Case study

Head of Animal Nutrition. Corbion Algae Ingredients

Netherlands
Close-up of laboratory vials filled with vibrant green and yellow liquids containing plant materials and bubbles, reflecting on a glossy surface.

THE CHALLENGE

Our client acquired the San Francisco–based microalgae production platform and created a new business unit. The microalgae-based specialty ingredients were to be supplied into human and animal nutrition application markets. Miramar was retained to secure a Head of Animal Nutrition for this new business unit on a global scale.  

This was effectively a start-up venture requiring an executive with the right blend of technical, commercial, and operational expertise, and someone capable of scaling the business while remaining hands-on in its early stages.

THE SOLUTION

We developed a search strategy targeting specialty ingredient and additive manufacturers for the feed markets, as well as feed producers supplying into feed and aqua markets across EMEA.  

We identified candidates with the technical understanding of animal nutrition and functional ingredients markets, combined with a proven track record in designing and executing commercial strategy. 

A diverse slate of candidates was interviewed, ensuring the chosen leader not only had the   

right expertise but also aligned with our client’s culture and ambition.

THE RESULT

  • 84 candidates contacted and assessed across 30+ target organisations  
  • Shortlist of qualified candidates delivered within 5 weeks, with 6 entering the interview process to ensure a strong mix of skills and experiences  
  • Our client successfully hired a new Head of Animal Nutrition to lead the growth of this new business unit

The impact

The appointment provided our client with the leadership required to establish credibility in a competitive and emerging market. The new Head of Animal Nutrition has since driven the integration of microalgae-based solutions into key animal nutrition applications, laying the foundation for long-term commercial growth and market penetration.  

By securing an executive who could balance strategic vision with operational execution, our client positioned its new business unit to scale rapidly, strengthen its value proposition, and capture opportunities within both feed and aqua markets.