The Link Between Entrepreneurial Attributes and SME Ecosystem Orchestration: A Case from the Dutch HR Services Industry

This chapter provides a detailed account of the evolution and internal dynamics (network relationships) at Q-Search, a Dutch ecosystem of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) active in the human resources services industry. More specifically, the chapter explores how the personality of the entrepreneurial orchestrator reflects upon the SME ecosystem forming around her. Using multiple data sources — i.e., interviews, archival search, and direct observation — we first explore the various phases of the ecosystem’s 16-year evolution. Next, we examine the complex interplay between Q-Search’s goals in each phase, the orchestrator’s corresponding attributes/actions, SME partner roles, and the innovative value created. Our findings suggest that studying the psychology of entrepreneurial orchestrators can reveal a great deal about the networks and ecosystems they help shape. At Q-Search, the founding entrepreneur’s vision, authenticity/honesty, passion for a cause, personal initiative, social skill, persistence/grit, ability to conduct self-reflection, and self-efficacy and willingness to change, have proven critical for the ecosystem’s survival and performance.