Executive Search Case Study: Head of Engineering at a Leading UK Port

🚢 Overview

This case study details how a successful recruitment campaign identified and placed a Head of Engineering for a leading UK port, the largest container port in the country. The role demanded a high-calibre leader to manage engineering operations in a fast-paced, 24/7 environment.

Quick Snapshot

🎯 The Challenge

The client sought an exceptional Head of Engineering to oversee operations at one of the busiest ports in the UK. This key leadership role required technical expertise, operational agility, and the ability to manage a large, diverse team while driving innovation and delivering efficient workflows.

Role Requirements

The successful candidate needed:

• Strong engineering expertise in maritime and industrial systems,
• Experience managing large technical teams and contracted workforces,
• Proficiency in CMMS and EMIS systems,
• Knowledge of high-voltage equipment operations (11,000 volts) and heavy-duty industrial processes,
• A proven ability to lead change in complex commercial environments,
• Chartered Engineer status, ideally with Fellow-level accreditation,
• A strong alignment with the client’s values of excellence, sustainability, and innovation.

🧠 Our Strategy: Finding the Right Leader

Phase 1: Understanding Client Needs

We engaged closely with the leadership team to understand their unique operational and cultural requirements. The insights gathered helped build a clear candidate profile aligned with the port’s strategic growth objectives.

Phase 2: Tailored Talent Search

An extensive search was conducted to identify top talent within the UK’s maritime and heavy engineering sectors. Using a combination of referrals, networks, and discreet headhunting, we sourced 48 qualified individuals.

Phase 3: Rigorous Assessment

Candidates underwent a robust selection process, focused on:

• Proficiency in systems like CMMS, EMIS, and high-voltage operations,
• Change management expertise in delivering technically and commercially significant projects,
• Vital leadership qualities such as adaptability, team collaboration, and resilience under pressure.
  Scenario-based interviews assessed their ability to make effective decisions in high-stakes situations.

Phase 4: Shortlisting and Final Selection

Four highly qualified candidates were shortlisted, each bringing:

• Chartered Engineer credentials,
• Proven success managing large-scale technical operations,
• Values aligned with the client’s focus on innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence.

👤 The Appointed Candidate

The chosen candidate stood out for their:

• Experience: Over 10 years leading engineering teams in large-scale industrial and maritime settings,
• Technical Expertise: Deep knowledge of CMMS, EMIS, and high-voltage systems, coupled with process optimisation skills,
• Leadership Skills: Strong ability to lead, motivate, and manage teams under demanding conditions,
• Cultural Alignment: Excellent fit with the client’s focus on sustainability and innovative practices.

✅ Results and Outcomes

Operational Enhancements

The new Head of Engineering delivered:

• Streamlining of maintenance schedules, improving equipment uptime and reliability,
• Improved team collaboration across engineering and commercial divisions,
• Robust implementation of data-driven processes to enhance decision-making.

Sustainable Growth

Innovative engineering frameworks, closely aligned with the client’s sustainability strategies, were successfully introduced to support environmental goals.

Early Wins

Within the first few months, the successful candidate:

• Implemented global standards across engineering operations,
• Developed workflows enhancing productivity,
• Strengthened communication and alignment between technical and commercial teams during high-demand operations.

💡 Key Takeaway

This case study demonstrates the importance of a precise, tailored executive search process. By appointing an outstanding Head of Engineering who aligned with both technical and cultural objectives, the client secured sustainable improvements in operations to meet industry demands.

📞 Contact Us:

If you need leaders to drive innovation and efficiency in your organisation, we’re here to help.

• Call: 0207 160 6996
• Email: info@executiveheadhunters.co.uk