About Hugh Latif & Associates
Not all consulting services are created equal and hiring the wrong people could be the reason you haven’t been able to get the results you want. You might have already spent too much while getting too little in return for your time and money wasted on the wrong team. Or, you might have heard horror stories of consultants that offer band-aid answers, impractical solutions using templates and a one-size-fits all philosophy at outrageous prices. Imagine taking a totally different approach and investing in a refreshing new way of inviting your dream team into your corner. We know that you don’t have time, money or resources to waste on things that don’t work, or only work marginally. I’m so glad that we’re on the same page! We believe in a custom-made approach that looks at your unique situation, industry, numbers, format and needs with a tailor-made methodology specifically designed to help you succeed in the critical care areas of your business. If it doesn’t bring results and breakthrough, we only get hungrier to make sure that you obtain your target. We do this with a commitment to practical, evidence-based consulting deeply rooted in our history of winning results for clients just like you. As our client you are our priority. We are uncompromising in our craft and are passionate about bringing you incredible value through outstanding problem-solving and down-to-earth solutions. Our consulting expertise in sales, marketing, finance, human resources, operations and IT is structured to deliver powerful strategies that will transform your business performance.
Prior to taking on a consulting assignment, we take time to listen carefully to your needs, then present a proposal that spells out the scope of the assignment, how are we going to do it, what the deliverables are, how long the assignment will take to be completed and what the investment will be. This proposal becomes our "work order".
How do I know if you will be able to help me with my problem?
Prior to taking on a consulting assignment, we take time to listen carefully to your needs, then present a proposal that spells out the scope of the assignment, how are we going to do it, what the deliverables are, how long the assignment will take to be completed and what the investment will be. This proposal becomes our "work order".
What is your expertise?
We provide a wide range of general consulting services, but our specific expertise is in strategy, sales, marketing and succession planning. We also have solid expertise with organizational development and executive coaching. For other functions such as operations, production, finance, human resources, executive search, IT and other specialized fields, we have alliances with carefully selected consultants that we refer clients to. For members of our team PLEASE CLICK HERE.
What type of businesses have you worked for/with?
We have worked on a good variety of businesses including start-ups, businesses in the Growth Stage and Turn-Arounds (businesses in trouble). We specialize in small and mid-size businesses with annual sales ranging from as low as $1 million to $30 million.
Where are your clients located?
Most of our clients are in the GTA and Southern Ontario. We have some international clients.
What is an Advisory board?
An advisory board consists usually of a representation of the ownership and management of a company with one or more external advisors. The advisory board meets on a regular basis to advise the CEO (owner – President) on strategy, business policies, remuneration etc. The advisory board is like a board of directors in public companies. For more on boards and corporate governance PLEASE CLICK HERE.
What type of industries have you worked with?
We have done assignments with manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, business services and technology companies. For a sample of assignments, see below.
Can you briefly describe the process you follow in advising a client?
Let’s assume that ABC Company has come to you because their sales and profits have been down for the last three years. They have been unable to grow their business. What do you do?
This is a typical assignment. We interview the senior management team. We review the management’s previous work, analysis, research, actions etc. We review the market place dynamics including customer needs and competitors and conduct our own research. We discuss with management possible solutions and alternative actions to re-ignite the company’s sales engine. Together, we establish a plan that usually spells out the objectives, the milestones and the resources needed to get the job done. We usually also put an incentive plan to reward the achievement of the desired objectives.
While this is the usual plan, many issues or curve balls surface during the process. Here is a sample: Managers in the wrong place or with the inappropriate set of skills, office politics, family issues, bickering and rivalry between managers, lack of team play, greed of owners etc.
These and other problems represent obstacles to the proper execution of the plan. We deal with these problems as best as possible, while keeping our independence and objectivity. Our experience and diplomatic skills come into play to suggest practical solutions that can overcome these obstacles effectively.
Aren’t large consulting companies better equipped to render service vs. a small firm like you?
We provide a comprehensive range of services without the overhead of large consulting firms. What you see is what you get. You have experienced senior consultants working with you rather than recent business school graduates. Our consultants have proven their expertise and achievements in their respective fields. You do not get academic and intellectual suggestions but practical and down-to-earth advice and counsel. Our battle-tested expertise emanates from hard-won experience rather than academic knowledge. For team members profiles including their academic achievements and professional designations PLEASE CLICK HERE.
How can I be sure that your consultants are ethical and professional?
Our small consulting practice takes pride in our code of ethics, integrity and adherence to the highest professional standards. Our consultants are chosen carefully, and their ethics come before their expertise and field of experience. In fact, I write about this very issue of good character being the first step to business success in my book Maverick Leadership. Our reputation and track record speak for itself. For our code of ethics, see above. For testimonials and clients feedback PLEASE CLICK HERE.
Are you affiliated with other companies?
Our firm is a member of several professional associations including The EXPERION Group, The Canadian Federation of Independent Business, The Toronto Board of Trade, King Chamber of Commerce, BDC Advisory and The Canadian Professional Sales Association.
"Thanks for your help in setting up our succession plan. Family business decisions can get quite emotional and your ability to stay calm and give honest and straightforward advice is greatly appreciated. Caroline and I have already taken steps to move forward with many of your recommendations."
Sandra Martens, B. Sc.
Vice President Sales
Resources
View our latest BLOG with practical and proven advice on management and leadership skills.
Maverick Leadership
Are you an entrepreneur who wants to grow your business? A business manager who wants to get promoted and move up the corporate ladder?
"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another."
Proverbs 27:17
CALL US
(416) 229-0520
Location
400 Applewood Crescent, Vaughan ON
info@hughlatif.com