find the right leaders, whether for a fast-moving startup or a well-established corporation.

Tailored Executive Search for Every Organisation

Whether you’re a startup looking for a visionary leader to drive innovation and growth, or an established company seeking an operational expert to scale your business, the right leadership is essential. At JacksonGrant Executive, we understand that different organisations have different needs, and our executive search services are tailored to meet those needs.

By leveraging our deep expertise in the Thai market and our extensive network of contacts across Asia-Pacific, we can help you find the leaders who will drive your organisation forward. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can assist you.