When companies expand to a new location, hiring a local leader can save them time, money and risk. Someone who can help integrate your company into the community, build the initial team, establish connections with local universities and colleges and build strong relationships with local hubs, incubators and industry associations. The challenge is finding the right person for the job.

In the second episode of LANDED, we speak to Kristina McDougall, founder of executive recruitment firm Artemis Canada, about the qualities that make a good local lead, the recruitment process and the things companies should consider before making a hire in their new community.

Key Questions:

• Why is it a good idea for new-to-Waterloo companies to hire a local lead?
• Are there standard qualities that make for a good local lead? A specific skillset or experience?
• If I’m a CEO looking to grow in Waterloo, how do I start the recruitment process? What do I need to know before I talk to you?
• What does the recruitment process usually look like for a local lead?
• What are some common challenges in hiring a local lead?
• What are the alternatives to hiring a local lead? What are the pros and cons of those alternatives? 

Have thoughts? Connect with Waterloo EDC on Twitter and LinkedIn or contact us at waterlooedc.ca.

Music by John_Sib from Pixabay.

What’s the secret behind a successful international expansion? It’s an important strategy for business growth, but until you’ve done it… you haven’t done it. How do you get insight into the process and approach? That’s why LANDED exists. Waterloo EDC is leveraging its partners and contacts to get unique insights into why and how companies grow through expansion.

Our first episode features Ryan Morris, the CEO of Turntide Technologies, in conversation about his company’s growth to include nine locations including three outside the United States.

Key Questions:

• What drives the decision to expand outside of your HQ? Is it always something different?
• What drives an international expansion vs. growth within the United States?
• What happens first when you decide to expand? Do you sell the idea to other senior leaders? Do you approach investors or board members?
• How do you evaluate locations? Do you get help or search for locations yourself?
• What hurdles have you had to overcome when you expand?
• If you had to give other business leaders one piece of advice related to international expansion, what would it be?

Have thoughts? Connect with Waterloo EDC on Twitter and LinkedIn or contact us at waterlooedc.ca.

Music by John_Sib from Pixabay.

This is LANDED, your podcast for insider tips on international business expansion.

Each episode will feature real experts – site selectors, recruiters, lawyers and successful entrepreneurs – talking about their own experiences with international business expansion. They'll give you first-hand advice and perspective to consider when growing your business in a new location.

All episodes can be found at waterlooedc.ca/podcast or on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon Music or wherever you listen.