Our client is a Spanish multinational holding company headquartered in Barcelona, rooted in the rich entrepreneurial tradition of a Catalonian family. Operating within the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector and with a solid presence across multiple markets, the group combines strategic governance with operational agility, maintaining a balance between heritage and innovation as it continues to evolve in a highly competitive and dynamic sector.
In line with its long-term strategic vision, the company launched a Venture Capital division to identify disruptive trends and invest in high-potential start-ups. To lead this bold initiative, the company sought a dynamic, strategically minded executive — someone who could operate autonomously, thrive in an agile environment, and drive innovation from day one.
But the brief extended far beyond technical capability. This leader needed to blend strategic acumen, operational agility, and a strong cultural fit to succeed in a lean structure and influence senior stakeholders across the group.
Having already delivered two successful executive placements for this client, our Partner Cecilia Okiñena was entrusted with this high-impact assignment. Her understanding of their leadership DNA, business trajectory, and company culture enabled an efficient search experience.
At Page Executive, we build relationships, not transactions — and Cecilia’s continued partnership with this client reflects the trust built through consistent, high-quality results.
We don’t just rely on databases — we connect people through purpose. This search tapped into Cecilia’s network across strategy consulting and private equity, augmented by the strength of Page Executive’s in-house research team and global reach.
The role’s specificity meant traditional advertising wouldn’t suffice. Instead, Cecilia resorted to direct headhunting and tailored outreach — leaving no stone unturned to access a curated, qualified pool of senior talent.
Candidate selection focused on both professional expertise and cultural fit. The process prioritised individuals with a strong strategy consulting background, particularly those from top-tier firms. Given the small size of the Venture Capital team, personality and adaptability were crucial criteria in assessing candidates.
Page Executive applies a human-led, insight-rich approach in all the mandates, and this assessment focused on strategic ability, adaptability, and leadership style — with particular interest in candidates from top-tier strategy consulting backgrounds.
Crucially, Cecilia analysed candidates’ personal motivations and long-term aspirations. This ensured the best fit, not just the best CV.
The client received a concise, high-quality shortlist supported by deep candidate reports, market insights, and reference checks. With our high-touch service, we ensured the entire process — from first conversation to signed contract — moved fast and efficiently without compromising quality.
Christopher, a German executive with an engineering background and 6 years of experience in one on the most prestigious strategy consultancy companies, emerged as the ideal candidate. Recently married to a Spanish national and considering a move to Barcelona, he was evaluating his next professional step when we approached him through our global network.
At Page Executive, we don’t just identify candidates — we understand what drives them. Through a series of advisory conversations and informal meetings, Cecilia explored Christopher’s motivations, values, and long-term aspirations. This human-led approach, rooted in emotional intelligence and industry insight, helped build trust and ensured a strong alignment between Christopher’s ambitions and the company’s strategic vision.
Though initially cautious about the speed of the process, Christopher felt reassured by our hands-on support and transparent communication throughout the process. Meanwhile, the organisation acted decisively, recognising the rare combination of strategic insight, entrepreneurial spirit, and personal adaptability he offered. They prioritised interviews and fast-tracked the offer process — securing their chosen candidate even as he returned from paternity leave.
This successful placement demonstrates the strength of Page Executive’s research-led, global search model. We go the extra mile to ensure the right fit candidates are identified, drawing on our reputation, in-house researcher team, and deep sector expertise. Our ability to access top talent — and have them take our calls — is a direct result of the trust we’ve built in the market.
Christopher’s appointment marks more than a successful hire — it’s a strategic investment in the organisation’s future. His integration into the leadership team positions the company to capitalise on disruptive innovation and expand its impact in the venture capital space.
For Page Executive, this case underscores our commitment to quality outcomes for both clients and candidates. By blending market intelligence with emotional acuity, and offering a flexible, tailored delivery model — whether remote, hybrid or in-person — we ensure an exceptional recruitment experience from start to finish.
When the business stakes are high, companies choose Page Executive for a reason: we don’t just fill roles — we build leadership foundations for long-term growth.
