The Consulting Growth Podcast

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Phil Rolfe founded, grew and sold FS101 to P2 Consulting, then P2 Consulting to Valcon, where he is now the country COO for the UK.
This episode promises a treasure trove of wisdom, from Phil's transformative journey from Eagle Star, KPMG and RBS to the innovative frontiers of Vulcan's data problem-solving focus. As your host, Professor Joe O'Mahoney, I'm thrilled to share how Phil's bold leap to the Netherlands and the launch of FS101 led to an exhilarating adventure in financial crime advisory.
You'll gain rare insight into the delicate dance between new leaders and their predecessors, and how Phil's commitment to transparent communication shaped a resilient path through the challenges of private equity involvement. His reflections on personal growth and cultivating a supportive leadership atmosphere within a large organization provide a candid glimpse into the essence of effective management.
As we explore the intricate tapestry of business growth and scaling, Phil unveils the strategic musings behind hiring decisions in a growing firm. We then discuss the future of consulting in a digitally transformed world, where AI and data analytics are not just buzzwords but pivotal tools reshaping the industry.
For anyone eager to understand the forces driving business success and innovation, Phil's incredible journey is a beacon of inspiration and strategic acumen.

Prof. Joe O'Mahoney helps boutique consultancies scale and exit. Joe's research, writing, speaking and insights can be found at www.joeomahoney.com

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What does it truly take to build a PR and communication firm that stands tall among the giants? Today, we're joined by Jessica Schaefer, founder of Bevel, a strategic PR and communications firm that has carved a unique niche at the intersection of financial services and technology. Jessica's remarkable journey takes us from her start in the throes of the Great Recession, through prestigious companies like Moody's to the establishment of her own game-changing venture. Learn how Bevel's strategic approach of applying a hedge fund-based performance model to communications, coupled with a focus on quarterly KPIs and bonuses tied to client retention, set it apart in an intensively competitive market.
Dive into the heart of the challenges and rewards of creating a consultancy powerhouse with us. Jessica offers an insider's view into the delicate art of managing clients, nurturing talent, and maintaining a work-life balance while steering a successful firm. Our conversation touches on the factors that contributed to the impressive acquisition multiple on Bevel's sale, providing valuable insights into the business of PR and the nuances of selling an enterprise. Strap in for a thrilling exploration of the world of entrepreneurship that every aspiring professional should hear.
As we navigate through the rapidly evolving landscape of communications and technology, Jessica shares her perspective on the future of Bevel and its synergies with Avenue Z. The focus is also on their recent acquisitions and the increasing emphasis on digital marketing, PR, and influencer strategies. The conversation delves into the importance of attracting and retaining top talent and how Bevel's dedication to meaningful work and ownership has been a critical factor in their success. We wrap up with a deep dive into the benefits and challenges of being a young, female founder from a non-privileged background. This is an episode you won't want to miss. Tune in for a truly inspirational journey and invaluable lessons for emerging entrepreneurs.

Prof. Joe O'Mahoney helps boutique consultancies scale and exit. Joe's research, writing, speaking and insights can be found at www.joeomahoney.com

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When it comes to consulting, Bill has been there and done that. He made partner at Deloitte over twenty years ago, and the co-founded and sold Kalypso - a global management consulting firm focused on innovation across five industry sectors.
After being board member on several great firms, Bill founded and led The Launch Box: a platform for starting and growing professional service firms that enables founders to focus exclusively on selling, serving clients, nurturing talent, and growing the business.
More information at www.joeomahoney.com.

Prof. Joe O'Mahoney helps boutique consultancies scale and exit. Joe's research, writing, speaking and insights can be found at www.joeomahoney.com

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David Blois is a founder and Managing Partner of M&A Advisory, a niche boutique that initiates and executes M&A transactions with a sound cultural and business fit in order to maximise value. The firm focuses on the global marketing communications, digital and Martech sectors. With a strong research ethos, it works from a central London base for all sizes of client. M&A Advisory is the exclusive M&A partner for the PRCA and is part of Eaton Square, a global M&A firm. For further details please see website at www.mandaadvisory.com or email David directly at [email protected]
David is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (FCCA) and member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing. After a number of financial and business management positions in the UK and overseas he became part of the Plc. Corporate Finance team at Reed Elsevier, helping shape it through acquisition into a global information business. David then joined Saatchi & Saatchi as Commercial Director, Eastern Europe, where the business gained market leadership through merger. Prior to establishing M&A Advisory, David completed UK and international transactions as Director of Results International, a London based advisory firm.
More information at www.joeomahoney.com.

Prof. Joe O'Mahoney helps boutique consultancies scale and exit. Joe's research, writing, speaking and insights can be found at www.joeomahoney.com

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What does great thought leadership look like for boutique consultancies? Join us on the Consulting Growth Podcast as we engage with Athena Peppes, a luminary in thought leadership and artificial intelligence. Drawing from her stellar career at Accenture and her current role as an independent consultant, Athena unveils what makes thought leadership effective.
In this episode, Athena demystifies how boutique firms can leverage AI to distill valuable insights from existing client relationships. Discover strategies to produce impactful annual statement pieces that can strengthen your firm's market position. Athena also explores the transformative power of generative AI in professional services, emphasizing the importance of high-end thought leadership amidst an oversaturated content landscape. She delves into emerging technologies like gen AI and synthetic data, which are making advanced analytics more accessible than ever.
Our conversation doesn’t stop there. We navigate the complex landscape of AI and robotics, reflecting on the multifaceted expectations surrounding AI’s capabilities. Inspired by insights from economist Anton Koronek, we discuss how businesses can better anticipate and adapt to disruptive AI applications. Learn why addressing specific business pain points is crucial for successful AI integration, and hear Athena’s thoughtful analysis on the future challenges and opportunities that AI presents. This episode is packed with invaluable insights for anyone looking to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of technology and consultancy.
Athena's website: https://www.athenapeppes.com/
The Thought Leadership-as a Service consultancy: https://www.beaconthoughtleadership.com/

Prof. Joe O'Mahoney helps boutique consultancies scale and exit. Joe's research, writing, speaking and insights can be found at www.joeomahoney.com