top of page
background_blackmere_grid (1).jpg

BLACKMERE CASE STUDY:

Confidential CISO Executive Search for a Unicorn SaaS Company

​

Client Overview:

Our client, a large U.S. federal agency, approached Blackmere with a retained search for their Chief Operations Officer (COO) to elevate its operational efficiency and strategic impact by bringing in a seasoned Chief Operating Officer (COO). Tasked with overseeing a wide range of administrative functions and guiding the agency’s future strategic roadmap, the new COO will play a critical role in advancing the agency’s mission to serve the public and enhance internal processes.

Challenge:

The agency needed an experienced COO with a strong operations, strategic planning, and leadership background. In addition, this role required someone who could manage the agency’s complex administrative functions—from budgeting and personnel to IT and risk management—while serving as a key advisor to the Director on agency-wide initiatives. Ideal qualifications included:

  • Proven experience in senior operational leadership within government or similarly complex, regulated environments.

  • Expertise in managing diverse administrative functions and aligning them with organizational goals.

  • The ability to inspire, mentor, and develop a team while promoting a culture of innovation, accountability, and equal employment principles.

  • Strong advisory skills to offer insight into high-level policy and management strategies impacting the agency’s mission.

This individual needed to balance immediate operational oversight and long-term strategic planning and communicate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders across federal and regulatory agencies.

​

Solution:

Blackmere Consulting used its extensive experience in executive recruitment within the public sector to conduct a targeted search for candidates with the right blend of operational expertise, strategic vision, and leadership. We designed our recruitment strategy to find a candidate who could lead the agency’s administrative functions while supporting a mission-focused culture.

Our approach included:

  1. Executive Search Focused on Government Operations Leadership: Blackmere prioritized candidates with senior-level operational experience, particularly those with expertise in managing complex government or regulated environments. Candidates with a track record in strategic planning, policy development, and resource management were given particular attention.

  2. Evaluation of Strategic Advisory Skills: Recognizing the dual advisory and operational nature of the role, we assessed candidates’ ability to collaborate with senior leadership, offer actionable insights, and make high-stakes decisions. This included evaluating their experience in strategic planning and resource management to align with the agency’s goals.

  3. Cultural Fit and Mission Alignment: Given the agency’s commitment to public service and accountability, we prioritized candidates with a mission-driven mindset, adaptability, and the ability to foster a positive, collaborative environment. We sought individuals with experience building inclusive, high-performing teams that align with the agency’s values.

​

Result:

Blackmere extended an offer to an accomplished candidate whose background aligns closely with the agency’s goals and operational needs. This individual’s expertise in federal operations, resource management, and strategic planning positions them well to make a significant impact in the COO role. Their track record in fostering a positive organizational culture and promoting accountability will support the agency’s mission and long-term objectives.

​

Impact:

As the new COO steps into this role, Blackmere looks forward to seeing its positive impact on the agency’s operational efficiency, strategic direction, and employee development initiatives. With a strong foundation in federal operations and a collaborative leadership style, the new hire is well-prepared to help the agency streamline processes, strengthen alignment across departments, and drive innovation that supports the public good.

​

Key Takeaways:

  • Blackmere’s targeted executive search approach enabled the agency to identify a COO candidate with the operational expertise, advisory skills, and mission-driven focus needed for this high-impact role.

  • Our emphasis on cultural alignment and strategic capabilities provided a candidate well-suited to guide the agency’s administrative and operational functions, ensuring a strong foundation for future growth.

  • Blackmere’s deep understanding of public sector requirements allowed us to deliver a candidate positioned to support the agency’s strategic objectives and enhance its ability to serve the public effectively.

  • ​

CASE PROFILE

Company: 

A large U.S. federal agency focused on public service, accountability, and driving organizational innovation.

Industry:

Public Sector - Government

Challenge

Finding a seasoned operational leader with expertise in government functions, strategic planning, and team development to oversee diverse administrative responsibilities and guide agency-wide initiatives.

Solution

Blackmere conducted an executive search targeting candidates with federal operations expertise, strong advisory skills, and a mission-driven mindset to align with the agency’s goals and culture.

Impact

The new COO is set to streamline processes, strengthen interdepartmental alignment, and foster innovation, positioning the agency for long-term operational success and enhanced public service delivery.

Client Testimonials:

CFO: "We just had the most amazing all-hands meeting here today... We are making such an impact. It’s mind-blowing. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!"

​

COO: "You. Are. AMAZING!! You totally delivered a unicorn, and [candidate] is amazing. Well done!!"

Through strategic talent acquisition and confidential search processes, our firm played a critical role in strengthening our clients' cybersecurity capabilities, enabling them to navigate complex cyber threats and drive organizational success with confidence.

Interested in learning how Blackmere can transform your difficult-to-fill or high-profile roles? Learn more

bottom of page