Partner Spotlight: An Interview with Nick Robeson and Charlie Dell of Boyden UK

Nick: Charlie, as a Principal in Boyden UK’s Executive Search Practice, can you tell us about your focus and priorities.

Charlie: I am part of Boyden’s Executive Search Healthcare & Life Science practice in the UK, sitting alongside colleagues Nick Bellwood and Josh Blackman. Between us we cover the full sector, with my specialty lying within privately backed organisations, be they Private Equity or Venture Capital. This has considerable breadth, however, through regular interaction with our vast network we are able to specialise within investor trends and market activity.

Nick: How do you manage your clients’ need for both Permanent and/or Interim Executives to support their businesses?

Charlie: Working with highly experienced colleagues within interim management and leadership consulting enables our executive search team to act as a conduit to our client. This level of collaboration enables us to bring the best team to the table every time to service our client’s needs and achieve optimal results.

Nick: What do you see as the key challenges and opportunities within the UK HCLS sector for 2025?

Charlie: There is significant dry powder within the Private Equity industry at the moment and a mindset shift towards capital deployment. The Healthcare & Life Science space is seeing a resurgence in deal size and activity, focusing on niche players with scalability through internationalisation and bolt-on deals. This is largely being driven within the biopharmaceuticals and service industries, however, healthcare IT has seen a revival with providers facing financial pressures and investing in core systems to boost productivity.

We expect 2025 to be a tougher year for exits and secondary deals, largely driven by valuations within a tight market. There will be a greater importance put on future value creation strategy, provided by sellers.

Nick: What do you look for in a great executive profile?

Charlie: Resilience and adaptability are crucial qualities for candidates as they enable individuals to navigate and thrive in the ever-changing landscape of today's business environment. Resilient candidates can withstand setbacks and challenges, maintaining their focus and productivity under pressure. Adaptability allows them to quickly adjust to new situations, technologies, and market demands, ensuring they remain effective and relevant. Together, these traits foster a proactive and solution-oriented mindset, essential for driving organisational success and innovation.

Nick: What are your top tips to be a successful candidate in the Healthcare & Life Sciences industry?

Charlie: To thrive in the life sciences industry, candidates should stay ahead by continuously learning and keeping up with the latest advancements. Networking is key - connect with industry leaders for insights and opportunities. Balance scientific expertise with business savvy and communicate complex ideas with clarity. Be resilient and adaptable to navigate this dynamic field. Lastly, let your passion for improving patient outcomes and driving innovation shine through - it's what sets you apart in this competitive landscape.