Strategic Appointment to Drive Operational Excellence in the Middle East

The company had previously engaged other firms but struggled to identify candidates with the right mix of technical expertise and soft skills. They needed a professional who could not only bring deep Lean Six Sigma experience but also operate across multiple functions, from supply chain to commercial, while navigating cultural diversity among senior stakeholders. Based in Saudi Arabia or nearby, the successful candidate would have to influence senior leaders from varied cultural backgrounds, harmonise regional processes, and help deliver the targeted cost savings and efficiency gains tied to the global excellence programme. Compensation benchmarking and seniority alignment also posed challenges in a market where pay scales were inconsistent and top talent often commanded premium packages.

Pacific International Executive Search deployed a dual strategy: leveraging its international network and conducting targeted headhunting within relevant industries such as chemicals, packaging, and oil & gas. With limited fresh networks in the Middle East, the team built pipelines from scratch, identifying and approaching talent directly in hubs such as Dammam, a centre for technical manufacturing industries. Recognising that many suitable candidates were not actively seeking new roles, the firm engaged individuals through tailored outreach that positioned the role as a strategic opportunity rather than a lateral move. Throughout the process, the consultants guided the client on market compensation expectations, advised on interview structuring to improve candidate experience, and maintained alignment across busy stakeholders in multiple time zones.

Within weeks, the search produced a high-calibre candidate based in Bahrain with strong Lean Six Sigma credentials and cross-functional transformation experience. Although initially not seeking a new role, the scope and impact of the position enticed him to the role. The hiring manager and stakeholders were convinced from the first interview, accelerating the process to a successful close. The candidate quickly integrated into the organisation, taking ownership of regional transformation initiatives critical to the company’s Middle East strategy. The client was delighted with the outcome, noting that Pacific International not only met but exceeded expectations by securing the right individual in a competitive market. This successful placement reinforced Pacific’s ability to deliver in challenging, less-explored regions, blending global reach, rigorous sourcing, brand storytelling, and advisory support to achieve results.