Ballsy candidate aspires to kick Owners out of their own company

Bold ambitions: Candidate’s audacious plan to overthrow corporate leadership raises eyebrows

In a recent talent acquisition process, I encountered a particularly unconventional candidate vying for a mid-level managerial role within our organization. While the role represents a step down from his previous position as a Vice President elsewhere, I approached the interview with an open mind, considering that he might be seeking a different scope of responsibilities or work environment.

During our conversation, I asked the candidate about his reasons for transitioning from his former role. His response was surprising: he articulated a desire not just to join our team, but to surpass the performance of both myself and the other Vice President, eventually aiming to assume our positions, and ultimately, to take over the CEO’s chair. Interestingly, he expressed that this ambition was hindered at his current employer because it is an owner-operated business where such ambitions are more constrained.

I made it clear that our organization is also owner-operated, and that our leadership team—including the President, Vice President of Operations, and myself—has no plans for retirement or leadership changes in the near future. His statement was bold, perhaps overly confident, especially given his lack of industry-specific experience.

This encounter highlights the importance of assessing candidates not just on their skills, but also on their mindset and professionalism. While ambition can be a motivating factor, it must be balanced with realistic expectations and a respectful approach to organizational structure. As we continue our recruitment efforts, such dialogues serve as a reminder of the diverse perspectives candidates bring—and the need to ensure their ambitions align with the company’s culture and strategic direction.