In today’s competitive market, leadership and culture are increasingly seen as core components of value creation. In a recent Electrifying Growth episode, I sat down with Julie Moore, Director at YSC Consulting, to discuss the importance of leadership in private equity and high-growth companies. Julie’s insights go beyond the standard playbook. She has a human-centered approach, which can be the difference between surviving and thriving.
Leadership as a Lever for Value Creation
Private equity (PE) firms have long focused on financial performance and operational efficiency to drive value, but as Julie points out, many firms are now realizing that leadership is one of the most critical levers of value creation. "We’ve realized that leadership isn’t a nice-to-have; it’s a lever of value creation.” She emphasizes that strong leadership teams can unlock untapped potential within organizations, fostering a culture where innovation, collaboration, and execution thrive.
This shift in perspective is particularly evident in PE firms, where competition has intensified, and the traditional playbooks are no longer sufficient. As Julie notes, “The PE market is so much more saturated than it was five years ago. You're having to look for more ways to accelerate the growth of that company and create higher returns. Leadership is a newer focus area, but it's one that firms cannot afford to overlook anymore.”
Combining Science and Empathy in Leadership Development
Julie’s work at YSC Consulting focuses on the intersection of data-driven insights and human relationships. While many still view leadership coaching as a "soft" field, Julie highlights the importance of combining both art and science in her approach. "There are different tools we use—like personality assessments and team effectiveness data—to ensure that we’re not just working from perceptions," she explains. By grounding leadership development in data, Julie and her team are able to provide actionable insights that drive real change within organizations.
And just as importantly, Julie is clear that leadership is not just about numbers. Empathy and understanding play a significant role in her coaching. She uses metaphors to describe her role, often likening it to a family therapist.
“You have to understand why people are showing up the way they do. They probably have a really good reason for being resistant. There’s a reason why they don’t feel psychologically safe, and it’s my job to meet them where they are.”
This blend of data and human connection is effective in helping leadership teams overcome resistance, align on goals, and ultimately perform at a higher level.
The Importance of Psychological Safety in Teams
One of the central themes of our conversation was the role of psychological safety in driving team effectiveness. Julie explains that trust is foundational to any successful team, and without psychological safety, even the most talented individuals cannot perform to their potential.
“When people don’t feel safe to speak up or share their concerns, it limits what the team can accomplish. You need an environment where people trust that they can be vulnerable without fear of repercussion.”
Key Takeaways for CEOs and Leadership Teams
For CEOs looking to scale their businesses, Julie offers two critical pieces of advice. First, she recommends creating a "personal board of directors"—a trusted group of advisors who can provide diverse perspectives and guidance. "No CEO can know everything, and it's crucial to have people who can fill in the gaps in your knowledge.”
Second, she emphasizes the importance of being willing to question the strategies that have worked so far. "What got you here won’t get you there," Julie says, stressing that scaling a company requires letting go of some of the practices that may have been successful in earlier stages. This adaptability is crucial for long-term growth.
Leadership as a Catalyst for Growth
Julie Moore’s approach to leadership development offers valuable insights for any business leader looking to build a high-performing team. By combining data-driven assessments with a deep understanding of human dynamics, Julie helps leadership teams unlock their full potential. And in today’s competitive market, that potential can be the key differentiator between companies that grow and those that fall behind.
We recognize the power of strong leadership and culture, and their human-centered approach to growth equity ensures that their portfolio companies are set up for long-term success. Whether you’re a CEO looking to scale or a private equity firm seeking to enhance value, the lessons from this episode are clear: leadership is not just a nice-to-have—it’s essential for creating real, lasting value.