Accelerating Connected Mobility: How we secured a head of sales to drive an automotive app-tech pioneer’s growth in China

Client overview

We partnered with a fast-scaling automotive application technology company operating at the intersection of in-vehicle apps, connectivity, integration platforms and new digital revenue models. Their solutions sit deep within the automotive software ecosystem, enabling OEMs to monetise connected services and deliver seamless digital experiences to drive and passengers.

With China representing the world’s most competitive and innovation-driven automotive market, the organisation needed a senior commercial leader capable of navigating complex technical landscapes wile unlocking new revenued streams across the region.

Client Context

The madidate was for a Head of Sales, China – a role requiring far more than traditional commercial capability. The ideal leader needed:

Deep understanding of automotive app development, connectivity architectures and integration frameworks

The ability to translate advanced digital technology into compelling commercial value for OEMs

Experience operating where telecoms, IT, and automotive ecosystems converge

A track record of building revenue engines in highly technical rapidly evolving

This was a niche talent pool, sitting at the crossroads of software, mobility and digital services.

Engagement Scope

We were retained to deliver a comprehensive market intelligence and executive search programme, including:

Mapping the telecoms, IT, and advanced technology markets serving automotive customers across China

Identifying and evaluating leaders with both technical fluency and commercial depth

Building a diverse shortlist representing multiple industry entry points

Delivering a full market map to guide long-term talent strategy

Conducting a compensating survey to benchmark expectations and support offer alignment

The search required deep technical qualification, cross-sector analysis, and careful stakeholder management to ensure alignment at every stage.

Outcome

We successfully placed a truly exceptional female executive with a rare blend of technical expertise, commercial acumen and regional market insight. She is already positioned to expand the company’s market share in this strategically critical region and to strengthen their commercial presence across Asia.

This placement not only filled a key leadership gap but also advanced the client’s commitment to building a diverse, high-performance leadership team.