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ToggleIntroduction to the Expansion
Third Stage Consulting is embarking on an exciting journey of expansion into the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) region. With a strong foundation in the United States and a growing presence in other parts of the world, the consultancy is poised to bring its unparalleled expertise in digital transformation to more clients in these diverse and dynamic markets. This strategic move is led by Aaron Patterson, who has recently joined Third Stage Consulting as the new Executive Vice President for the EMEA region.
Aaron Patterson’s Background and Expertise
Aaron Patterson brings over 25 years of experience in guiding clients through complex digital transformations across various industries and geographical locations. His career has spanned a range of company types, including startups, public entities, and private equity-backed firms. Notably, he most recently served as the president of a private equity-backed firm that grew from a North American base of 30 staff to a global operation with 350 employees. Patterson’s vast experience and strategic vision are expected to play a crucial role in Third Stage Consulting’s EMEA expansion.
Why Third Stage Consulting?
Third Stage Consulting’s unique value proposition lies in its technology-agnostic approach to digital transformation. This means the firm is committed to providing unbiased, high-quality consulting services that prioritize the best interests of its clients, free from the influence of specific technology vendors. This customer-centric ethos is a significant draw for businesses seeking genuinely tailored solutions to their digital transformation challenges. Additionally, the opportunity to work with Eric Kimberling, Third Stage’s CEO, once again was a compelling factor for Patterson, who has previously collaborated with Kimberling on international projects, including a significant initiative in South Africa for Eskom.
The Vision for EMEA
The expansion into the EMEA region is a strategic move aimed at providing exceptional customer service and support on a global scale. Third Stage Consulting’s goal is to ensure that clients in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa have access to the same high standards of service and expertise that have made the firm a leader in digital transformation consulting in the US. This involves building a robust local presence with the right talent and resources to meet the specific needs of clients in these regions.
Phased Approach to Expansion
The expansion will be carried out in a phased approach. Initially, Third Stage Consulting will engage with its existing international clients and teams to assess current performance and identify areas for improvement. This comprehensive evaluation will inform both short- and long-term initiatives designed to enhance service delivery and support for clients’ digital transformation projects. The phased approach ensures that Third Stage Consulting can build on its existing successes while strategically addressing any challenges that arise.
Navigating Global Trends and Opportunities
Digital transformation is a rapidly evolving field, with new technologies and trends emerging constantly. One of the key objectives of Third Stage Consulting’s EMEA expansion is to help clients navigate these complexities effectively. Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) present both opportunities and challenges for businesses. Third Stage Consulting aims to help clients distinguish between hype and practical applications, ensuring that technology investments deliver real value.
Leveraging Worldwide Best Practices
Third Stage Consulting’s global experience and expertise are significant assets in its EMEA expansion. The firm’s consultants bring a wealth of knowledge from working on projects around the world, enabling them to apply best practices and innovative solutions to local markets. This global perspective, combined with a deep understanding of regional nuances, positions Third Stage Consulting to deliver customized, effective solutions that drive client success.
Ambitious Goals for the Future
The vision for Third Stage Consulting’s EMEA region is ambitious. Over the next five years, the firm aims to make EMEA its largest business unit, surpassing even its stronghold in the US. This goal reflects the tremendous potential for growth and impact in the EMEA markets. By focusing on exceptional customer service and building strong relationships, Third Stage Consulting intends to establish itself as the go-to partner for businesses undertaking digital transformation projects in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
Conclusion
Third Stage Consulting’s expansion into the EMEA region, led by Aaron Patterson, represents a significant step forward in the firm’s mission to deliver world-class digital transformation consulting services globally. With a customer-centric, technology-agnostic approach and a wealth of global experience, Third Stage Consulting is well-positioned to meet the needs of clients in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. As the firm embarks on this exciting new chapter, it remains committed to providing exceptional service and support, helping clients navigate the complexities of digital transformation and achieve their strategic objectives.

How Can We Help
At Third Stage Consulting, we’re committed to helping organizations navigate the complexities of digital transformation, including your digital readiness. Whether you’re embarking on a new transformation journey or seeking to optimize existing processes, our team is here to support you every step of the way.