Tomorrow's Talent TodayTWIDDLE CO.&

Talent ClubNon-executive directors for

entrepreneur-led business

In today’s increasingly competitive world, entrepreneurs face many significant challenges.Is the composition of the board fit-for-purpose in light of what the business hopes to achieve? Is shareholder conflict affecting the performance of the business? What are the options for the business in the future? Should the shareholders consider an exit, merger or potential acquisition?

An increasing number of entrepreneurs are recognising that the appointment of exceptional independent directors can help them face and overcome these challenges in an objective, yet sensitive, way.

In addition to providing the company with access to skills and experience that it may not otherwise have, an independent director can bring impartiality, challenge and a fresh perspective to board decisions.

They are often able to open up new networks for the business in terms of customers, suppliers and professional advisors. They can also play an important role in the overall governance of the business, mediating where necessary, and opening the door to difficult conversations. Their ability to provide an independent view on strategy, succession planning and reward for board members, can often prove invaluable.

Appointing independent directors to the board in an entrepreneur-led business can be a delicate matter; gaining consensus on the appointment can sometimes be problematic where multiple shareholders are involved. Finding an executive who can bring the skills required and who has the ability to challenge the owners in a sensitive manner can prove difficult.

However, done right, the appointment of a non– executive director to an entrepreneur-led company can help ensure the continued success of the business.

What is Talent Club and how does it work?

Talent Club is our network of highly experienced independent directors, all of whom have held executive or non-executive board positions within successful, privately owned businesses.

Aside from their own significant commercial experience, they have a unique understanding of the complexities that often surround entrepreneur-led businesses.

Our membership:

• Individuals who have previously held chairman, non- executive director or CEO positions within mid-market privately owned businesses.

• Many have successfully achieved a “capital event” in their careers and therefore financial reward is not their key motivation. They do not need to work - they choose to work.

• Includes individuals who have run significant and well-known private businesses.

The Process:

Firstly, we meet with the shareholders or leader of the company to understand the vision, strategy and objectives for the business. We then work with you to clearly define the shareholder expectations of the value the independent director should bring, challenging your thoughts where appropriate.

It is likely that suitable candidates are already members of our Talent Club, providing the company with immediate access to a selection of executives for consideration.

Agreement regarding a mutually acceptable day-rate and time commitment is reached between the business and the Talent Club member. Twiddle & Co. charge a one-off fee for making the introduction to a successful relationship. There are no recurring fees.

If you are currently considering the appointment of an independent director to your board, then we would be delighted to speak.

Talent Club

Tomorrow’s Talent Today

CONTACTJames Buckley

Business Development Director

T: 01904 615 161

M: 0797 988 1716E: james@twiddleandco.com