Challenge
A global consulting firm with a strong Banking presence sought to expand into the Insurance sector in France and Benelux. While well established in Financial Services, the firm had no dedicated Insurance capability in the region.
The mandate was to appoint a Partner who could define market potential, shape business strategy, and build a new practice from the ground up.
Why River
The client chose River for deep insight into the French Insurance leadership market and access to a highly relationship-driven, largely passive Partner talent pool. River’s ability to benchmark senior Insurance leaders credibly — and position a new practice build within a broader Financial Services platform — was critical.
Approach
- Mapped the French Insurance consulting landscape end-to-end, covering international consultancies, specialist boutiques, and in-house advisory teams
- Identified 56 relevant consulting and Insurance organisations
- Mapped and benchmarked 271 senior Insurance leaders
- Assessed candidates on entrepreneurial mindset, industry credibility, client relationships, and experience building new practices within larger organisations
- Acted as strategic advisor, refining the target profile and strengthening market positioning
Outcome & Impact
- Secured 1 Partner hire to launch and lead the Insurance practice
- Established a credible Insurance capability within an existing Financial Services platform
- Positioned the firm for cross-sector growth across France & Benelux