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Chief Commercial Officer
THE CHALLENGE
A high-growth biotechnology business developed a new portfolio of highly innovative microalgae ingredients for the food & beverage markets. The Chlorella portfolio provides neutral flavours, colour and freshness demanded by formulators but also retains the functionality demanded when replacing dairy and animal proteins. This is also a highly sustainable solution which can be developed into multiple applications in the future.
Our client needed a commercial leader with technical capabilities and experience scaling a business to design and execute their go-to-market strategy and play a key leadership role in the business.
THE SOLUTION
Due to the combination of commercial, technical, growth and leadership skills alongside an active network in the food & beverage market, we utilised our network in both the bio-tech space and food ingredient manufacturers to ensure sufficient breadth of candidates. We also ensured we were interviewing candidates from the major, global ingredient producers as well as start-ups and mid-caps across Europe. We assessed candidate’s ability to operate in both a structured, corporate environments as well as in a high-growth, agile business. Candidates completed a combination of structured and informal interviews, psychometric testing and were cross-referenced to ensure a strong and comprehensive shortlist.
THE RESULT
Through our live project platform and regular update meetings, we ensured alignment throughout the process which resulted a shortlist that had candidates from varied backgrounds but that all met the key criteria.
- 74 candidates assessed; 12 candidates completed formal interview process
- A diverse shortlist of 6 candidates presented after 27 days
- Offer, acceptance and onboarding all successfully managed with agreed time frame
Whilst speed was an important factor, the blend of commercial and technical skills alongside the ability to operate in a high-growth dynamic business was vital. Our client appreciated the emphasis that was placed on this and cultural fit to the team.
The impact
The appointment of a commercial leader with both technical depth and market expertise enabled our client to accelerate the successful launch and scale-up of their innovative Chlorella portfolio. With the ability to bridge science, strategy, and commercial execution, the new leader has been instrumental in shaping and executing a go-to-market strategy that positions the business for rapid growth in the food & beverage sector.
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