menu

Brief for International Managing Directors

A UK-based strategic consultancy sought help with expansion and growing their international presence in Brussels, followed by the UAE and Dublin. They required International Managing Directors with an extensive local network, expertise in new business development, deal origination and the knowledge, along with leadership skills, to attract, grow and develop talent. Additionally, cultural fit for the market and collaborative alignment with the HQ in London were essential.

  • In all instances, the business was not well-known in the local markets.
  • The talent pool was limited in the sought-after candidate market for International Managing Directors, with few individuals working in those regions.
  • The client had multiple stakeholders, particularly as they expanded.

Our Approach

  • We delved deeply into understanding the business objectives, the opportunity, and the people within the business, ensuring the creation of a compelling story for the market.
  • Given the limited pool of candidates for an International Executive, each approach had to be tailored, maintaining excellent candidate service, and acting as ambassadors to the market.
  • Rigorous screening and stress testing of candidates were conducted using competency-based questions to ensure they possessed the right personality for a leadership and growth role.
  • If a candidate deemed perfect for the role was not actively looking, we collaborated with the client to develop a strategy to secure the candidate – we couldn’t take a no for an answer!
  • Excellent communications, with regular updates to keep all stakeholders informed.

The Outcome

We supported the client in crafting compelling offers, suitable for the local markets without overpaying.

Conclusion

We supported the client in crafting compelling offers, suitable for each local market and successfully recruited three International Managing Directors to their Brussels, Dubai and Dublin offices.

Today, the UAE office stands as their most profitable business offering.

Hanson Search is a leading talent advisory and executive search consultancy with consultants based across the UAE, UK, USA, and Europe. We specialise in business-critical roles that drive revenue, reputation, and risk, with dedicated teams in Communications, Government Relations, Financial Communications, Public Affairs, Marketing, Digital Marketing, Sustainability, Investor Relations and C-Suite recruitment. 

Looking to hire exceptional talent or explore your next career move? Get in touch with our team.

Get in touch