Case Study: Head of Strategy for a UK Holding Group

Introduction
We were hired to appoint a Head of Strategy and Innovation for a diversified UK holding group. The brief was to find a leader who could set group strategy, unlock portfolio synergies and build a repeatable innovation engine that delivers measurable growth. After networks and advertising failed, we ran an executive search and delivered a robust evidence‑led shortlist.

The challenge

• Secure a Head of Strategy and Innovation with a strong blend of corporate strategy, growth and innovation leadership.
• Operate in a multi‑business holding context; align group and business‑unit plans while protecting autonomy.
• Partner with the CEO, Board and BU leaders; challenge constructively and influence decisions.
• Establish a strategy cadence: 3–5 year plan, annual refresh, OKRs and portfolio reviews tied to capital allocation.
• Stand up an innovation model: venture pipeline, incubation/acceleration, open innovation and strategic partnerships; assess whether to build a CVC capability.
• Drive inorganic growth: partnerships, JVs and selective M&A; ensure integration and value capture.
• Define metrics: percent of revenue from new offerings, pipeline NPV, time‑to‑value, ROIC/TSR contribution and synergy delivery.
• High visibility across UK sites with regular travel to portfolio companies and key partners.

Our approach

• Calibrated the mandate and success profile with the CEO and Board, linked to the value creation plan.
• Mapped target talent pools: FTSE250 and PE‑backed diversified groups, industrials and business services, corporate venture/innovation labs, and top‑tier strategy consulting alumni in the UK and near‑Europe.
• Engaged high‑performing Heads of Strategy, Group Strategy Directors and Innovation/Venture leaders with proven delivery.
• Used a consistent evidence‑led scorecard with psychometrics and scenario panels. Protected confidentiality throughout.

The result

• Delivered an excellent shortlist within five weeks; offer accepted in seven.
• The appointed Head of Strategy and Innovation combined top‑tier consulting experience with in‑house group strategy and venture‑building success.
• Early outcomes included an agreed three‑year strategy and value plan, a quarterly portfolio review cadence, five prioritised growth themes, a venture studio launch, two strategic partnerships signed and initial cross‑portfolio procurement synergies. OKRs embedded and governance strengthened.

Why it worked

• Headhunting reached high‑performing passive candidates across strategy and innovation ecosystems.
• A clear mandate and structured assessment built confidence for both client and candidates.
• Tight timelines and Board sponsorship kept momentum from shortlist to offer.

Contact us
If you are hiring a Head of Strategy and Innovation we can help.
Call 0207 160 6996
Email info@executiveheadhunters.co.uk
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