Leading UK retailer builds brand new consulting arm
A leading UK retailer got in touch with Freshminds to help them build the strategy function of the business. As the role was based in Manchester we launched an extensive head-hunting campaign to find a candidate with the commerical skill set and with enough experience to to on this challenge and grow the new arm of the business.
Our client, a leading UK retailer, came to Freshminds as they were looking to build a brand new consulting arm of the business to sit underneath the existing Director of Strategy. The aim was to drive change and move towards a more customer-centric strategy across the business.
They were looking for a candidate to drive a uniform strategy across all business units in the Group portfolio, including customer strategy and propositions. The person they took on would need to spot opportunities to improve inefficiencies and drive change with the transformation team. To do this they would need strong stakeholder management, strategic delivery and project management skills.
Who they needed:
A candidate with a strong strategy consulting background coupled with industry experience within a consumer facing organisation.
Someone highly analytical, with the commercial acumen and communication skills to get things done in an adaptable manner.
Stakeholder management and influencing skills were key to this role given the number of business units and stakeholders they would need to get on board during the next phase of growth.
Someone with the ability to influence and get people on board at C-Suite level as well as cross-functionally within business units.
A passion for the brand and vision of the new team.
Key Challenges:
The role would be based in Manchester, but offered a strong base salary and wider package, so location was less of an issue.
Given it is a newly created team; the current Director was overstretched so scheduling issues slowed down the process.
The candidate who was offered the role would have to adjust to moving back into a permanent role and relocating to Manchester.
What Freshminds did
Extensive marketing, networking and head-hunting campaign, including a large push on our referral network.
Provided a market map and executive search process for the client, with weekly reporting calls
Provided a full shortlist presentation to help the client make their decision as to who to offer the role to.
Results
8 candidates shortlisted, all 8 interviewed
Exceptional candidate placed in the position
Freshminds has a pipeline of other candidates to help grow the team
Freshminds provided market insight and feedback throughout the process in terms of role attractiveness and market response.
We have continued working with the client to help them grow their Strategy Team.