Strategic Executive Search: Successfully Placing a Director of Finance for a Global Automotive Leader

Client Overview

The client is a global Automotive Tier 1 supplier and recognised leader in advanced electronics systems for the automotive industry. With multi-billion-dollar revenue and a workforce of over 150,000 employees worldwide, the organisation operates at significant scale, delivering complex, safety-critical technologies to leading OEMs across international markets.

Client Context

The client required a Director of Finance to join one of its key business units within a highly competitive and performance-driven environment. The role demanded a senior finance leader with strong strategic capability, deep understanding of automotive manufacturing economics, and the ability to operate effectively within a large, global, matrixed structure.

Engagement Scope

We were engaged to deliver a targeted search across the automotive supplier landscape, including comprehensive market mapping and proactive headhunting into competitor organisations. The search focused on:

· Senior finance leadership experience within complex automotive environments

· Proven track record in complex electronics or advanced manufacturing settings

· Strong commercial acumen and P&L partnership capability

· Experience operating within large-scale, global matrix operations

· Executive-level stakeholder management and influencing skills

· Cultural alignment and long-term leadership potential

A detailed market map of the relevant sector was developed, enabling direct access to high-performing, passive candidates. The approach combined rigorous assessment with strategic positioning of the opportunity to secure engagement from top-tier talent.

Outcome

The engagement resulted in the successful placement of a high-calibre Director of Finance. The appointed leader brought deep sector expertise, strong commercial insight and immediate credibility within the organisation. The placement strengthened the finance leadership capability within the business unit and positioned the function for continued strategic impact.

Candidate Testimonial

"I had the pleasure of working with Adam during my recruitment process for a Director Finance position at one of the leading automotive suppliers - and I can confidently say he is the best headhunter I’ve ever worked with.

From our first contact through to months after I started the role, Adam was incredibly supportive, proactive, and insightful. He consistently went above and beyond - whether that meant providing deep insights into the company and role, preparing me thoroughly for interviews, or even taking late evening calls to debrief and advise. His dedication, professionalism, and personal commitment made a real difference throughout the process.

Adam sets the benchmark for excellence in executive recruitment, and I sincerely appreciate the role he played in this important step in my career.”