Challenge

Since its inception in 1998, Engineering Aid Australia (EAA) has supported indigenous High School students with an aptitude for maths and science – inspiring them to continue engineering studies at university and become professional engineers. As an engineering charity looking to modernise and elevate its organisation, EAA presented North Search with a totally unique mandate.

The client wanted to source a Chief Executive Officer, the first role of its kind within the organisation and the first permanent staff member at EAA. The ideal candidate needed experience securing government funding and general fundraising knowledge. Senior-level management experience and connections within Engineering and Technology markets were also key requirements of the position.

In representation of the beneficiaries of the programme, the client also hoped for the candidate to be of Aboriginal or Torres Strait descent, with a strong connection to country. To diversify the gender balance within the organisation, the preference for the role was female.

Strategy

As a new client, becoming familiar with EAA was essential. We hosted a series of briefing meetings with the organisation to further understand and develop their EVP, while simultaneously conducting market research in relation to the position.

Utilising our proven executive search process, which you can find here, we specifically targeted candidates of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent. We sourced individuals who specialised within the Engineering and Technology space and further filtered through management and senior-level experience. Community engagement, education, and fundraising activity were also key identifiers of the search.

Assessing the suitability across a volume of potential candidates made this process extremely detailed.

Result

Having identified 8 potential candidates for the role, all 8 progressed through to formal interviews. Every candidate was unique in their career development, but fit the high-level criteria set out by EAA. Our methodical and systematic approach gave our client confidence that the final candidate pool was a true reflection of their talent.

We presented a shortlist of 3 people and delivered a full executive search process despite the perceived difficulty of the task.

Tracey Dennis fulfilled the position.