Pursuing a unicorn: accessing in-demand expertise

As leaders seek to better engage with stakeholders, build trust, and manage reputation more closely, demand for corporate affairs and communications expertise is increasing.

However, finding the right people isn't always easy.

In pursuit of a unicorn 

To be successful in the quest for improved trust and credibility, organisations need to find practitioners with the perfect blend of strategic acumen and communication excellence. Bringing a mix of specialised skills and a diverse perspective, beyond the technical, they must also be confident, personable, and trustworthy, with persuasive influence and a strong network.

Unfortunately, all-rounders like this are in short supply, and finding great talent, particularly at short notice, is increasingly difficult. 

With demand growing while talent pools remain constrained, the cost of corporate affairs and communications expertise is also on the rise.

An alternative, flexible expert

Consultants (sometimes referred to as fractional CCOs) are a valuable option for organisations looking for corporate affairs leaders who see it all and, importantly, can do it all – navigate complex issues and reputation pressures, build relationships, provide strategic advice, implement best-in-class processes, and deliver outstanding communication outcomes. 

These consultants bring decades of experience and are well-equipped to move quickly and efficiently to deliver solutions and strategic changes at scale, without compromising headcount.

Organisational benefits include:

1. Resource flexibility: Stepping in at short notice to lead or support specific projects, taking responsibility for change initiatives, supplementing a corporate affairs team, or maintaining ‘business as usual’ in the absence of key leadership.

2. Experience and independence: Bringing an objective external view; broad, proven expertise; and adding value by transferring skills, advice, and best practice processes to management and corporate affairs teams – undeterred by administrative challenges or office politics. 

3. Value: Helping organisations of all sizes and budgets tap into highly sought-after corporate affairs expertise without ongoing commitments or embarking on costly and time-consuming executive search programs. 

Working with a consultant is an efficient, effective and powerful mechanism for an organisation to reach its reputation goals.