Head of Communications - March Consultants

Client / Mandate complexity

This was the firm’s first Head of Communications hire. Previously, communications had been handled through an external agency with some internal coordination. The role offered a mix of hands-on communications work and strategic input, with responsibility for building the function over time. The client approached us because of our knowledge of the private equity market and our ability to identify candidates who understood the environment.

Requirements

Key requirements included experience working closely with external agencies and holding them to account, as well as the credibility to engage with deal teams during M&A activity. The firm also wanted someone who could bring fresh thinking on how to develop the communications function from the ground up.

Constraints or sensitivities

The challenge was finding the right level of seniority. The client wanted someone with room to grow into the role, but who already had the credibility to work with senior leadership and operate confidently within the firm.

Market mapping and intelligence

We mapped candidates across private equity firms, consulting firms, and asset managers, with a strong preference for individuals who already had private equity experience. This ensured candidates understood the pace, expectations, and stakeholder environment typical of a PE-backed setting.

Candidate evaluation process

We met with a wide range of senior stakeholders across the firm to build alignment around the role and the profile required. It was important that the eventual hire was someone the leadership team could work with closely and trust, given the visibility and influence of the position.

Successful placement details

A key part of the process was helping candidates understand the long-term opportunity the role offered and the scope to grow with the business. Several candidates were engaged over an extended period before the timing aligned. Ultimately, we placed a candidate from a competing firm, bringing relevant experience and credibility into the role.