Managed by:José PeixotoAssociate Partner, PortugalThe ClientA family-owned company in the industrial and manufacturing sector, specialising in energy distribution, sought a senior executive to lead transformation and implement international reporting structures. Due to the location, securing a high-calibre leader required an innovative approach to executive search.The BriefThe client sought an experienced executive with strong leadership and people management skills to drive transformation in human resources and implement international reporting structures. The role required fluency in French and a background in global operations. Finding a qualified candidate willing to relocate to Leiria—where the senior talent pool is more limited than in Lisbon or Porto—was a key challenge.Search MethodologyEngagementThe client engaged Page Executive through an internal referral, recognising our expertise in executive search for industrial and manufacturing companies. Given the urgency of the placement, we maintained regular follow-ups throughout the process. A strategic approach was needed to expand the potential talent pool beyond traditional hiring criteria.SourcingTo address the talent scarcity in Leiria, we identified candidates with ties to the area who might be open to returning. To identify the right candidate, we leveraged our global researcher model and exclusive data-driven insights, considering: senior professionals with international expertise open to relocating or returning to Leiria; executives with connections to Leiria to ensure long-term commitment, industry leaders seeking their next strategic challenge.AssessmentWe employed competency-based interviews and structured assessments to ensure alignment with client expectations. The shortlisted candidates reflected a 50/50 gender balance, reinforcing our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We presented a targeted shortlist featuring executives with proven leadership in industrial transformation; candidates with strong cultural and professional alignment; and a diverse mix of backgrounds to bring fresh perspectives to the business.DeliveryThe client received a detailed progress report, a refined shortlist, and in-depth candidate assessments. Our process ensured transparency and helped guide the client towards selecting the most suitable candidate.Page Executive's SolutionDespite location-based challenges, Page Executive successfully placed a highly qualified candidate, with a 30+ year career in the industrial sector, in the mandate. The candidate’s fluency in French, multinational experience, and expertise across operations, finance, and commercial functions made him a perfect fit. The selected executive quickly demonstrated value by successfully implementing international reporting structures and strengthening HR leadership across multiple locations.The candidate’s success in the role led to a career progression into a permanent leadership position within another multinational organisation, demonstrating how strategic executive search can unlock hidden talent and drive lasting business success.Our placed candidate and currently Chariman at Cinca in Portugal, shares his experience:I first connected with Page Executive in 2023 and had the privilege of working with José Peixoto, who brought me into a highly engaging and challenging project. Now, in 2024, Carlos Andrade has played a pivotal role in helping me secure the ideal opportunity to conclude my career on a high note—an exciting challenge perfectly aligned with my experience and aspirations.What truly sets PageGroup apart is their exceptional dedication to candidates, their ability to understand both professional and personal ambitions, and their diligent follow-up throughout the recruitment process. Their professionalism, insight, and commitment make a meaningful difference in shaping successful career transitions.Miguel BalboaChairman at Cinca in PortugalClosing CommentsThis case study highlights Page Executive’s ability to navigate location-based hiring obstacles, maintain a commitment to diversity, and deliver strategic executive placements that drive long-term business success. A strategic talent search can overcome location-based hiring challenges and expanding the candidate profiles in the search leads to better leadership matches. By combining cutting-edge search technology with a personal, human approach, Page Executive delivers leadership solutions that transform organisations—wherever they are.CONTACT JOSÉ PEIXOTODid you find this case study useful? If you'd like to know more about this project, or wish to discuss your executive recruitment needs with one of our Principals and Partners, please click below and a member of our team will call you back. Request a meeting
