Kate undertakes leadership assessment for selection and development. She draws on extensive experience in the development and application of psychometric tools, 360 surveys and in-depth interviewing.

Her background as a psychometrician underpins a rigorous, evidence-based approach. She places particular emphasis on the appropriate use and interpretation of assessment methods. She ensures that approaches are valid, reliable, fair and meaningful in practice, especially relevant in a world where AI can augment candidates and assessment technology.

She can work with clients to clarify what effective performance looks like in their specific context, creating clear and meaningful criteria for success. 

Her work goes beyond the application of tools in isolation, focusing on careful interpretation and professional judgement to build a clear, nuanced understanding of an individual’s leadership capability, potential and development needs.

Case Study – Independent Assessment for a Strategic C-Suite appointment

Context

Kate Williams Kate Williams was commissioned to undertake an independent assessment process for a newly created senior director role within a well-known organisation undergoing significant change and national attention.

The appointment was considered critical to the organisation’s future direction and reputation, with the successful candidate expected to play a central role in strengthening the organisation’s profile, building strategic relationships and supporting long-term growth.

Working from a brief provided by the CEO and HR Director, the assessment process needed to identify technical capability and experience, and also the personal qualities, leadership behaviours and personal brand required to succeed in a highly visible and politically complex role.

Approach

Kate worked closely with the client to clarify the requirements of the role and define meaningful success criteria.

The assessment process combined:

• In-depth biographical interviewing and psychometric profiling.
• Feedback validation discussions.
• Exploration of decision-making, judgement and leadership style.
• Assessment of stakeholder management capability and organisational fit.

The final candidates were high-profile individuals, requiring a highly professional, confidential and trusted approach throughout the process.

Particular attention was given to how candidates were likely to operate in relation to visibility, influence, relationship-building and navigating complex stakeholder dynamics.

Kate ensured that the assessment findings were carefully interpreted and translated into balanced, practical insight for decision-making.

Outcome

Feedback and recommendations provided to the CEO included:

• A clear summary of strengths and potential risks for each candidate.
• Insight into likely leadership impact and organisational fit.
• A tailored shortlist of questions to support further panel exploration and decision-making.

The client particularly valued the additional depth of insight provided through the process, including understanding the support and development likely to enable the preferred candidate to be successful in the role.

Following appointment, the successful candidate received developmental feedback and support in shaping an ongoing leadership development plan.