Jemima Middle, Senior Associate

Q&A with Jemima

1. Tell us about your path here. Why did you choose to join Acertitude?

I initially joined Russell Reynolds as an intern and later became an analyst in its private equity practice, focusing on GP hiring in Europe across investor, investor relations, and operating partner roles. I relished both the people-focused nature of the industry, and the pace and focus of working in private equity, and was eager to maintain this specialism.

I was attracted to the dynamic proposition Acertitude had as a challenger brand in the European market. I joined during an exciting phase of growth for the London office, at a time when the team was constantly evolving and developing new practice areas, and proving ourselves in the market, which was a rewarding challenge. As a member of our ever-growing European private capital team, I enjoy the acute focus on shareholder-owned businesses and working with investors across the deal cycle. I appreciate the flexibility and dynamism we bring to client proposals and challenges, and the ability to provide innovative and bespoke client solutions. This, alongside working with a highly collaborative and talented team, creates a conitnually motivating and enjoyable workplace.

2. Describe a day in your life. Favorite parts of your job?

As a senior associate, I am responsible for managing multiple searches and pre-deal projects for private equity portfolio companies, collaborating with our research team and consultants alike. Alongside the delivery team, my daily focus is on robust, thorough, and thoughtful research, gleaning differentiated market insights, meeting and assessing candidates (with whom I am to develop career-long relationships), and regular touchpoints with clients. I focus across the broad spectrum of the Consumer sector, and my days are spent entrenching myself in the field's news and upcoming deal activity to continue to hone my industry knowledge and network.

My favourite aspect of the role is spending time with inspiring and engaging industry leaders. I appreciate the unique learning opportunities offered through these conversations; we are constantly gaining a variety of insights and perspectives, whether in the ESG field or the topics du jour in the sector, such as the consumer healthcare landscape.

3. What is special about working here?

I appreciate the flexibility and thoughtfulness we are empowered to adopt in candidate interactions or client challenges. I also love the strong spirit of collaboration within the wider team and firm, where individuals go the extra mile to assist each other, which often requires people to venture beyond their comfort zones or areas of expertise. This is a team of hardworking and diligent professionals who also enjoy having fun and spending time together, creating a well-balanced and enjoyable environment.

4. How has Acertitude helped you grow and perform at your best?

Being part of a firm at an early stage of its European growth journey and through its expansion phase has presented a unique challenge for me and the opportunity to contribute to its progress over the last two years. It has undergone growth and development in ways I hadn't anticipated, such as conducting searches in new market areas and acquiring new expertise. Doing this within a supportive and collaborative environment has not only expanded my knowledge, but has also increased my confidence in navigating ambiguity and working with grit, hustle, and determination.

On a personal development level, working alongside Partner, Charlotte Cederwall, to develop our European Private Equity practice and developing our track record of impressive credentials is something I'm particularly proud of.

5. In what ways - big or small - do you live out our mission of unleashing human potential?

Having the opportunity to collaborate with and mentor newer members of our team throughout their journeys in executive search has been rewarding; I enjoy sharing my experiences, learnings, and observations with them, having enjoyed an enriching and fortunate introduction to the search industry myself as a graduate.

Additionally, it is important to me that we foster open and honest dialogues in all facets of our role, aiming to create an environment in which others feel empowered to do the same. I believe this approach ensures that every conversation is genuinely authentic for all involved, whether internally, with clients, or with candidates.

6. What advice do you have for people looking to join Acertitude? What qualities do people need to be successful here?

An indication of organisational strength and dynamism lies in its ability to adapt or cater to your needs rather than the other way around. Instead of presenting a checklist for success, I'll highlight certain qualities and considerations that hold value in our industry:

Curiosity: You are in a privileged position to hear from influential executives, business leaders and investors regularly. Take this opportunity to learn from those conversations both personally and professionally.

Organisation: Planning and preparation (and all that!). We have busy, dynamic days, multiple projects, and often work with multiple stakeholders at any given time. By being prepared and organised with your time and priorities, you are building a foundation of granite.

Jemima at a glance