How we developed internal talent for executive roles
Challenge
A major financial services company faced a need to strengthen its leadership pipeline by focusing on developing internal talent for executive roles.
Leadership recognized building up high-potential leaders internally would not only advance the company’s core values but also reduce turnover and drive long-term cost efficiencies.
Investing in these leaders was seen as essential to cultivate a culture capable of advancing the organization’s evolving strategic objectives well into the future.
Solution
RHR created and launched a multiphase development program, Leading at Scale, to accelerate the readiness of 40 high-potential leaders.
This program, grounded in RHR's Readiness for ScaleSM methodology, emphasized:
Organizational insight: RHR coaches built expertise in the company’s unique environment by ensuring program insights and guidance aligned with its strategic vision and culture.
Tailored strategic alignment: In close collaboration with internal stakeholders, RHR designed a tailored experience focused on developing the specific leadership capabilities needed by participants to drive the company’s strategy into the future. One year after the program launched its first cohorts, it expanded to further support the leadership pipeline.
Integrated program delivery and growth pathways: The program integrated assessments, customized cohort modules, real-world application, and confidential coaching sessions. Leaders actively engaged with the program to develop practical skills in a supportive peer environment.
Results
The Leading at Scale program delivered significant improvements in leadership capabilities, confirmed by post program assessments:
Leadership growth: 87% of leaders reported meaningful progress toward their development goals.
Managerial support: 93% of leaders’ managers observed substantial improvements in their direct reports’ leadership abilities
Commitment to excellence: 100% of participants recommended RHR’s services, which affirmed RHR was genuinely invested in their success.
Through this program, the organization successfully built a strong internal leadership pipeline that was ready to navigate the complexities of executive roles and drive future growth.