Executive Search: Head of Manufacturing for Regional High-Volume Operation
Client Overview A leading national kitchen manufacturer supplying major retail brands, this Central Coast–based organisation produces ~100 kitchens per week through a highly automated facility with a workforce of 65–70 employees. With growing demand and a complex production environment, they needed senior leadership who could navigate automation, people management and large-scale operational delivery - all within a regional location where talent is scarce.
The Challenge
Following a leadership departure, the business was faced with an urgent need to secure a senior leader capable of:
- Managing high-volume, automated manufacturing
- Leading large teams across technical and operational functions
- Maintaining output, safety and quality during a critical period
- Commuting or relocating to the Central Coast
The location alone significantly narrowed the talent pool. Add the need for deep manufacturing expertise — ideally kitchen, cabinetry or similar production — and the challenge intensified. If left unfilled, the role risked operational delays, reduced output, leadership gaps and increased pressure on the factory team.
Our Approach
We took a highly consultative and targeted approach from day one.
- We spent dedicated time onsite with the HR Manager, mapping: Organisational structure, leadership style, cultural expectations, requirements based on previous successful incumbents and transferable industries and target competitor lists.
- Dual Sourcing Strategy: to maximise reach, we executed two parallel campaigns including local and regional advertising for candidates already living near the Central Coast. The second campaign was a national search targeting relocation-ready leaders with high-volume manufacturing expertise
- Targeted Headhunting: using our network and LinkedIn Recruiter, we approached talent from specific organisations known for automated production, cabinet making/joinery manufacturing and high-throughput operational environments.
- Rigorous Shortlisting: every candidate underwent detailed screening for experience, leadership capability, cultural alignment and location viability.
The Impact
Our structured, two-track search produced fast and high-quality outcomes:
- 150+ applications reviewed
- 50+ candidates interviewed
- 8 candidates shortlisted in person
- Top 4 presented within two weeks
- 3 interviewed by the client
- 1 exceptional hire secured and appointed within days
The successful candidate is thriving and has already made a positive impact on production leadership.
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