When we think about developing executive leadership, our minds often jump to skill-building: strategic thinking, decision-making, communication, emotional intelligence, and change management. However, a crucial yet often overlooked component is the language of leadership. What does leadership mean within your organisation? How do you articulate it in a way that aligns with your values and goals? This nuanced perspective is central to the work Five undertook with Hunter Campbell, a high-performing recruitment firm.

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The Challenge: Building a Leadership Team with Intent

Eighteen months ago, Hunter Campbell faced a pivotal moment. Known for creating exceptional chemistry between clients and candidates, their people-first approach drove rapid growth. But with growth came new challenges. Their Managing Partner, Lee Marshall, recognised the need to formalise their leadership team to support the business’s evolving demands. This wasn’t about following a template; Hunter Campbell needed a bespoke approach that reflected their unique values and vision.

"We wanted our leadership team to understand what leadership means in our organisation and to articulate that. But putting it into words isn’t easy." – Lee Marshall, Managing Partner

Lee’s vision went beyond skills and tactics. He wanted his team to share a clear understanding of leadership and communicate it effectively across the business. Off-the-shelf solutions wouldn’t work; Hunter Campbell needed a tailored programme that reflected their values and fostered co-creation.

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The Solution: A Bespoke Leadership Programme

Enter Five. From the outset, our approach focused on co-creating a programme tailored to Hunter Campbell’s needs. Nick and Bex, two of Five’s leadership experts, worked closely with Lee and his team to develop a framework that articulated leadership values while empowering their people to lead with purpose.

The programme included:

1. Defining Leadership Language: Workshops to develop a shared understanding and vocabulary for leadership.
2. Values Alignment: Exercises to embed Hunter Campbell’s values into leadership practices.
3. Practical Tools: Tailored strategies to support leadership growth and adaptability.
4. Executive Coaching: Monthly sessions to reinforce learning and accountability.

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Results: Transforming Leadership Across the Organisation

The impact was immediate and profound. The leadership team embraced the programme, embedding its principles into their day-to-day work. The new leadership language became a cornerstone of Hunter Campbell’s culture, aligning the team and driving engagement.

"Two of our team members with minimal leadership experience have shown the most growth. They fully invested in the programme and are now making a significant impact." – Lee Marshall

When external factors, like shifts in the economic climate, required Hunter Campbell to adapt their leadership style, the team rose to the challenge. Armed with a new vocabulary and tools, they navigated these changes with confidence and clarity. The result? A more cohesive, agile, and resilient leadership team.

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Why It Worked

The success of this partnership came down to trust, collaboration, and alignment with Hunter Campbell’s values. By focusing on co-creation and tailored solutions, Five empowered Hunter Campbell’s leaders to not only understand their roles but to thrive within them.

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Take Your Leadership to the Next Level

At Five, we believe leadership is a journey, not a destination. Whether you’re looking to build a leadership team or refine your organisation’s leadership language, we’re here to help. Get in touch to learn how we can support your leadership journey.

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