Hiring Retired Executives

by Seth Sinclair, Member

Most of Sinclair Advisory Group’s Associates—the people who accomplish the tasks our clients entrust us with—are retired government leaders.  Our Associate roster includes people who have had remarkably successful careers, possess outstanding executive skills, and know how to operate in an atmosphere of continual change.  My job is a simple one: to get them the tools they need to be successful in their work with us.

One of the most important aspects of our business plan is designed to help solve a problem that government and private industry share; children born in the immediate aftermath of World War II, better known as “baby boomers,” are reaching retirement age.  The new generation of leaders who will replace these men and women simply don’t yet have the expertise to deal with the unforeseen challenges every organization faces.  Senior leaders are leaving the workforce faster than they can be replaced.  The problem is particularly acute in government, where early retirement is a viable option for many executives.

At the same time, however, many new retirees aren’t ready to give up working for the rest of their lives.  They enjoy part-time or project-driven work, which gives them the chance to continue to use the skills they’ve carefully developed throughout their careers—and working as consultants is a great way to do that, and to help government agencies and other organizations accomplish their missions.

There are any number of reasons government agencies and others find value in hiring consultants: to bring in knowledge and skills they don’t currently have; to solve specific problems or handle specific projects; to train current staff; to lower costs; and to serve as mentors and advisors.  Our Associates bring fresh perspectives and new ideas, if that’s what an organization needs, or strong and disciplined management skills, if that’s what it takes.

We think we’ve created a business that makes sense for the 21^st century.  Let us know what you think.