Chief Executive Officer – Industrial Manufacturing Company
Search Assignment
CEO – The first assignment for this valued client
Client Organization
Metals Processing: Component suppliers to industrial manufacturers whose end products are big-ticket consumer purchases
$500 million in sales
U.S.-based, international scope
Family-owned and operated for 90+ years
Relationship with Client Organization
Long-Term* with owners and board: Other placements include VP Engineering, VP Sales, VP Human Resources, VP Operations, President – U.S. Operations (2004)
*Our firm has placed every key officer in the company except the CFO.
Client Situation
Highly competitive market
Board was dissatisfied with strategic business direction and wanted new leadership
Key Requirements
International experience
Demonstrated leadership abilities
Capability to work with diverse constituencies: board, lead bank, unions, major customers
Challenges
The board wanted candidates from direct competitors. Members felt individuals from outside the industry would not be able to lead a business they did not “grow up” in. Direct competitors did not have management depth/candidates with requisite skills.
Consultation/Search Execution
Ron advised the client to consider candidates from all metal products manufacturers who met overall profile. Client agreed. Ron presented a qualified slate.
Successful Result
The board selected the unexpected: a candidate who came from a larger company outside of the specific industry, bringing broader perspectives and different skills.
Successful Placement Promotion Path
The CEO is now Chairman of the Board.