Focus on Flexibility

Selbstbewusster chinesischer Geschäftsmann mit Auto im Hintergrund

Successful placement of a plant manager for an automotive supplier despite multiple changes in requirements

In dynamic markets like China, adaptability and precision in executive search are crucial. For us at Steinkellner China Search, the task of finding a new plant management for one of the Chinese factories of a globally operating automotive supplier was a prime example of our ability to deliver an optimal solution even with repeatedly changing conditions. This success story demonstrates how we identified the ideal talent and ensured continuity in an important production facility despite significant shifts in the requirement profile – from the nationality of the sought-after executive to the potential work location.

A leading, globally operating automotive supplier maintains six factories in China. For one of these production sites, located in a rather remote region in Jiangyin, our client faced the challenge of having to find a new plant management due to the retirement of the long-standing incumbent. The task was clearly defined: to identify an experienced leadership personality with in-depth knowledge in the production of commercial vehicle seats and all related specific production processes. In addition to professional excellence and management experience, a suitable salary structure was also an important aspect for our client.

The filling of this plant manager position was characterized from the beginning by high dynamics and changing requirements. Initially, the search was focused on a European plant management. However, during the course of the project, the focus shifted to identifying Chinese talent. Additionally, a possible relocation of the entire factory, and thus a change of work location, was repeatedly considered during the search process. For us at Steinkellner China Search, this meant proving the highest flexibility and agility in our approach.

We repeatedly adapted our search strategy to the new circumstances and were able to evaluate and present qualified leadership personalities for all corresponding variants and scenarios. Another important aspect of our work was the successful management of the various internal decision-makers and stakeholders at our client. Through clear communication and coordination, we managed to develop a viable solution for our client’s entire organization in China, despite the complex coordination processes.

Despite the multiple significant changes in the requirement profile, we were able to successfully complete the project and realize the ideal placement for the plant management position. The new Chinese plant manager we identified and placed proved to be a “Perfect Match” for the demanding task. He has more than two decades of experience in manufacturing exactly the product that our client produces: seats for the commercial vehicle industry. This profound product and process knowledge enabled a seamless takeover of responsibilities and quick familiarization. The ability of our team to flexibly adapt to the changing needs of our client and find suitable talents for each variant was a decisive factor for the success of this challenging mandate.

Steinkellner China Search helped us find a plant manager for our factory near Wuxi under difficult conditions. Although the requirement profile changed several times, Manfred Steinkellner and his team reacted quickly and presented us with very good candidates corresponding to the requirement profile. 9 months after recruitment, I can say that I am very satisfied with the choice and performance of the candidate.

Ulrich S., Vice President BU

  • Agile and flexible project management: Our competence to maintain focus and successfully realign the process even with multiple and significant changes in search criteria.
  • In-depth industry know-how: Our specialized knowledge in the automotive supplier industry and the production of commercial vehicle components, which enabled the identification of a talent with exactly matching product experience.
  • Effective stakeholder management: Our ability to successfully coordinate the various decision-makers within a complex corporate organization and bring about a consensus for the best solution.
  • Comprehensive candidate access: Our network and search methodology that allow us to identify excellent personalities for both European and Chinese executive searches.

Your success story could be the next

Is your company in China facing the challenge of filling a key position and confronted with changing conditions or complex internal coordination processes? Do you need a partner who not only finds talent but also manages the entire process flexibly and purposefully? Let’s talk about how we can use our expertise and agile approach to find the perfect executive for your success in China.