Case Study: Recruitment of a Production Director in Industrial Furniture Manufacturing

Who Is This Case Study For?

This case study will be helpful for directors, HR leaders, and hiring managers working in manufacturing and design settings.

If you’re looking for advice on how to find senior production leaders or wondering what makes a great Production Director, this example offers insights into a proven approach.

🎯 The Problem: Finding the Right Leader

A respected manufacturer of bespoke, high-end furniture needed a Production Director for their UK operations. This role was vital for improving production processes and supporting the company’s ambitious growth plans.

The challenge was to find someone who combined strong technical skills, effective leadership, and the ability to align with the company’s goals, including:

• Technical Expertise: Understanding of ERP/MES systems, change management, and mechanical engineering (experience in the furniture sector was preferred).
• Leadership: Able to inspire and manage a team of 22 people, improve production efficiency, and oversee daily performance.
• Alignment with Values: Enthusiastic about the company’s focus on innovation, sustainable practices, and leading design.

The new Production Director had to optimise operations to ensure scalable and efficient growth while also maintaining high-quality standards across the UK and German sites.

🛠️ Our Approach: Recruitment in Four Phases

Phase 1: Defining the Role and Understanding the Needs

We worked closely with the company’s leadership team to refine the job description and clarify long-term expectations.

By analysing the working dynamics of their existing team, we identified the qualities required in the ideal candidate. Ensuring a perfect balance of technical skill and team leadership.

Phase 2: Sourcing Talent

To find the right person, we conducted a targeted search across the manufacturing sector. This process involved:

• Mapping and sourcing 36 potential candidates using our talent database, referrals, and market expertise.
• Assessing professionals with proven success in managing production teams, driving operational change, and meeting performance targets in fast-paced settings.

Phase 3: Evaluating Candidates

Our assessment process was tailored to test both technical skills and personality fit. Key steps included:

• Competency-Based Interviews: To gauge experience with ERP/MES technologies, production oversight, and managing change.
• Performance Scenarios: Assessing how candidates handled KPIs, operational challenges, and tight deadlines.
• Cultural Compatibility: Focusing on communication skills, team motivation, adaptability, and alignment with the company’s values.

Phase 4: Shortlisting and Final Selection

From the original pool of candidates, three finalists were selected. Each had:

• Relevant qualifications in engineering or manufacturing.
• Significant experience in leadership roles, with a strong track record of operational improvements.
• Alignment with the company’s focus on modern manufacturing methods and growth strategies.

👤 The Successful Candidate

The chosen Production Director exceeded expectations, standing out for their:

1. Expertise: Over five years’ experience in furniture manufacturing, with strong hands-on knowledge of ERP/MES systems.
2. Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead and motivate teams, achieving measurable results under pressure.
3. Cultural Fit: A clear alignment with the company’s innovative and entrepreneurial approach, as well as their sustainability goals.

✅ The Results: Transformational Impact

Within a few months of their appointment, the new Production Director achieved remarkable success:

• Productivity Improvements: Implemented a data-driven framework to refine workflows, reduce downtime, and enhance overall performance.
• Stronger Collaboration: Strengthened communication between the UK and German teams, bringing cross-border alignment to operational goals.
• Change Management Leadership: Supported the team through operational scaling, creating a more adaptable and motivated workforce.

These achievements reinforced the company’s strategic growth plans and improved both team and production efficiency.

💡 Key Lessons for Hiring Senior Manufacturing Leaders

This case study demonstrates the importance of:

• Targeted Recruitment: A structured search that identifies candidates combining technical ability, leadership, and cultural fit.
• Thorough Assessment: A recruitment process that evaluates not only professional experience but also adaptability to the organisation’s goals.
• Long-Term Focus: Prioritising leaders who can drive lasting improvements and lead transformative change.

📞 Need Support with Senior Recruitment?

If you’re looking to hire senior manufacturing leaders who can enhance operations, boost performance, and align with your organisation’s values, we can help.

• Call: 0207 160 6996

Email: info@executiveheadhunters.co.uk