Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Receiving this award from CanadianSME is a humbling affirmation of the work we do at BES Executive Search Inc. Every search, every partnership, every conversation is rooted in our belief that inclusion has the power to transform organizations—and lives.
This award also belongs to every client who has partnered with us to challenge the status quo and every candidate who has trusted us with their story. Being recognized strengthens our resolve to keep moving forward, knowing that lasting change is built on trust, shared values, and the courage to lead with intention, empathy, and integrity.
A special message or advice to small business owners
Being a small business owner means learning to navigate uncertainty with grit and grace. Embrace setbacks as learning moments and celebrate perseverance as a real win. Don’t wait for ‘perfect’—act on good ideas with care and urgency. Build a supportive network that encourages your growth and holds you accountable. Financial discipline is key, but so is knowing when to take bold risks. Most importantly, don’t lose sight of the “why” behind your work. It’s your anchor when things get hard, and your north star when opportunities arise.
BIPOC Executive Search Inc.
BES Executive Search Inc. —rebranded from BIPOC Executive Search Inc.—is one of the few executive search firms in Canada with a dedicated focus on equity-integrated recruitment. The firm supports organizations in building candidate pools that authentically reflect the diversity of our global society, while also offering a range of EDIA services designed to strengthen employee engagement and workplace cultures.
Named a CivicAction DiverseCity Fellow, Established Professional of the Year by the Canadian Tamil Professionals Association, and Inspirational Leader of the Year by CanadianSME National Business Awards, Kumaran possesses a rare mix of public insight and entrepreneurial drive.

