Case Study: Executive Search

Role: Managing Director

Location: Bromsgrove, Worcestershire

The Brief

A highly respected engineering business with a strong history of profitable trading, sought a commercially astute Managing Director to lead the company through a pivotal period of growth and transition. This executive role was integral to the company’s succession planning, providing a pathway for a Management Buyout (MBO) or equity within the business.

The ideal candidate needed a blend of technical expertise and leadership acumen, capable of driving innovation and growth while embodying the company’s core values of performance, reliability, and service. Beyond technical qualifications, the candidate had to demonstrate a collaborative leadership style and high levels of integrity.

The Challenge

This search involved identifying a leader with engineering or manufacturing expertise who could assure the outgoing directors that their business would thrive under new leadership. As this role was to be based on-site near Bromsgrove, it was important to the client that the candidate was locally-based.

Our Bespoke Solution

Comprehensive Search Methodology

Our tailored recruitment strategy ensured we covered every aspect of the executive search process:

In-Depth Market Analysis: We conducted a detailed study of the industry landscape to identify opportunities and attract suitable candidates.
Targeted Headhunting: Leveraging advanced AI tools and LinkedIn, we reached both active and passive candidates.
Local Expertise: Tapping into our extensive database and network in Worcestershire, Herefordshire, and Gloucestershire, we quickly identified potential candidates meeting the client’s local preference.

Value-Added Services

To enhance the process and ensure client success, we provided:

Interview Training for Hiring Managers: Recognising the client’s limited experience hiring at this level, Laura Hewett conducted a bespoke workshop to equip the directors with effective interview techniques.
Leadership Assessment: Evaluating candidates’ leadership styles to ensure compatibility with the company’s culture and strategic vision.
Job Description Creation: Collaborating closely with the company directors, we created a job description that refined and clarified the role’s objectives.

Collaboration Across Divisions

Our team brought a unique blend of expertise:

Steve Harris – Lead Engineering Consultant, with seven years of experience sourcing engineering talent.
Laura Hewett – Director and Owner, offering executive search expertise and a personal understanding business leadership and succession planning through her own MBO experience.

Rigorous Candidate Evaluation

Every candidate underwent a face-to-face interview to align their career goals with the client’s vision. Shortlisted candidates were presented with a comprehensive assessment of their qualifications and motivations.

The Result

Hewett Recruitment filled this high-stakes role in record time. The first candidate submitted advanced through a rigorous four-stage interview process, including a presentation round, and was offered the role within one month of the initial brief.

Key Outcomes

The new Managing Director has been instrumental in driving growth and innovation, aligning perfectly with the company’s strategic goals.
Within five months, the MD has established themselves as a leader who inspires confidence and delivers results, ensuring a seamless transition for the outgoing directors.

Why Choose Hewett Recruitment for Executive Search?

Hewett Recruitment combines local market expertise, a bespoke approach, and a commitment to delivering exceptional value. By leveraging our specialist knowledge and comprehensive search methodologies, we ensure every placement drives long-term success and aligns with your strategic vision.

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