Project overview

The project required mapping the European industrial market to find an EMEA Product Line Manager with experience and expertise in hydraulic hoses.
IndustryEngineering
Duration12 weeks
Client An American leader in the automotive and industrial sectors, developing products such as transmission belts and hydraulic hoses.

Client profile: A global company with a long-standing tradition, employing over 15,000 people worldwide and specializing in power transmission and hydraulic solutions.

Challenge

The role was based in Luxembourg, the company’s main European headquarters. While the position required extensive experience in the industry, Luxembourg is not known for companies in this field, necessitating a search across Europe and potentially relocating the right candidate. The recruitment process was overseen by the Global Product Line Manager, based in the U.S., whose knowledge of the European market was limited.

  • A narrow specialization required of candidates
  • A broad geographical search area
  • A gentleman's agreement with several companies housing candidates of the required profile, prohibiting direct contact
  • The seniority of the position, limiting the candidate pool and decreasing interest from those already established in stable roles

Process

1. Preparation:

An online meeting with the client was held to analyze the job description and highlight the key aspects to consider. We gained an understanding of the current team situation and clarified the real needs for the role. Communication timelines, weekly progress updates, and mutual commitments were agreed upon.
In this case – weekly updates with the client.
Early in the search, we delivered initial candidate profiles as “litmus tests” to ensure we shared the same understanding of the role. This detailed planning helped save time in later stages and ensured we stayed on the right track.

2. Search:

A broad search on social media platforms using targeted keywords, job titles, and companies with similar profiles. We reviewed industry news and familiarized ourselves with the product to ensure high-quality conversations with potential candidates.

3. Search results:

After one week of searching, we presented initial profiles. With further refinement, we delivered two highly experienced candidates after another two weeks of search efforts, and two more the following week.

4. Interview Finalization:

The client was impressed with the experience and profile of three out of the four candidates. These three were selected for interviews, first remotely, then in person.

5. Alternative Solutions:

Consideration was given to candidates with experience in a broader range of products, reducing the required years of experience, or the option to hire in a different European location of the company.

6. Outcome:

The client received recommendations for four candidates over a period of five weeks from different locations.

Ultimately, an offer was made to a candidate from Belgium, who opted for a commuting arrangement.

Results

Thanks to a thorough understanding of the profile and open communication with the client, we presented candidates that met the requirements despite the narrow specialization. Our years of recruitment experience in agencies, as well as in the automotive and manufacturing sectors, provided valuable insight into the processes and demands necessary to deliver the best results.