Background
Client: A leading Danish company specializing in the design and manufacture of advanced automation solutions for the logistics industry. Despite their cutting-edge technology and strong market position, the Client struggled to fill a crucial role: Director of Procurement. This role was pivotal for ensuring the efficient sourcing of high-quality materials and electronic components, critical for maintaining their innovation edge and production efficiency.
Challenge: The Client’s in-house HR team, despite being well-equipped and experienced, found it challenging to assess candidates’ technical procurement expertise and strategic vision for procurement in the automation manufacturing context. They had shortlisted candidates but were unsure if these individuals possessed the unique blend of skills required to manage the complex supply chains and foster innovation within their procurement processes.
Solution
Engagement with Procurement Executives ApS: The Client decided to engage Procurement Executives ApS for a “beyond second opinion” service, seeking an external and specialized perspective on their shortlisted candidates.
Initial Assessment: We began with a comprehensive review of the role, understanding its criticality to the Client strategic goals. This included discussions on the technological trends in automation manufacturing, the specific challenges of sourcing in this rapidly evolving sector, and the strategic importance of innovation within the procurement function.
Candidate Evaluation: Leveraging our specialized expertise in procurement and deep understanding of the modern manufacturing landscape, our team conducted in-depth evaluations of the shortlisted candidates. This process included technical interviews, strategic scenario analyses, and personality assessments to gauge not only their procurement expertise but also their fit with Client Innovations’ culture and vision.
Insightful Reporting: We provided the Client with a detailed benchmark report on each candidate, highlighting their strengths, potential areas for development, and their strategic alignment with the company’s long-term objectives. Our report also included recommendations on how each candidate could impact the company’s procurement strategy and innovation trajectory.
Outcome
Strategic Hire: Based on our comprehensive evaluation and insights, the Client was able to make a confident hiring decision. They selected a candidate who not only brought extensive procurement expertise but also had a proven track record of driving innovation within supply chains in the tech industry.
This individual has since played a pivotal role in transforming the Client procurement processes, leading to significant cost savings, improved supplier relationships, and enhanced innovation in their product line.
Long-Term Impact: The successful placement has not only reinforced the Client position as a leader in automation manufacturing but also highlighted the strategic value of procurement in driving innovation. Our “beyond second opinion” service enabled them to make a hire that was not just about filling a role but about bringing on a strategic partner to the executive team.
Partnership and Recognition: The success of this engagement led the Client to view Procurement Executives ApS as a strategic partner for future talent acquisition and strategic consulting needs.
Our role in this critical hire has been recognized as a key factor in their continued success and growth in the competitive automation manufacturing industry.
Conclusion
This case story exemplifies how Procurement Executives specialized second opinion services can provide substantial value to clients in specialized sectors like automation manufacturing.
