A Conversation with Mihai Bajan - Spotlight on Leadership Advisory & Executive Search

We sat down with Mihai Bajan, Managing Partner and Country Manager of Selion Global Romania, to uncover the insights of a seasoned expert in executive search, HR consulting, and talent assessment. Mihai's career spans multiple industries, earning him a reputation as a trusted advisor and strategic growth catalyst.

As we delve into leadership, talent management, and the future of executive search, Mihai shares his concise yet powerful consulting mantra: "Empower, instil trust, set deadlines, grant freedom, foster responsibility, and above all, deliver." He emphasises the importance of cultivating a culture of trust and accountability, where individuals are empowered to take ownership and drive results.

Let's dive deeper into Mihai's expertise and explore the transformative trends shaping the industry's landscape.

Where it Started

Mihai's passion for consulting in executive search was ignited early in his career, drawn by the diversity of industries, functions, and levels of seniority. He recalls his first job in the field, where he learned the value of understanding the process from start to finish. This experience sparked his long-term interest in the industry and taught him the importance of diligence and depth in his work.

How to Succeed in Executive Search

Mihai notes that many assume executive search operates shrouded in secrecy. He emphasises that transparency is critical, and technological advances have significantly enhanced the quality and efficiency of the research and evaluation processes.

He offers valuable advice to senior executives and aspiring professionals alike. He emphasises the importance of adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to learn. When considering a career in executive search, he cautions that the industry demands a unique blend of flexibility, resilience, and adaptability.

Leadership in Balance

As our conversation unfolds, Mihai shares his thoughts on the profound influence of cultural nuances on leadership styles and decision-making processes. He notes that understanding the local cultural context is essential, but equally important is the ability to adapt and draw from a global reservoir of leadership philosophies.

Outside of work, Mihai finds excitement in changing into his gear and heading out to the MX track or tackling an enduro trail in the mountains. Sports are a non-negotiable part of his daily routine, keeping him grounded and energised.

Reflecting on his life, Mihai cherishes three remarkable moments: the day his daughter was born, landing his first job in executive search, and crossing the finish line at his first marathon. Family has become his top priority, providing a crucial sense of balance in his demanding role, where he is tackling a plethora of complexities in talent management, recruitment, and leadership development.

Innovation and Transformation

As our conversation draws to a close, we ask Mihai how he recalibrates and recharges outside of his professional pursuits. He shares that he likes unwinding with a good film. Additionally, he finds his energy in the early morning hours, leveraging the stillness to gain a strategic advantage on the day ahead. When reflecting on his formative years, he fondly recalls the unbridled joy of endless summer nights spent with friends, a carefree existence that instilled in him the value of connection and community.

In our fast-paced times, where conventional wisdom often constrains innovation, Mihai advocates for thoughtfully challenging established norms to drive transformative growth. Embracing a mindset of adaptive disruption, he believes, leaders can unlock new possibilities and accelerate progress. If he could possess one extraordinary ability, it would be the power to pause time, allowing for deeper reflection and absorption of pivotal moments - a skill he encourages leaders to cultivate through mindful presence and intentional pause.

Looking forward to the future, Mihai hopes to influence a transformation in how the executive search industry is perceived, integrating technology to increase efficiency without compromising quality. He defines success as fostering long-term relationships with candidates and clients, delivering results, and building meaningful connections.