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The Greatest Leap report , commissioned by leading business advisory and accountancy firm , Menzies , surveyed 500 UK CEOs , MDs , COOs and founders to understand the challenges they face as they attempt to scale . The findings paint a concerning picture of the ‘ people problem ’ in UK businesses – a leadership and workforce gap that could stifle the country ’ s economic ambitions .

Over half ( 55 %) of businesses surveyed stated that people management was the single biggest challenge they are facing in the present economic environment – including hiring , retention and managing company culture .

And what ’ s more is that almost one in three UK business leaders ( 32 %) report struggling to build a competent senior management team . And for those who do , the same percentile ( 32 %) admit that their inability to confidently delegate decisions down the chain has been a major obstacle to growth . This reluctance to hand over control is keeping leaders bogged down in daily operations instead of focusing on strategic , long-term objectives .

And this ‘ people problem ’ is not just limited to the most senior levels . The report reveals that 98 % of large businesses have faced wider workforce-related issues , and 55 % of business leaders said people management – including hiring , retention and managing company culture – is the single biggest challenge they are facing .

“ The ability to build a capable team is fundamental to scaling a business : the right people are often the deciding factor between success and stagnation ,” said Ed Hussey , People Solutions Director at Menzies . “ A failure to secure the right people , particularly at the senior level , creates a domino effect – leaders can ’ t focus on the bigger picture , and the business misses out on growth opportunities . And when firms struggle to scale , it impacts more than just their bottom line . It ’ s a major roadblock to achieving the kind of high-growth , innovation-driven economy the UK needs .”

To support business leaders in overcoming these challenges , Menzies has developed a comprehensive guide , ‘ Are You Ready for The Greatest Leap : How to Accelerate Your Business Ambitions ’. The guide provides strategic advice on how to navigate the complex transition from medium-sized to large enterprises , with a chapter focused on overcoming people-related obstacles . From developing leadership teams to implementing effective HR practices and creating a strong company culture , the guide offers actionable insights designed to help businesses thrive . x

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