Case study: Strengthening Senior Hiring & Culture Fit at Nest Invest
- 8 hours ago
- 3 min read
Client: Nest Invest
Sector: Public Sector Investment / Pension Asset Management
Project: Executive Selection Assessment & Recruitment Process Improvement
The Challenge
Nest Invest is undergoing rapid organisational growth as it scales its investment function, moving toward £100bn in assets under management. This expansion created a pressing need for a more structured and robust approach to senior hiring, one that could overcome internal capability gaps, public‑sector constraints, and an overreliance on generic recruitment processes. With limited internal HR expertise in highly technical investment roles, inconsistent recruitment practices, and a growing risk of eroding the organisation’s culture during such a pivotal phase, Nest needed a partner who could provide depth, independent assessment, and clarity in decision‑making.
Why Culture Impact?
Culture Impact was engaged because Nest required a partner who could blend rigorous psychometric expertise with a deep understanding of cultural alignment, an increasingly critical factor for an organisation whose ethos is rooted in public service and social purpose. Our Co-founder, Martin Egan, led this project, and his independence, ability to provide clear, candid recommendations, and nuanced, human‑centred approach made Culture Impact a trusted extension of Nest’s leadership team.
With a track record of supporting senior recruitment for public‑sector asset managers, coupled with strong peer recommendations, as a partner, we had the ability to improve both quality and confidence in Nest’s hiring decisions.
Our Approach
In‑Depth Psychometric Evaluation
We conducted assessments that went far beyond standard written reports, providing textured insight into candidates’ motivations, behaviours, and risk factors. This depth enabled Nest to make more confident decisions at critical stages of the process.
Independent, Evidence‑Led Recommendations
We offered an external lens free from internal bias. Our transparent approach, which highlights concerns and potential oversights, was invaluable in ensuring long‑term fit and reducing organisational risk.
Cultural Fit & Leadership Insight
Recognising the fragility of organisational culture during rapid growth, we assessed candidates not only for technical and leadership capability but also for alignment with Nest’s ethos, values, and working style.
Seamless Integration with Panels & Stakeholders
We supported a multi‑stage process involving CEO/CIO interviews and peer panels, helping Nest gain a whole‑organisation view of each candidate and strengthen buy‑in across teams.
Candidate‑Centred Experience
Candidates, including the successful final hire, commented on how our process increased their self‑awareness and helped them reflect on their leadership approach, enhancing both experience and engagement.
The Outcomes
Higher‑quality final hiring decisions, underpinned by deeper insight into candidate strengths, risks, and cultural alignment.
A more structured and scalable recruitment approach, moving Nest away from ad hoc practices and toward a repeatable model for senior hiring.
Improved confidence across leadership, thanks to Martin’s clear, independent recommendations and risk framing.
Enhanced candidate experience, with psychometrics providing real developmental value.
Stronger cultural safeguarding, supporting Nest’s aim to maintain its ethos as it rapidly expands.
A foundation for future leadership and team development, informing Nest’s plans for standardised assessments and ongoing executive team effectiveness work.
What They Said
“Culture Impact’s approach goes far beyond standard written reports, the level of depth, the clarity of recommendation, and the way they frame risk is incredibly valuable to us. With many third parties, there’s always a transactional element, making it hard to know what they really think, whereas Martin was compellingly clear, honest, and committed to giving Nest the unvarnished truth.”
Paul described past psychometric interviews as “sometimes good, sometimes not,” depending heavily on the individual assessor, but Martin stood out as consistently strong, offering a level of quality he had not experienced before.
Final Summary
Through Culture Impact’s involvement, Nest Invest has begun transforming its senior hiring approach, shifting from reactive, inconsistent processes to a more rigorous, structured, and insight‑driven model.
Our assessments provided the depth, independence, and cultural awareness Nest needed to make confident decisions during a crucial phase of organisational growth. This work has not only strengthened one hiring cycle but also laid the foundation for future recruitment, leadership development, and cultural stewardship within Nest’s expanding investment function.
Discover how we could support your recruitment journey. Get in touch to share your recruitment challenges and learn more about our approach to ensure you recruit senior leadership that has the ability to move your organisation forward.
Comments