Conducting an Executive Search to appoint the Chair and Advisory Board members to support the Victorian skills system. The focus of the Advisory Board is to support Victorians gain the training they need to find work
The Brief
The Victorian Government established this Advisory Board to provide independent advice to the Minister on long term strategic direction, maximising outcomes from investment in training and skills sector, and strategic reforms in response to industry and community needs. Additionally the Board was to ensure relevance, quality and equity in the training system, ensure an accurate reflection of current and future needs, and deliver on requirements to support government priority workforces.
The Advisory Board was to be comprised of up to 15 members, including the Chair and standing members. The majority of members will be selected to ensure the Board can provide insights based on a strong understanding of the Victorian skills system and bring expertise and experience from across the sector.
Future Leadership was approached to run two concurrent executive searches to appoint the Chair and Advisory Board Members. Members were to be assessed against a range of skills and experience to ensure a balanced mix of skills and background. Regional experience and expertise would be welcomed across the Board. In addition, the Chair will have a high level of industry and/or VET sector credibility and proven senior leadership experience.
Candidate net Promote Score
Future Leadership combines truly personalised relationships with innovative technology solutions to ensure an approachable and efficient process for all our Net Promoter Score across clients, successful candidates and unsuccessful candidates is well above industry standard.
Candidates supported every year
We maintain genuine relationships with past candidates and continue to support them with leadership solutions long term, after they land their role.
Senior Women Appointed since 2002
Over half of the executive search assignments undertaken by our team have resulted in the appointment of outstanding female or LGBTQI+ leaders to high profile roles.
Candidate Retention Rate for 12 months since 2002
Our thorough briefing process and ability to engage passive candidates mean that we go to great lengths to find the right person for the role – long term!
The Process
Future Leadership™ undertook a comprehensive search process tailored to the needs of the Board. The search strategy was developed to target individuals and organisations with specific and relevant Board experience gained in the education sector.
A rigorous executive search was undertaken using a number of online websites for advertising. Over 200 applications were received, with a range of backgrounds and experience. Candidates were assessed against a diverse and complex matrix of Key Selection Criteria in order to ensure diversity of experience and thought within the Board.
Top capabilities Identified for the appointments
Strategy and Purpose
Develops and leads strategy for the function/organisation, taking a broad and long-term perspective. Understands and considers context. Communicates and gains buy-in to the function/organisation goals, direction and vision, promoting change initiatives.
Commercial Acumen
Provides a deep understanding of relevant industry, marketplace and business drivers as applicable to the organisation. Leverages the application of commercial tools and frameworks to manage opportunities, conflicts and trade-offs.
Critical Thinking
Gathers and examines different data points, testing for assumptions and gaps in logic; reframes problems and presents well-reasoned insights considering diverse perspectives. Analyses, interprets and objectively evaluates information enabling judgements.
Organisational Capability
Understands the organisation's future requirements and identifies opportunities to build potential across the organisation. Seeks opportunities to develop other people and takes appropriate action to address skill gaps in others.
Adaptability and Resilience
Demonstrates positivity, curiosity, and the ability to pivot when confronted with change, pressure, adversity and disruption. Responsive to strategic environmental, social and corporate challenges and opportunities.
Systems Thinking
Views situations in their entirety, understanding all the parts at play. Identifies the interconnected factors and how they influence each other, impacting the whole system. Takes a strategic perspectives
The Outcome
At the conclusion of the search Future Leadership confirmed the appointment of the Chair and twelve Board Members.
The appointed Chair brought depth and credibility in both vocational and higher education, combined with a well established reputation in the sector. The appointee had held multiple executive positions where they had supported the design of a clear and inspiring vision, along with strong student satisfaction and employment outcomes. Their passion and commitment as a leaders in the sector was oriented toward realising and maximising the vital connection between industry needs, teaching excellence and career pathways. The appointee also brought experience in Board positions within education.
