SMEs turning to non-execs to trigger expansion

Britainís small and medium-size companies are increasingly recruiting non-executive directors for the first time to help them break into new markets, according to the UKís leading executive jobsite.

Figures from exec-appointments.com show its non-exec sector has doubled in the last quarter with many smaller enterprises now looking for non-executives with specific industry experience and useful contacts.

Chief executive Betty Thayer, who also operates The Non-Executive Director (www.non-execs.com) in association with Ernst & Young, said: ìInterest in non-execs has been reinforced by recent important reports and publications on their evolving role. Smaller companies are picking up on the idea as a practical and affordable way to help them expand.î

One enterprise to take this route via exec-appointments.com is fast-growing web communications company BrightTALK. Co-founder Charlie Blackburn said: ìWhen you are building a complex technology company, you have to focus on the problems that you have solutions for, and the markets that have those problems. We think bringing on non-execs is a good way of helping us to penetrate new markets.î

BrightTALK is involved with the converging communications technologies and clients include HSBC, Financial Times Business and M&G Investments. Its new non-executive director is Liz Nelson, who founded Taylor Nelson Sofres, one of the worldís largest market research companies. Blackburn says she will bring a new perspective to the board as well as her marketing experience and expertise. With one board meeting under her belt, he says the dynamic of the board has already changed - for the better.

As well as finding a non-executive director, BrightTALK is also signing up three new advisors. They are David Somers, who was head of institutional development at Insight, and Dean Dibiase, a US internet strategist, who joins as a consultant. The third advisor is being finalised.

Blackburn says: ìThe response showed us that there are many talented people out there who want to work in new settings or in different ways. I think there is an interesting business model here because people want to work more flexibly. Some may be coming to the end of their careers but they are still keen to contribute and be involved. They want mental stimulation, they want to remain active and they want to feel that their knowledge is valued.î

Using exec-appointments.com proved to be just the right fit, he says. ìThe website technology and the coverage worked well, and it was a very cost-effective way of reaching a wide audience.

ìWe have found four experienced people who have the potential to significantly help our business - and you canít argue with that.î