Canada's 10 Promising Consulting Firms To Know
Canada's 10 Promising Consulting Firms To Know
Canada's 10 Promising Consulting Firms To Know
EXECUTION
THE EVOLVING ROLE OF
CONSULTANTS IN
CANADIAN BUSINESSES
CHALLENGES AND
10 PROMISING
REWARDS
THE REALITIES OF
CONSULTING FIRMS
WORKING AS A TO KNOW
CONSULTANT IN
CANADA
- Albert Schweitzer
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the
EDITOR
Ryan Parker
Managing Editor
ontent COVER STORY
06.
Rizolve Partners
Directing Strategic Transitions in
Business Ownership
FEATURING
iMpact
20. Reinventing Global Expansion Strategy
and Market Dynamics
ARTICLES
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Partners
Directing Strategic Transitions in Business Ownership
Cover STORY
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T he strategic advisory industry
guides business owners
through complex transitions,
particularly when preparing for exits.
With a focus on enhancing business
value and facilitating successful
liquidity events, advisors provide
essential expertise to navigate the
myriad challenges associated with
ownership transitions. Business owners
seeking to maximize the value of their
enterprises require comprehensive
support that addresses not only
financial metrics but also operational
and strategic considerations. This
industry thrives on fostering
relationships that empower owners to
realize their goals and smoothly
transition to the next phase of their
professional journeys.
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A critical aspect of this
process is the shift in
the owner's mindset
towards value creation
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necessary milestones within a specified
timeframe. Once the plan is in place,
individual and team responsibilities are
assigned, with achievements closely
monitored through regular meetings to
ensure accountability and facilitate
problem-solving.
Integrated Strategies
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The rst step is to establish the
current value and its
components, which allows for the
development of a targeted and
quanti ed improvement plan
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master planning and advisor
coordination to deliver the essential
elements for a successful transition and
exit from business ownership. Succession planning is a critical component of legacy
Rizolve's advisory model encompasses planning, ensuring that people and operational
both the preparation of the exit plan
and its implementation, guiding clients systems maintain legacy elements into the future.
through the transaction where an
investment banker creates the private
market and bid process and onwards to
a successful conclusion and transition.
understanding what is necessary to required to facilitate implementation of
Bridging Knowledge Gaps successfully reach their goals. the roadmap. These services
At a certain stage in an owner's complement the operational team
Rizolve Partners identified a gap in the thinking, Rizolve can assist in responsible for ongoing business
market for its services, stemming from consolidating their exit plan. Through growth and optimization, identifying
the lack of education for business discussion and discovery, the firm the incremental strategies necessary for
owners regarding the comprehensive helps owners refine their strategies. In a successful transition to value and
actions necessary to achieve a many cases, this marks the beginning liquidity.
successful exit at optimal value. The of a long-term relationship, allowing
firm is committed to educating owners Rizolve to support owners on their Distinct Advantages of a Boutique
about the steps required for a journey and facilitate introductions to Advisory Approach
successful transition from multiple other advisors needed to develop their
perspectives. To this end, Rizolve exit and value growth plans. The boutique approach offers several
actively participates in collaborative advantages:
educational workshops that unite The services offered are strategic in
aligned advisor groups. These events nature, enabling advisors to bring • It targets the lower mid-market
provide a roadmap, enabling owners to together the resources and skills segment, which larger
fill in knowledge gaps and begin
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• consultancies do not serve at scale. in a targeted and quantified Succession planning is vital for
• It assembles an exceptional team improvement plan. sustainability and is a key legacy
of former executives with a multi- aspect. Developing an organizational
disciplinary approach. Key areas of improvement often plan that addresses the company's
• It unites aligned advisor groups include the following strategies: capacity needs during scaling is
essential for addressing the wide integral to the advisory engagement.
range of issues encountered in • Development of a strategic plan.
optimizing value. • Documentation of the sales Comprehensive Financial Planning
• It employs a team-oriented pipeline by customer and prospect, for Scalable Growth and Investment
strategy that adapts throughout the forming the basis for revenue Strategies
plan's lifecycle based on the plans and forecasts.
client's needs. • Creation of a tactical plan (12 An appropriately organized financial
• It incorporates certified techniques months) that quantifies goals and plan that accounts for the resources
for delivering value growth and objectives and establishes necessary to scale is a critical
executing liquidity plans accountabilities for delivery. component of any strategic plan, and
effectively. • Organizational planning and Rizolve emphasizes this for all clients.
• It maintains the agility to execute operational KPIs for delivery and Ensuring that relevant scenarios are
professionally while integrating capacity planning. addressed when assessing financial
senior-level expertise at the • Strategic human resource needs is also essential to maintaining a
appropriate stages. management planning. sufficient financial "moat" capable of
• The partners are actively involved • Strategic marketing planning to managing various circumstances as a
as leaders throughout the support growth objectives outlined risk mitigation strategy for all growing
engagement timeline. in the strategic plan. companies.
Tailored Strategies for Incremental Strategic Succession Planning for Rizolve assists clients with evaluating,
Value Delivery and Improvement Sustainable Legacy Management preparing, and presenting opportunities
Planning to financial institutions.
Succession planning is a critical
Numerous strategies can be employed component of legacy planning, When specific investments extend
to incrementally deliver value. ensuring that people and operational beyond working capital financing, the
systems maintain legacy elements into nature of these investments becomes
Each client's strategy is tailored to their the future. important for determining the
specific circumstances. A key appropriate sources of finance. Rizolve
differentiator for Rizolve is assessing Legacy is documented through the aids clients in identifying the most
optimal strategies for each situation to following components: suitable sources of finance and the
maximize value delivery. Experience appropriate providers for each
indicates that achieving quick wins is • Business track record situation.
essential for building confidence within • The value that products and
the team responsible for execution, services add to the community Essential Factors for Building a
leading to enhanced performance and • The culture that defines the Strong Foundation for Scalable
greater overall achievements. organization's operations Growth
• The brand identity that the
The first step is to establish the current company promotes, markets, and Rizolve identifies several key factors
value and its components. Once delivers to service standards essential for any company aiming to
documented, an improvement plan can establish a solid foundation for the
be crafted that focuses on the value Rizolve assesses the quality of these future, particularly when planned
drivers where enhancements can be legacy elements within the scaling is a primary objective. These
made. Rizolve employs software to organization and identifies factors include:
benchmark 24 distinct value drivers, improvement strategies based on the
evaluating the quality of created assets significance of legacy to the owner and • Leadership and senior
against best-in-class industry the desire to enhance a secure and management
standards. This analysis allows for the sustainable legacy. • Human resources
development of a hierarchy of • Recurring revenues
improvement opportunities, resulting • Margin
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• Financial and operational the transaction and populating the due
reporting diligence data room. This information
• Sales plan and process facilitates transaction due diligence and
• Operations and capacity the preparation of sales documents,
• Customer satisfaction such as the Confidential Information
Memorandum (CIM).
Key Criteria for Success in Growing
Markets Furthermore, with the comprehensive
knowledge acquired about the client,
The following criteria are considered Rizolve is well-positioned to advise on
essential for companies looking to management presentations to
succeed in large and growing markets: prospective buyers and address due
diligence inquiries.
• Addressing large, growing markets
• Offering in-demand products and Experienced Leadership Team with
services Proven Transaction Execution Skills
• Demonstrating a track record of
performance Each partner has held senior positions
• Providing clear future prospects at global companies, including CEO,
• Maintaining a capable CFO, Head of Sales and Marketing,
management team Head of Human Resources, and Data
• Achieving strong margins relative Analytics.
to competitors
• Generating strong cash flow or Each partner's typical career tenure
promising future cash flow exceeds 35 years. The team has been
• Presenting strong customer assembled to ensure that experience is
satisfaction data (e.g., Net complementary, with strategy and
Promoter Score) leadership being shared competencies.
• Operating with a trained
workforce, disciplined operations, All partners and senior advisors
and documented systems possess extensive experience in
executing transactions.
Collaborative Advisory for Effective
Exit Planning and Transaction Client Acquisition Focused on
Execution Motivated and Coachable Owners
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The Evolving Role of
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From Strategy to Execu on
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teams, offering a comprehensive that arise during implementation, modernize and adopt more sustainable
approach to both strategy and ensuring that projects remain on track. practices.
execution. This ongoing involvement helps to
reduce the gap between strategy and The Bottom Line
Moreover, consultants today are execution and makes it easier to pivot
expected to be multi-disciplinary. when necessary. The shift towards consultants
Firms that previously focused on becoming more involved in execution
strategy are now incorporating Consultants in Canada: Supporting has had a significant impact on the
expertise in project management, data Key Industries value they provide to clients. Today's
analytics, change management, and consultants are not only helping
digital transformation. This range of The role of consultants has proven companies devise new strategies but
expertise allows consultants to take on especially important in certain also ensuring that those strategies are
an active role in ensuring the industries where rapid changes are brought to life. This hands-on
successful delivery of projects, from occurring. In Canada, for example, involvement means that consultants
early planning stages to post- industries like health care, energy, and must be highly adaptable, skilled in
implementation analysis. technology have seen a surge in multiple disciplines, and able to work
demand for consulting services that closely with teams to meet project
Collaborative Relationships with extend beyond strategy formulation. goals.
Clients
In the health sector, for instance, many
One of the most significant changes in hospitals and health organizations are
consulting has been the shift towards turning to consultants to help
closer collaboration with clients. implement new technologies, improve
Historically, consultants worked patient outcomes, and manage cost-
independently, delivering their findings efficiency. Consultants are no longer
in reports or presentations. Today, just advising on what should be
however, consultants work directly done—they are actively managing
with client teams, often becoming projects, setting up systems, and
integrated into the day-to-day training staff to ensure that these
operations of the business. strategies deliver results. The
complexity of healthcare systems and
This closer relationship allows the increasing demand for better care
consultants to understand the has made consultants crucial partners
intricacies of the client's operations and in driving real change within
adjust strategies as needed. For organizations.
example, consultants in the retail sector
may work with sales teams to help Similarly, the energy sector is
them adopt new strategies for customer undergoing a transformation, with
engagement, while also assisting with businesses seeking advice on
the training required for smooth everything from sustainability
execution. This hands-on approach is a practices to technological
departure from the traditional model, advancements. Consultants are needed
where consultants offered a one-size- not only for their expertise in the
fits-all solution without necessarily energy market but also to support the
being involved in the details of implementation of new systems and
execution. practices that comply with both local
and international regulations. Their
A more integrated consulting approach ability to bridge the gap between
also allows for faster feedback loops. strategic vision and operational success
When consultants work directly with is essential as businesses aim to
clients, they can quickly address issues
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iMpact
Reinventing Global Expansion Strategy
and Market Dynamics
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markets to enhance client product and chains, robust research capabilities, collaborate across diverse cultural and
service visibility. The company's and aligned national priorities have linguistic landscapes. This cross-
services facilitate the establishment of contributed to the advantageous cultural expertise is instrumental in
local networks and collaborations with position of companies within these bridging communication and
businesses, media, government bodies, sectors. These entities typically excel understanding gaps between Chinese
and consumers, essential components in offering products characterized by clients and their international
regardless of geographical location. competitive pricing and exceptional audiences and partners, making team
Local staff and vendors are integral to quality standards. members invaluable assets to iMpact.
ensuring authentic localization in each
market while maintaining consistency Essential Traits for Global Team Core Principles of Growth
in fundamental marketing strategies. Success
iMpact enables Chinese companies to At iMpact, several fundamental
excel in meeting global consumer At iMpact, two indispensable qualities principles underscore our rapid growth
expectations for high-quality products define the ideal team members. Firstly, as an agency. Key phrases such as
at competitive prices. every staff member must exhibit "think big," "only results," and "make
unwavering independence and it possible" encapsulate the essence of
Tailored Solutions for Global resourcefulness. Operating entirely our ethos. Achieving impactful
Market Success remotely, each individual is tasked outcomes in our challenging line of
with delivering results despite the work demands ambition and
iMpact caters to a diverse clientele, challenges of solitary work across resourcefulness—traits that are central
spanning from the world's largest solar different time zones. This self-reliant to our approach. We emphasize
panel manufacturer to international and driven mindset is fundamental to continual improvement with the mantra
financial service providers and small operational success. "better than yesterday," recognizing
home appliance sellers on Amazon. that each project presents new
The company excels in tailoring its Secondly, cultural versatility is challenges that require learning on the
services to meet the specific needs of paramount. The entire team boasts go. This commitment to ongoing
each client, who vary in product extensive experience living in both development not only enhances our
offerings, tenure in international China and Western countries, enabling organizational effectiveness but also
markets, and localization requirements. them to seamlessly navigate and fosters the professional growth of every
While these aspects differ widely collaborate across diverse cultures and team member.
across clients, iMpact consistently languages. This cultural fluency is
operates at a rapid pace and guarantees crucial as we bridge gaps between Driving Innovation
tangible outcomes. Central to its Chinese clients and their global
services is enhancing client visibility audiences and partners. Ultimately, In the competitive environment of
and localizing its branding in team members, with their cross- iMpact, innovation and continual
international markets, areas where cultural expertise, constitute the most evolution are intrinsic to the company's
iMpact concentrates much of its valuable asset. ethos. Operating amidst dynamic
efforts. economic and geopolitical landscapes,
Essential Team Qualities where clients navigate daily
Dominant Chinese Industries in challenges, the team remains
Global Markets At iMpact, two critical qualities define inherently motivated to adapt and
an ideal team member. Firstly, a strong thrive. Maintaining agility and a
Chinese companies demonstrate emphasis is placed on independence commitment to innovation is
significant global competitiveness and resourcefulness. Given the remote imperative for sustained growth and
across various industries, with a nature of iMpact's operations, where success in attracting new clients. The
notable concentration among the every team member is tasked with high stakes underscore the importance
clientele in sectors where they have delivering results from different time of maintaining a strong reputation,
achieved dominant market positions. zones, a proactive and self-motivated reinforcing the team's drive to deliver
These industries primarily include approach is essential for success. professional excellence and avoid
clean energy and electric vehicles pitfalls that could impact client trust.
(such as solar panels, energy storage, Secondly, cultural fluency is This environment fosters a culture
and batteries), biotechnology, and paramount. All team members have where innovation and peak
consumer technology encompassing extensive experience living in both performance are not just aspirations
tech accessories, home appliances, and China and Western countries, enabling but essential strategies for leadership in
gadgets. Evolving Chinese supply them to effectively navigate and the industry.
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The Realities of
as a Consultant in
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Challenges and Rewards
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Even those working in consulting firms As a consultant, managing these may involve heavy workloads, making
may have some flexibility in how they expectations is key to building strong it challenging to separate work from
organize their work, particularly in client relationships. personal life.
firms that embrace remote work or
flexible hours. For many consultants in In addition, consultants frequently Conclusion
Canada, the ability to manage their have to work with clients who may not
own time is a significant draw. fully understand the consulting Consulting in Canada can be a highly
process. This can lead to rewarding career that offers variety,
3. Financial Rewards miscommunications or unrealistic autonomy, and the chance to make a
expectations, which can strain the significant impact on businesses across
Consulting can be a financially consultant-client relationship. Effective multiple industries. However, it is also
lucrative career. Consultants often communication and setting clear a profession that comes with its share
charge premium rates for their boundaries are critical to overcoming of challenges, from managing client
expertise, and depending on the this challenge. expectations to balancing multiple
industry and level of specialization, projects and maintaining a healthy
these rates can be quite high. In 2. Workload and Time Management work-life balance.
addition, experienced consultants may
have the opportunity to take on larger, For consultants, balancing multiple
more profitable projects that bring in projects at once can be one of the
significant revenue. toughest aspects of the job. Particularly
for those working as independent
While many consultants in Canada are contractors, the workload can fluctuate
independent contractors, others work greatly from month to month, with
for large consulting firms, where periods of intense activity followed by
compensation can include base slower times. Managing multiple
salaries, performance bonuses, and clients, each with its own set of needs,
other perks. The potential to earn a timelines, and expectations, requires
competitive salary, along with the strong time management skills.
possibility of performance-based
bonuses or profit-sharing, can make For consultants who work for
consulting a very rewarding profession consulting firms, the workload can still
from a financial perspective. be demanding, with tight deadlines and
long hours. In some cases, consultants
The Realities and Challenges of may feel like they are always on the
Consulting in Canada clock, especially when dealing with
clients in different time zones or when
While consulting can be a highly they need to be available for urgent
rewarding profession, it is not without requests.
its difficulties. Here are some of the
common challenges that consultants in 3. Maintaining Work-Life Balance
Canada face:
While consulting offers flexibility, it
1. Client Expectations and Pressure can also make it difficult to maintain a
consistent work-life balance.
Consultants are often brought in to Independent consultants, in particular,
solve specific business problems, and may find themselves working late into
clients may expect quick results. This the night to meet deadlines or working
pressure can create high expectations, on weekends to ensure projects are
and clients may be disappointed if they completed on time. The nature of
do not see immediate improvements. consulting means that some periods
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Naburva
Business
Solutions Inc.
I n performance enhancement and
comprehensive problem-solving,
there exists a dynamic industry
dedicated to refining organizational
efficiency and efficacy. This sector
thrives on the ethos of excellence,
consistently setting benchmarks and
striving for unparalleled results.
Rooted in the core principles of
strategic analysis and holistic
improvement, this industry plays a
,
Pioneering Excellence in Business Solutions
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Kashan Awais
CEO
Naburva Business Solutions Inc.
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Secondly, we believe in providing a Can you detail the range of services to a false sense of accomplishment or a
full-spectrum solution to the problem provided by Naburva? What are the mistaken feeling of failure. Let me
we are helping our clients address. We key domains or industries where explain this. I could say a project
don't believe in just addressing the Naburva specializes, and how do you resulted in a 70% reduction in
symptoms; rather, we make sure we are ensure expertise in these areas? processing time. Could I consider this
addressing the root of the problem. For alone as a measure of success? What if
example, a mandate around process Our services can be categorized into there was a great deal of uncertainty,
improvement essentially involves two major branches – management mistrust, and resentment among the
change. So, unless an effective change consulting and training. Within the stakeholders? What if some key
management mechanism is in place, domain of management consulting, we contributors left the organization due to
focusing only on the technical aspect provide services in the areas of their discomfort with change? What if
of process redesign will not be of much business strategy, human resources and the investment was so huge that it
help to the client. Similarly, an talent management, and process offset the financial gain, resulting in a
assignment involving building a improvement projects, whereas our negative NPV? Conversely, if a project
culture of learning or engagement will training and certification programs apparently seems to have no direct ROI
not be fully productive in the absence include HR Project Management, Lean in dollar amount, should it essentially
of any leadership development Six Sigma, and Leadership. be considered a failure? What if the
component. So, we define the scope of ROI is intangible, such as better
our project in such a way that it aims to Could you share some notable leadership quality or higher
address the root cause of a problem success stories or case studies where engagement and retention of the top
rather than just cosmetic changes to the Naburva's services made a talent? So, I measure success in
process. significant impact on client broader terms on multiple parameters.
businesses? How does Naburva We consider a project successful when
As the CEO, what inspired you to measure the success of its consulting we have helped our client move the
establish Naburva Business interventions? needle based on the aggregate effect of
Solutions Inc.? Could you elaborate the impact across multiple areas that
on the strategic vision of the We have completed numerous we have helped them improve.
company and how it aligns with the assignments in multiple areas, adding
current market trends and client tremendous value to our clients' By Zonish Memon – PR Executive
needs? businesses. For example, we worked and Brand Ambassador
on a project that involved the
It started back in 2019 when I was automation of the time & attendance What strategies does Naburva
reading a report on SMEs published by process. We helped the client switch employ to establish and maintain
Statistics Canada. The report indicated from a manual, paper-based process to strong relationships with its clients?
that nearly half of the startups in a biometric attendance management How does Naburva ensure
Canada fail to survive past their 10th system, which led to a total elimination transparent communication and
anniversary, and about one-third are of the risk of human errors, slashing of collaboration throughout the
unable to make it past their 5th, and the processing time by more than 85%, consulting process?
here we are talking about pre-COVID and significant improvement in the
numbers. The data was shocking to me. accuracy of payroll system, and a deep At Naburva Business Solutions, we
I started thinking about how I could sense of trust on the new process. build strong client relationships
help startups and small businesses Another example would be a project through empowerment, transparency,
establish their businesses on a that we did on process improvement and customized solutions. We
strategically sound footing and attain but provided leadership development empower clients by transferring skills
sustainable growth by bringing workshops as a part of our scope, and knowledge, enabling them to
consulting services within the which enabled our client to effectively manage their operations independently.
affordability of these small businesses. maneuver change, manage This approach fosters trust and reduces
This is the motivation that led to the stakeholders, and build engagement long-term dependency. Transparency is
birth of Naburva in November 2019. surrounding the new process. a cornerstone of our methodology,
We have evolved since then and have ensuring clients are fully informed
now extended the scope of our services To the second part of your question, I about project expectations, progress,
to larger-sized organizations as well, don't define success by a single and outcomes, which builds credibility.
adding more components to our parameter. To me, it would be a pretty
portfolio of services. narrow definition and could either lead Our process involves close
collaboration with clients, ensuring
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that solutions are tailored to meet their
specific needs and enhancing their
commitment to project success. By
focusing on leadership development, we
equip client teams with management
tools, creating a performance multiplier
effect and achieving sustainable
improvements.
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experience. Once a team member
comes on board, they experience:
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,
The future
belongs to those who believe in
the beauty of their dreams.
YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE GREAT
TO START, BUT YOU HAVE TO
START TO BE GREAT.
- Zig Ziglar
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