By Mark Frank
It’s hard to believe it’s been five and a half years since COVID-19 brought the world to a standstill. In that time, we’ve witnessed a dramatic evolution in business dynamics—from the initial shock and shutdowns to the exuberant fundraising and spending of 2021 and 2022, followed by a sobering return to financial and operational discipline in 2023 and 2024. For executive teams, this period has been nothing short of a roller coaster.
At Calibre One, we’ve had a front-row seat to these shifts, and one of the most notable trends we observed in 2023 and early 2024 was a significant reduction in the number of C-1 and C-2 roles across organizations. This contraction wasn’t just about headcount—it reflected a broader recalibration of priorities, resources, and leadership structures.
Take, for example, the role of a Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) in an upper middle market company. In 2022, she might have had three direct reports: a Senior Vice President (SVP) and two Vice Presidents (VPs). Fast forward to 2023, and that same CMO may have found herself working with a leaner team—perhaps just an SVP and two Directors, or a VP and a Director. While this shift brought her closer to the day-to-day operations and frontline employees, it also came at a cost: less time and bandwidth to think strategically and plan for the long-term health of the business.
This tactical pivot, while necessary in the face of economic uncertainty, created a leadership gap. Senior executives were increasingly consumed by immediate operational demands, leaving little room for strategic foresight. As a result, we’ve seen a marked increase in searches for C-1 and C-2 level executives in recent months. Companies are recognizing that to thrive—not just survive—they need to reinvest in their leadership bench.
Hiring strong VP or SVP-level talent is more than just a numbers game. It’s a strategic move that allows C-level leaders to reclaim their role as visionaries and strategic partners to the CEO, board, and investors. These new hires bring fresh perspectives, industry best practices, and the operational horsepower needed to execute on ambitious goals. They also help restore balance—a critical but often overlooked aspect of executive leadership.
Balance is the cornerstone of effective leadership. The best senior executives know how to navigate the tension between short-term execution and long-term strategy. They make it look effortless, but the reality is that no one does it alone. Behind every successful C-suite leader is a high-performing team that enables them to focus on what matters most.
As we move further into 2025, the lessons of the past five years are becoming clearer. Organizations that adapted quickly, invested wisely, and built resilient leadership teams are emerging stronger. The pendulum is swinging back toward growth, innovation, and strategic planning—but this time with a renewed appreciation for discipline and efficiency.
At Calibre One, we believe the future belongs to companies that strike the right balance between tactical execution and strategic vision. That balance starts with the right people in the right roles. Whether you’re rebuilding your leadership team or preparing for your next phase of growth, now is the time to invest in the talent that will shape your future.