Working with over 500 of the world’s top private equity firms gives us insight into what the industry is focusing on. Every quarter our team analyzes the projects we work on with our PE fund clients to get a bird’s eye view of the market. We analyze behaviors across the large variety of clients that […]
What makes a what are the elements of value for a company? Its people? Definitely. Its products? Absolutely. Its patents? Very likely. But these are the obvious, high-level answers for anyone with a rudimentary understanding of how business (and the economy) works. But it’s the more nuanced elements of value that can make or break […]
The 5 Key Ingredients To Building A Thriving Business
During my 20 years in private equity in New York, I learned quite a few lessons about what makes a thriving business and its people tick — for better or for worse. Some are driven by dollars and cents; some are motivated by a people-first philosophy that puts human beings at the center of decision-making. […]
Tools and techniques to love this February and beyond
Where would we be as solutions-focused experts without a few favorite tools and techniques we can depend on, even during the most challenging engagements and ever-shifting workplace environments? With the lightning speed of innovation these days, not to mention skill sets required to stay on course, this month I wanted to share a few ideas—in […]
The year of specialized work and continued recalibration
What better way to kick off 2021 than with some age-old wisdom from the most outstanding figure in medicine, Hippocrates: “Persons in whom a crisis takes place pass the night preceding the paroxysm (spasm) uncomfortably, but the succeeding night generally more comfortably.” In other words, if last year was the “uncomfortable paroxysm” then this year should […]
In 2021 Focus on Healthy Communication, Collaboration, and Inclusivity
Despite all the uncertainty and disruption still lingering from last year, 2021 offers ample opportunities for companies to refocus on what matters most: healthy communication and collaboration, an inclusive workplace culture, and ultimately greater productivity. While companies need to understand what will be different in the post-COVID era, they should also remember what will stay […]
How Pandemic-Era Managers Can Level Up By Using Collaboration Tools
Effective managers are capable of articulating their company’s values and a clear set of concrete goals, while also maintaining a commitment to diversity and open communication. These principles will help companies move from a rigidly hierarchical dynamic in which workers feel disconnected from their jobs to one in which they feel like stakeholders and partners […]
BluWave Insights: How the Agile Workforce is Impacting the Economy
Many hiring managers report that they face a talent shortage, which is why the agile workforce – independent professionals hired on a project-by-project basis – is only going to become more critical in the coming years. In my first article for Toolbox HR, a new platform for executives to learn about everything from cybersecurity trends to […]
Finding specialized executive search firms is an area PE funds often seek our assistance, because instead of spending countless hours trying to find the right fit we can quickly match the funds with a series of vetted candidates. So, when our PE fund client acquired a founder-owned business that provides services to the niche power […]
The COVID-19 pandemic won’t last forever, and companies need to be thinking about how to best position themselves to not only maintain their operations, but also seize upon opportunities and prepare for an uncertain future. This means they’ll have to be agile, getting the right people with the right skills at the right time. Our […]
OODA Loop Offers a Solid Framework for Agile, Fast-Moving Companies
When I left my partner position at a PE fund to start BluWave, I sought an operating framework to help us build the company in an agile and customer-centric way. I embraced a model conceived by Air Force Colonel John Boyd called the OODA Loop (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act). This framework has been extremely helpful as we’ve grown to serving more than 350 PE funds in a short period […]
Understanding the intricacies of interim CEO salary can significantly impact the success of your organization, especially if you’re considering temporary leadership to navigate transitional phases or unexpected vacancies. These seasoned executives offer specialized expertise and a fresh perspective, making them a valuable asset in steering companies toward growth and stability. Determining what constitutes a fair […]
Interim CFO for Startups: Transform Your Financial Strategy
Is your startup looking to take your financial strategy to the next level? Hiring an interim CFO could be the key to unlocking your company’s full potential. Agility and strategic financial planning are crucial for startups. An interim CFO offers the necessary insight and leadership to address financial challenges, ensuring your company progresses. The Crucial […]
Interim CFO Consulting: A Reliable Solution for Your Portfolio Companies
Private equity firms that need to find the right interim chief financial officer for their portfolio companies face a difficult task. The stakes are high, time is short, and experienced financial leadership is crucial. This is where interim CFO consulting services come into play, providing a reliable solution for PE firms looking to fill finance […]
