Site Under Pressure Over Succession

One of Europe’s largest commodity chemicals manufacturers had recently acquired a site in Spain. Built in 2011, the site is one of the newest chemicals manufacturing sites in Europe. However, within 18 months of the acquisition, the company was presented with the current Site Manager’s impending retirement.

Having successfully completed two previous searches for the Spanish site, the Hybrid Search team were tasked with the vitally important search for the Site Manager’s successor. The Site Manager role required a chemical engineer with experience managing a SEVESO site. Fluency in Spanish and English was also a must, making the pool of available candidates a very bespoke search.

The Hybrid team cast the net by mapping out the SEVESO plants across Europe, utilising a multi-sector approach. A key focus was placed on candidates within Spain, however the search was broadened to include Spanish expats working abroad as well as potential candidates working in Spanish speaking countries.

Through the search, seven candidates were identified for a two stage assessment interview with Hybrid Search. The assessments focused on the technical skills and behaviours that were the key to success within the role.

From the seven candidates interviewed by Hybrid Search, four were presented to the client as a shortlist. All four shortlisted candidates were selected for first stage interviews with the client and two received the call back for a final stage. The result; an offer was extended to, and accepted by, the preferred candidate after negotiations managed by David.

Following the offer acceptance, the Hybrid Search Directors David and Daniel took the opportunity to visit Spain and tour the site. Although they received a warm reception from the successful candidate and a previous placement during the site tour, the Spanish weather wasn’t as welcoming, greeting them with a downpour that lasted the entirety of their business trip. Maybe next time we will get some sun?

To find out more about how David works as an intermediate between the client and candidate please send us a message. David does a fantastic job in freeing up Hiring Managers time, ensuring candidates are kept happy and up-to-date with information, which results in a smooth placement for both parties.