Executive Search for a Managing Director in the Industrial Automation sector

Understanding the Sector

Our client operates in the industrial automation sector, providing control systems and engineering solutions to manufacturing and industrial clients. This industry is highly competitive and technical, requiring companies to balance innovation, operational efficiency, and customisation for diverse client needs. Leaders in this field must address challenges such as rapid technological advancements, global supply chain complexity, and the demand for cost-effective yet high-quality solutions.

Understanding the Role

The Managing Director role focused on driving business strategy, operational excellence, and long-term growth. Key priorities included:

• Accelerating revenue growth through client acquisition and market expansion.
• Overseeing R&D to ensure product offerings remained competitive and innovative.
• Managing operations to enhance efficiency and optimise costs.
• Leading and motivating a multidisciplinary team of engineers, commercial staff, and support teams.
• Establishing scalable systems and processes to support sustainable growth.

The ideal candidate required experience in a technical industry, a strong commercial mindset, and a proven ability to lead in fast-paced, innovation-driven environments.

Starting Our Search

The search concentrated on candidates with leadership experience within industrial automation, manufacturing, or control systems. Target profiles included:

• Managing Directors or senior executives with P&L accountability in engineering or automation industries.
• Professionals with a track record of scaling operations and delivering revenue growth.
• Candidates with both technical expertise and strategic leadership capabilities.
  We also explored high-potential leaders from adjacent fields who demonstrated adaptability to the unique challenges of industrial automation.

Finalising Our Shortlist

Candidates were shortlisted based on:

1. Sector Knowledge: Expertise in automation, control systems, or industrial engineering.
2. Strategic Acumen: Evidence of shaping and executing business strategies to drive growth.
3. Operational Efficiency: Proven ability to implement cost controls and optimise processes.
4. Leadership Excellence: Strong communication, team-building, and people management skills.

Our thorough evaluation ensured we identified candidates with the blend of technical knowledge and business leadership required to guide the company.

How We Found the Perfect Candidate

The successful candidate had substantial leadership experience in industrial automation and control systems. Their standout qualities included:

• Sector Expertise: Strong technical background and understanding of the automation industry’s dynamics.
• Growth Leadership: History of market expansion and driving significant revenue growth.
• Operational Excellence: Expertise in streamlining operations and developing scalable systems.
• Cultural Fit: Their team-oriented, hands-on leadership style aligned with the client’s values.

Upon appointment, the candidate made a swift impact, implementing strategies to improve operational efficiency and positioning the business for continued growth in a competitive market.

Conclusion

Our tailored executive search enabled us to deliver a Managing Director with the vision and expertise to drive success in the industrial automation sector. Let us help you find leadership that transforms your business.

📞 Call us: 0207 160 6996
📧 Email us: info@executiveheadhunters.co.uk