Challenge

North Search was engaged by a global organisation with a strong presence in commercial and transaction services within transport infrastructure across Australia. This client’s Urban and Social Infrastructure practice was growing in its east coast location, but was yet to develop a presence in Sydney.

They required a senior-level partner to grow this key sector of the market in New South Wales. They also had very specific goals in relation to gender representation. It was key that this person was female and had prior Big-4 consulting experience.

Strategy

The strategy was clear, North Search first quantified the market and identified all potential candidates with, or without Big-4 consulting experience. The team then consulted closely with KPMG to identify a small number of core candidates to approach and engage for the role.

Information is key to helping clients understand the market and make informed decisions around their hiring strategy.

Result

By quantifying the market, North Search was able to zone in on a limited number of people who fitted the brief exactly - without diluting the significance of the role in the market. Each approach was personalised and targeted.

As a result, the client was able to see a true reflection of the talent available. North Search identified the tier one and two targets as well as those who were not suitable to contact. The team engaged the tier-one audience and progressed to a successful placement.

Senior appointments such as this take time.

Regular contact, attention to detail, and clear communication are key to facilitating a successful placement. People don’t join a Partnership for the short term, this is a significant commitment from both parties and warrants careful consultation in both directions.