What is an Advisory Bench?
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An Advisory Bench is a trusted group of experienced operators and specialists who help CEOs solve growth-stage problems through practical insight, honest perspective, and ongoing involvement.
“Advisory Boards are river guides. They've taken the same journey you're on, or at least a very similar one.”
Chris Hessler, CEO
Purpose
Get better decisions through better perspective. The Advisory Bench gives CEOs experienced voices outside their day-to-day operations so they can spot blind spots, think more strategically, and lead with greater confidence.
Practice
A strong Advisory Board is active, structured, and ongoing. That means regular conversations, consistent engagement, and trusted advisors who stay connected to the business as challenges and opportunities evolve.
People
An Advisory Board brings together a deep bench of experienced operators, founders, industry specialists, and business leaders with different perspectives and real-world experience. Advisors stay actively engaged through ongoing conversations, problem-solving, accountability, and strategic guidance as the business evolves.
Discussions & Decisions
The Advisory Bench helps support the conversations that shape the future of a company.
- growth strategy
- hiring decisions
- leadership challenges
- scaling operations
- market expansion
- acquisitions
- partnerships
- organizational structure
- succession planning
- preparing for an exit
The Role of the Advisor
- Bring outside perspective grounded in experience
- Challenge assumptions and uncover blind spots
- Stay actively involved as the business evolves
- Help CEOs think more strategically
- Create accountability and forward movement
- Open doors to talent, partnerships, and opportunities
- Support leadership during growth and change
- Strengthen confidence in difficult decisions
“Sometimes the most valuable thing an advisor brings isn't an answer. It's a better question.”
Chris Hessler, CEO
When an Advisory Board Isn't Working
Signs
- Conversations lack depth or direction
- Advisors rarely challenge thinking
- Meetings stop producing action
- Engagement fades between sessions
Steps
- Reevaluate the advisor mix
- Clarify priorities and expectations
- Improve meeting structure and accountability
- Add advisors with stronger alignment or expertise
“70% of the value of an Advisory Board comes from how it is used.”
Chris Hessler, CEO
The Advisory Bench Difference
Advisory Bench vs. Informal Network
An informal network gives occasional advice. An Advisory Bench provides ongoing perspective, accountability, and involvement.
What an Advisory Bench Is Not
It’s not consulting, casual conversations, or a passive group on paper. A real bench stays engaged and involved.
Advisory Board vs. Fiduciary Board
An Advisory Bench provides guidance and perspective, not governance or formal control over the company.