Redefining continuity in success

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Revitalizing China Operations for an Austrian Measurement Technology Specialist

When long-serving executives lose momentum and and strategically important markets stagnate, decisive action with care is required. At Steinkellner China Search, revitalizing the China business of a leading Austrian precision measurement specialist proved to be a particularly rewarding challenge. This success story shows how we helped reclaim lost market share and initiated a path toward renewed, sustainable growth in China by identifying and placing a carefully selected General Manager with a proven sales track record.

A leading Austrian specialist in precision measurement technology was facing a critical turning point in its Chinese operations. The incumbent Chinese Managing Director who had played a key role in building the local business and also was a shareholder had shown signs of declining engagement after many successful years. This loss of momentum had already begun to impact performance, with sales declining over consecutive periods.
In addition to operational stagnation, the strategic direction of the business had become misaligned. Due to the Managing Director’s strong ties to the aviation industry, other crucial sectors such as automotive had been significantly neglected.

Recognizing the strategic importance of the Chinese market, the company’s COO and market representative for China identified the urgent need to reengage key sectors, regain lost market share, and revitalize the China business.

Our assignment at Steinkellner China Search was clearly defined: to identify a seasoned industry professional with strong background in the precision measurement sector for the position of Managing Director in China. The ideal candidate would combine extensive sales leadership experience with a proven track record of building and managing high-performing sales teams. The central objective was to regain lost market share in China and strategically expand into new growth areas.

Our search focused on individuals not only meeting the professional requirements but also demonstrating energy and strategic foresight to revitalize an established market and lead an existing team to new peak performance. Given the sensitive nature of the situation – replacing a long-serving managing director and shareholder – we approached the assignment with exceptional care and discretion.

Our focused search and precise selection process ensured rapid recruitment of a General Manager who was not only carefully selected but also an exceptional strategic and cultural fit. The impact of this decision was both immediate and sustainable: Since the placement in November 2017, our client has been recording a continuous increase in sales figures in China – strong evidence of the right choice and successful change management initiated by the new executive.

The newly appointed Chinese General Manager proved strong professional and strategic performance while representing a high-impact, cost-effective solution. His salary was approximately 20% below the market benchmark for similar roles highlighting the strategic value of this key appointment at an efficient cost level.
This strategic hire significantly supported the client’s return to growth and reinforced their competitiveness in this strategically important market.

  • Precise identification of the “Perfect Match”: Our ability to identify not only professionally qualified but also culturally and motivationally ideally suited executives who drive meaningful transformation.
  • Focus on proven successes (Track Record): Focus on candidates with a proven experience in leading sales teams and reclaim market share
  • Efficient and discreet change management recruiting: In sensitive leadership transitions, we navigate the process with discretion and structure—preserving stability while accelerating progress.
  • High Impact, Smart Investment: Our commitment to delivering not just top-tier candidates, but also cost-effective solutions that provide long-term value.

Your Success Story Could Be Next

These success stories confirm: With the right partner at your side and a proven method in place, even the most complex challenges in China can be managed successfully.
If you are ready to set the course for sustainable success, let’s connect.