Managing Director – Niche International Manufacturer – UK

Scenario

Our client, an international manufacturing business, had identified the need for a fresh approach and alternative leadership for their UK division to ensure growth targets and group expectations were met. With difficulties across both production and sales, the business was experiencing low staff morale and a mounting pressure to deliver change.

The organisation had a long-standing relationship with Michael Page previously, at various levels and throughout Europe. We were contacted by their VP for European operations, based in France, about finding a replacement for their UK MD. He came to Leeds to meet with Dan McEwen, and Page Executive was retained to fill the MD role.

We were briefed to search for a proven leader with appropriate exposure to complex, mechanically-orientated manufacturing businesses and an appreciation of bespoke, project led production. Change management skills and the ability to revitalise the commercial outlook of the business were viewed as critical elements to a successful recruit.

Solution

Based on the requirements, we proposed a combined search and advertised selection approach to the recruitment. The role was advertised selectively, both on and offline, with extensive response. A target list of organisations was also compiled, compromising of businesses of a similar size involved in bespoke product manufacturing on a project basis.

A shortlist of five candidates was presented to our client. The recruitment was then put on hold pending potential internal restructures at group-level, and when the process resumed we were able to put forward a second shortlist of qualified candidates.

Outcome

The interview process concluded with an offer being made to, and accepted by a candidate from the second shortlist. Our client was pleased that we’d understood their requirements well and were able to provide an additional shortlist when required. It’s early days, but they’re very happy with the fit of their new MD.

Client Testimonial

Page Executive provided a great service, understanding my requirements but importantly challenging my thinking. They provided a great range of candidates and helped our sell while setting expectations around salary.  I was impressed with the thoroughness shown by Page Executive in understanding our business requirements and, in particular, our culture. The specification for the MD in Leeds was a complex one, but Page Executive understood our needs very quickly.

- VP, European operations