Thanks again for the intros. and contact information. As you know, following the threads and doing the reporting properly takes a little time.
So far, the people you connected me with have been candid and professional. Nobody seemed interested in simply taking shots at Mr. Balvinder. Still, I’m hearing a recurring concern: several described him as relatively green for the position, with some estimating that he is years shy of the experience they would normally expect at that level. Others pointed to a need for basic leadership development. A few senior HR leaders have voiced similar concerns off the record.
One recently departed leader was considerably more blunt. He said he left in search of stronger leadership and was deeply disappointed by what he described as Balvinder’s lack of leadership. He also pointed to a pattern he found troubling: when challenged or when things weren’t going his way, Balvinder would repeatedly invoke Jack’s name rather than take ownership himself.
I’ve continued speaking with candidates as well. One told me, “My experience with the Sprouts team was very positive overall. My conversation with Balvinder was different in tone and style.”
I’ve contacted Mr. Balvinder to hear his side and give him a fair opportunity to respond, but I haven’t heard back yet.
For now, I’ll keep working the phones. Similar concerns are coming from enough different directions that there appears to be more context worth understanding. I’d rather take the time to get it right than rush to a conclusion.