C-Level Consulting: Find a Strategic Partner for Your Business

Business is changing faster than ever, and decisions made at the top of the organisational structure determine the stability and direction of companies’ development. This is where C-Level Consulting comes in – consulting that supports leaders in creating strategies, managing change and making the most important decisions. It is partnership-based support at times when an organisation needs clear directions and proven solutions.

What is true C-Level consulting?

C-Level consulting is much more than classic consulting. It is a partnership with the management board and key leaders, focused on the direction in which the company is developing. Consultants at this level do not limit themselves to preparing reports or recommendations – they act as external strategic advisors who support decision-making processes and help implement real change.

The aim of C-Level consulting is to strengthen leadership, increase management effectiveness and develop the organisation based on a long-term vision. This includes, among other things, digital transformation, creating growth strategies, restructuring and redefining the business model. This type of cooperation requires trust and a full understanding of the company’s goals – the advisor becomes a partner who can combine an operational perspective with a vision for the development of the entire enterprise.

When does a company need an external executive advisor?
External management consulting becomes necessary at turning points for an organisation. It is a particularly good time to work with a C-level advisor when:

• the company is experiencing stagnant growth and needs a new perspective,
• it plans to enter a new market or expand abroad,
• there is a need for digital transformation or structural reorganisation,
• the organisation is preparing for succession or ownership changes,
• the management board needs independent support in making strategic decisions,
• there are challenges related to organisational culture, communication or talent retention.

In such situations, an external C-Level advisor helps to look at the business from a distance, identify areas requiring change and develop an action plan that truly supports the organisation’s development. Working with HRK experts as part of Executive Search is a way to gain a partner who understands the specifics of management board work and can effectively support leaders in making decisions.

In such situations, an external C-Level advisor helps to look at the business from a distance, identify areas requiring change, and develop an action plan that truly supports the organisation’s development. Working with HRK experts as part of Executive Search is a way to gain a partner who understands the specifics of management board work and can effectively support leaders in making decisions of strategic importance.

Recruiting leaders: Executive Search and beyond

Recruiting leaders for top positions is a process that requires diligence and knowledge of the specifics of the business. Executive Search is the foundation of C-Level consulting because it allows you to reach people who are often not actively looking for work but are ready to take on new challenges. This is where methods such as headhunting and retained search come into play, adding depth and effectiveness to the process.

Headhunting is based on directly reaching out to managers with unique skills – recruiters identify them on the market and present them with an offer that matches their experience and ambitions. Retained search, on the other hand, works on the principle of close cooperation with the company, where the consultant conducts the entire process in a comprehensive manner, analysing the organisation’s needs and presenting candidates who are not only suited to the tasks, but also to the organisational culture.

Key areas of support: our C-Level Consulting services

Below we present the services we provide in the area of management consulting — we formulate them as specific benefits for organisations and leaders:

Executive Search & Headhunting of management staff

We provide recruitment processes focused on the highest management level — we identify and recruit leaders who not only meet technical requirements but also fit into the organisation’s culture. Thanks to the direct search method, the client receives not only the selected candidate but also a market map and knowledge about available talent.

Strategic consulting and business transformation

We support management boards in creating and implementing transformation plans — from changing the business model, through operational optimisation, to digitisation and restructuring projects. Our support is based on a deep understanding of the specifics of the organisation and the market, which allows us to propose flexible strategies tailored to the realities of business.

Preparation for scaling and market expansion

We consult on growth processes — the development of organisational structures, entry into new markets, integration of acquisitions, and foreign expansion. We help build scalable operating models and processes that work as the company grows and operations become more complex.

AI Strategy for Industry Leaders

We implement a strategic approach to artificial intelligence at the management level — planning the use of AI in business processes, operational models, and innovative initiatives. We help leaders understand where AI can generate value and how to integrate it into existing structures.

Meet our experts: experience that matters

The HRK Executive Search team consists of leaders with many years of experience in executive recruitment. They are partners and consultants who support the management boards of the largest companies in Poland and abroad on a daily basis, implementing projects of strategic importance. Each of them has extensive experience in areas such as personnel consulting, change management and organisational transformation.

HRK’s experts include, among others:

• Piotr Mazurkiewicz – Managing Partner, HRK Executive Search
• Zbigniew Woźniakowski – President cooperating on recruitment projects
• Tomasz Sokołowski – Vice-President with many years of experience in HR consulting
• Magdalena Bylinowicz – HRK Partner specialising in strategic recruitment
• Marcin Iwaniec – Senior Executive Director involved in C-Level projects
• Mateusz Bazydło – Senior Executive Director cooperating with international clients

For a full overview of the competences and experience of our experts, please visit their profiles on the HRK website, where you will find case studies, recommendations and detailed project descriptions.

What does the cooperation process look like?

Below we present a simplified model of our cooperation — transparent for the client and focused on efficiency:

1. Diagnosis and strategic brief
   • Discussion with the management board and key stakeholders
   • Defining objectives, key competencies and the profile of the ideal candidate
2. Strategy and market mapping
   • Market research and talent identification
   • Development of a search plan – direct search / headhunting
3. Selection and evaluation of candidates
   • Conducting competency interviews, tests and assessments
   • Presentation of a shortlist of candidates
4. Support during negotiations and implementation
   • Assistance in finalising the terms of employment
   • Support in onboarding and performance monitoring
5. Relationship maintenance and evaluation
   • Regular meetings with the client and candidate
   • Evaluation of long-term effects, possibility of further consulting

Our process is flexible and tailored to the client’s needs, and each stage is conducted in a transparent manner with full attention to confidentiality.

Ready to talk? Contact us

Would you like to discuss your organisation’s challenges or learn about the possibilities of working with HRK experts? Contact us directly:

Telephone: +48 22 420 20 00
Email: recepcja@hrk.pl
Contact form available on the HRK website

Let’s discuss your company’s challenges and work together to find solutions that will accelerate its growth.

FAQ – frequently asked questions

What do advisory services for senior management involve?

They include support in strategic and operational areas, from development planning to consulting on financial management and change.

How does an executive advisor differ from a trusted advisor?

An executive advisor supports leaders in strategic decisions and day-to-day management, while a trusted advisor also acts as a partner in long-term business development.

Is project management consulting useful for C-level managers?

Yes, because it allows for better control over key initiatives and is linked to consulting in the areas of operational efficiency and risk management.

What role do Talent Acquisition and Talent Development play in C-level consulting?

These are processes that support the acquisition and development of leaders. They are often combined with talent and leadership consulting to build strong management teams.

Why do companies use Retained Search?

Retained Search ensures effective recruitment of top-level managers. Complemented by consulting on organisational development and business strategy, it helps companies better prepare for future challenges.

 

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