Executive Search Case Study | Driving Operational Leadership for a $3 Billion US Biotech Greenfield Expansion
Role: Senior Operations Director
Industry: Biopharmaceuticals
Location: US
Discovery
Our client, a global biopharmaceutical leader, was investing $3B in a state-of-the-art monoclonal antibody (mAb) manufacturing facility. They required a Senior Operations Director to lead start-up, commissioning, and full-scale manufacturing phases. The role demanded extensive biologics and aseptic manufacturing expertise, strong leadership and the ability to thrive in a complex, greenfield environment — building teams, systems and operational excellence from the ground up. This resulted in a limited but highly targeted talent pool.
Reach
Our Talent Intelligence team conducted in-depth market mapping of comparable greenfield and scale-up manufacturing operations, identifying leaders across the US and US expats with proven experience leading large-molecule manufacturing facilities. Throughout the executive search process, candidate engagement prioritised technical capability, operational scale experience and alignment to the organisation’s collaborative and high-performance culture.
Assessment
We worked closely with US and global HR leadership teams to align expectations and ensure cultural and strategic fit, assessing candidates against expertise in biologics and aseptic operations, proven scale-up and site-build leadership, strong people and culture leadership, and the ability to deliver operational excellence in a complex, regulated environment.
Impact
A Senior Operations Director with 20+ years’ biologics leadership experience was appointed. The individual brought technical depth, strategic capability and greenfield leadership experience required to ensure the success and long-term performance of this flagship manufacturing investment.
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Get In Touch
To discuss how we can support your Executive Search and Contract & Interim requirements contact:
Ciarán McCaughey – Managing Director – Executive Search | ciaran.mccaughey@hrmrecruit.com | +35383 1420673
Shane Browne – Managing Director – International Operations | shane.browne@hrmrecruit.com | +353 1 6321865
Arlene Moran – Managing Director – Contract & Interim | arlene.moran@hrmrecruit.com | +353 86 3656648
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Executive Search Case Study | Driving Global Quality Transformation in a Leading Pharma Organisation
Role: Global VP of Quality
Industry: Life Sciences
Location: Europe
Discovery
Our client, a leading global pharmaceutical company with approximately 20,000 employees and annual revenues of $20 billion, required a Global Vice President of Quality to lead a team of 2,000 professionals worldwide. The client was undergoing significant organisational transformation and required an experienced leader with extensive technical expertise in quality systems and regulatory compliance as well as the ability to drive change and transformation at a global scale.
The complexity of the role demanded a uniquely skilled leader possessing both deep global QA expertise and a track record of leading large-scale transformation in complex pharmaceutical environments. This resulted in an extremely limited talent pool.
Reach
We conducted an extensive global executive search, mapping senior quality leaders within leading multinational pharmaceutical organisations. Our targeted outreach focused on individuals with a proven record of driving quality excellence across global operations, leading and scaling large teams and delivering change in highly regulated environments.
Assessment
Shortlisted candidates were evaluated not only for their technical and regulatory expertise but also for their leadership style, change management capability, and cultural alignment—including their ability to embed a culture of quality excellence across global operations. Close collaboration with the client’s executive team ensured clarity on strategic priorities and leadership expectations throughout the assessment process.
Impact
A highly qualified Global VP of Quality was appointed, bringing significant experience in leading complex, multinational quality functions and transformation initiatives. Since joining, the new leader has enhanced global quality leadership, strengthened the organisation’s readiness for change, and driven improvements across quality operations worldwide.
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Get In Touch
To discuss how we can support your Executive Search and Contract & Interim requirements contact:
Ciarán McCaughey – Managing Director – Executive Search | ciaran.mccaughey@hrmrecruit.com | +35383 1420673
Shane Browne – Managing Director – International Operations | shane.browne@hrmrecruit.com | +353 1 6321865
Arlene Moran – Managing Director – Contract & Interim | arlene.moran@hrmrecruit.com | +353 86 3656648
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Executive Search Case Study | Appointing a Head of Cyber Security (CISO) for a Global Professional Services Firm
Role: Head of Cyber Security (CISO)
Industry: Professional Services
Location: Ireland
Discovery
Our client is a top tier professional services firm requiring a senior cyber security leader to head its Cyber Security practice group. The individual would partner with global clients across multiple sectors, which required CISO level experience, enterprise scale exposure and the capability to operate across large geographical remits. This was a critical appointment requiring technical expertise, strong stakeholder influence and proven advisory capability within complex, high trust environments.
Reach
Our team conducted a global executive search for senior cyber security leaders with experience in large scale cyber governance, enterprise risk, incident response and advisory work. Our Talent Intelligence team mapped CISO talent, focusing on individuals who had operated in multi jurisdiction environments. We leveraged our international network and sector intelligence to identify leaders who could bring both strategic security insight and commercial understanding.
Assessment
The approach was a highly targeted headhunt supported by our four dimensional assessment process. This included competency based interviews, leadership profiling and evaluation of technical cyber security capability. We assessed candidates for strategic security leadership, ability to advise executive level clients and cultural alignment within a global professional services organisation.
Impact
HRM identified a high calibre CISO based in Singapore with extensive enterprise security leadership experience and strong global exposure. Following a 90 day search and engagement process, the candidate was successfully secured and has now relocated to Ireland to lead the Cyber Security practice from the client’s Dublin headquarters. The appointment introduced significant global expertise and strengthened the firm’s advisory capability for its international customer base.
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Get In Touch
To discuss how we can support your Executive Search and Contract & Interim requirements contact:
Ciarán McCaughey – Managing Director – Executive Search | ciaran.mccaughey@hrmrecruit.com | +35383 1420673
Shane Browne – Managing Director – International Operations | shane.browne@hrmrecruit.com | +353 1 6321865
Arlene Moran – Managing Director – Contract & Interim | arlene.moran@hrmrecruit.com | +353 86 3656648
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Executive Search Case Study | Strengthening Global Quality Leadership in Medical Devices
Role: Divisional VP of Global Quality
Industry: Medical Devices
Location: Europe
Discovery
Our client, a global medical devices leader with an extensive international manufacturing footprint, needed a Divisional VP of Global Quality to oversee operations across more than 15 sites worldwide. The role required proven experience leading global quality functions, significant expertise in regulatory environments including FDA, ISO13485 and MDR, and the ability to drive continuous improvement and cultural transformation across a highly matrixed organisation.
The global talent pool for executives with this combination of scale, operational leadership, regulatory knowledge and change management experience in medical devices or adjacent regulated sectors is extremely limited. Candidates also needed the gravitas to influence across multiple business divisions and regions.
Reach
HRM conducted a global executive search, mapping senior quality leaders across North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific. The search included leaders from top-tier medical device and life sciences organisations as well as adjacent sectors such as pharmaceuticals and diagnostics to identify transferable profiles. Our extensive networks allowed us to engage both active and highly passive candidates who were not visible through traditional recruitment channels. Throughout the search we worked closely with the client’s executive team and HR to refine the brief, ensure alignment on leadership style, cultural fit and global collaboration.
Assessment
Candidates were evaluated on their technical and regulatory expertise, leadership style and ability to deliver change at global scale. The process explored experience in implementing global quality systems, harmonising processes across multiple sites and leading cultural transformation initiatives. Only those meeting the operational, strategic and cultural requirements progressed to final consideration.
Impact
The client appointed a Divisional VP of Global Quality with over 20 years of international experience. The new leader brought direct experience leading a similarly scaled organisation, extensive regulatory expertise, and a track record in operational excellence and global system implementation. The appointment strengthened the client’s global quality function, improving consistency, compliance and performance across all manufacturing sites.
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Get In Touch
To discuss how we can support your Executive Search and Contract & Interim requirements contact:
Ciarán McCaughey – Managing Director – Executive Search | ciaran.mccaughey@hrmrecruit.com | +35383 1420673
Shane Browne – Managing Director – International Operations | shane.browne@hrmrecruit.com | +353 1 6321865
Arlene Moran – Managing Director – Contract & Interim | arlene.moran@hrmrecruit.com | +353 86 3656648
Executive Search Case Study | Scaling Leadership Capability for a Greenfield Biologics Site
Role: Site Leadership Team (SLT)
Industry: Pharma & Biotech
Location: Ireland
Discovery
Our client, a global top-tier Pharma and Biotech organisation, initiated one of its most significant strategic investments: the development of a USD $1 billion+ greenfield Biologics Drug Substance facility in Munster, Ireland. This next-generation site was designed to expand the organisation’s manufacturing network and strengthen capacity for advanced biologics production for one of its flagship therapies.
Recognising that the required leadership capability did not exist within its global network, HRM was engaged to carry out an executive search to identify and secure key members of the Site Leadership Team. The talent requirements were highly specialised, demanding leaders with significant biologics Drug Substance experience and proven delivery within large-scale or greenfield environments. Munster’s regional talent landscape added additional complexity, with a limited local pool of experienced biologics professionals and strong competition from established biopharma employers.
Reach
Our team partnered closely with senior HR and project leadership to define the site’s leadership framework and map the global talent landscape. Our search focused on major biologics and Pharma hubs across Europe, the United States and Asia, enabling access to the most relevant senior talent. We targeted leaders across operations, quality, engineering and technical services with proven experience in biologics Drug Substance manufacturing and high-growth or greenfield site environments. By positioning the scale and strategic significance of the investment, we secured strong international engagement and attracted candidates with experience aligned to the demands of a next-generation biologics facility.
Assessment
Candidates were assessed for technical and leadership capability and experience in greenfield builds or major site expansions. Cultural alignment and adaptability were equally prioritised to ensure leaders could operate effectively within a fast-evolving, start-up-like environment, while integrating seamlessly into a global organisation. This ensured that selected individuals could support the site’s progression from design and construction through commissioning and into full operational readiness.
Impact
We delivered multiple strategic leadership appointments across operations, quality, engineering and technical services, establishing the core leadership infrastructure required to advance the site through its early development phases. These hires brought critical global biologics expertise to Ireland’s expanding life sciences sector, and positioned the organisation to progress confidently toward operational readiness. The leadership team continues to underpin the long-term success and growth of the client’s global biologics network.
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Get In Touch
To discuss how we can support your Executive Search and Contract & Interim requirements contact:
Ciarán McCaughey – Managing Director – Executive Search | ciaran.mccaughey@hrmrecruit.com | +353 83 1420673
Shane Browne – Managing Director – International Operations | shane.browne@hrmrecruit.com | +353 1 6321865
Arlene Moran – Managing Director – Contract & Interim | arlene.moran@hrmrecruit.com | +353 86 3656648
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Executive Search Case Study | Appointing a Chief Information Officer for a Global FMCG Organisation
Role: Chief Information Officer
Industry: FMCG and Distribution
Location: Europe
Discovery
Our client is a global FMCG organisation specialising in distribution to the retail and hospitality sectors. The business required a Chief Information Officer to lead its technology strategy and oversee systems integration, digital transformation and IT governance across multiple markets. This was a critical leadership appointment with a requirement for strong industry alignment, extensive systems expertise and the ability to influence across a complex international organisation.
Reach
We conducted a comprehensive executive search beginning with senior technology leaders across the EU who had operated in FMCG, distribution or adjacent fast moving sectors. Our Talent Intelligence team mapped talent with proven experience in large scale systems transformation, ERP optimisation and digital capability building. Drawing on our international network and sector knowledge, we identified leaders who combined technical depth with the commercial acumen required for this role.
Assessment
We applied our four dimensional assessment process, including competency based interviews, SHL OPQ leadership and candidate skills assessments. Close to 80 professionals were assessed for leadership style, digital strategy expertise, change management capability and long-term organisational alignment. A shortlist of six fully qualified candidates was presented, each evaluated rigorously against the organisation’s technical and cultural requirements.
Impact
HRM secured the appointment of a high calibre CIO from a direct competitor who demonstrated significant industry insight and a track record of leading systems modernisation in complex environments. The individual was strongly aligned with the organisation’s growth plans and culture and brought immediate impact to the global technology function.
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Get In Touch
To discuss how we can support your Executive Search and Contract & Interim requirements contact:
Ciarán McCaughey – Managing Director – Executive Search | ciaran.mccaughey@hrmrecruit.com | +35383 1420673
Shane Browne – Managing Director – International Operations | shane.browne@hrmrecruit.com | +353 1 6321865
Arlene Moran – Managing Director – Contract & Interim | arlene.moran@hrmrecruit.com | +353 86 3656648
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Executive Search Case Study | Appointing a VP Supply Chain for a Global Pharmaceutical Organisation
Role: VP Supply Chain
Industry: Pharma
Location: Ireland
Discovery
Our client, a US pharmaceutical organisation with its corporate headquarters in Dublin, Ireland required a VP Supply Chain to lead its global planning and logistics function. This was a critical appointment that demanded a leader with significant technical expertise in global supply chain operations and the credibility to influence across multiple regions. The client also required a long term hire with a meaningful connection to the Irish market to ensure continuity, stakeholder alignment and long term organisational fit.
Reach
HRM conducted a comprehensive executive search beginning with senior supply chain leaders in the Irish market before expanding to a global talent map. Our research focused on identifying individuals who had operated at scale in pharmaceutical or adjacent regulated environments and who had demonstrable experience working with or relocating to Ireland. We leveraged our international network and specialised talent intelligence function to identify candidates who could bring both strategic vision and hands-on operational leadership.
Assessment
We applied our four dimensional assessment process which includes competency based interviews, SHL OPQ leadership and candidate skills assessments. This approach provided the client with a clear understanding of each candidate’s leadership style, operational depth and ability to manage complex global planning and logistics functions. Cultural alignment and long term suitability were also evaluated to ensure the appointed leader would integrate effectively into the Dublin-based headquarters.
Impact
The client appointed an experienced expat supply chain leader based in the EU who was seeking to return to Ireland with their family. The individual brought significant global planning and logistics experience and the ability to immediately influence cross-functional teams. This hire provided stability, strengthened global supply chain governance and supported the organisation’s long term operational strategy from its Dublin headquarters.
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Get In Touch
To discuss how we can support your Executive Search and Contract & Interim requirements contact:
Ciarán McCaughey – Managing Director – Executive Search | ciaran.mccaughey@hrmrecruit.com | +35383 1420673
Shane Browne – Managing Director – International Operations | shane.browne@hrmrecruit.com | +353 1 6321865
Arlene Moran – Managing Director – Contract & Interim | arlene.moran@hrmrecruit.com | +353 86 3656648
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Executive Search Case Study | Appointing a Chief Executive to Lead a National Not-for-Profit Organisation
Role: CEO
Industry: Not-for-profit
Location: Ireland
Discovery
Following the planned retirement of the Chief Executive, the board of a mission-driven not-for-profit needed to appoint a new CEO to lead the organisation into its next strategic phase. The brief required a leader capable of translating strategy into operational delivery while overseeing day-to-day operations. The challenge centred on finding an individual with deep sector insight, the ability to navigate a complex stakeholder environment, and strong alignment with the organisation’s purpose and values.
Reach
Given the highly specific brief, HRM’s Executive Search and Talent Intelligence teams leveraged their established executive network, engaging trusted referrals and senior contacts to identify candidates with the right blend of sector experience and leadership capability. We developed comprehensive briefing materials outlining the organisation’s mission, strategic priorities, and impact potential, ensuring candidates were fully informed and aligned from the outset.
Assessment
We built a structured competency framework to evaluate both leadership capability and values alignment, recognising the financial constraints and purpose-driven culture of the organisation. Assessment focused on strategic delivery, operational leadership, stakeholder engagement, and intrinsic motivation to lead in a mission-driven environment.
Impact
Within six weeks, a strong shortlist was delivered, with all shortlisted candidates progressing to interview. The board appointed a new Chief Executive with the stakeholder relationships, strategic foresight, and leadership capacity to guide the organisation through its next phase of transformation. The appointment provides essential continuity while bringing renewed momentum for future growth.
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Get In Touch
To discuss how we can support your Executive Search and Contract & Interim requirements contact:
Ciarán McCaughey – Managing Director – Executive Search | ciaran.mccaughey@hrmrecruit.com | +35383 1420673
Shane Browne – Managing Director – International Operations | shane.browne@hrmrecruit.com | +353 1 6321865
Arlene Moran – Managing Director – Contract & Interim | arlene.moran@hrmrecruit.com | +353 86 3656648
Executive Search Case Study | Building a Leadership Team for a Global Biologics Organisation’s Greenfield Manufacturing Site
Role: Site Leadership Team (SLT)
Industry: Biologics
Location: Ireland
Discovery
Our client, a global biologics organisation, initiated the development of a USD $500 million greenfield Drug Substance manufacturing facility in Leinster, Ireland. As a new site, the organisation needed to build its leadership and technical teams from the ground up while managing a demanding construction, commissioning and operational readiness programme.
The talent requirements were highly specialised, requiring leaders with significant biologics manufacturing expertise and experience in greenfield site builds or large-scale expansion environments. Limited regional availability of specialised biologics professionals and strong competition for senior leaders capable of shaping a next-generation biologics facility added complexity and underscored the need for a global executive search strategy.
Reach
From project inception, HRM partnered with senior HR and project leadership to define the leadership structure and map the international talent landscape. Our reach extended across major global biologics, biopharma and drug substance manufacturing hubs in Europe, the United States and Asia to ensure access to the strongest and most relevant talent pools.
We targeted senior operations, quality, engineering and supply chain leaders with proven experience in large-scale biologics manufacturing and exposure to greenfield or high-growth environments. By positioning the scale of the investment and the opportunity to shape a next-generation biologics site, we secured strong international engagement and attracted senior candidates with directly comparable experience.
Assessment
Candidates were evaluated for biologics operations expertise, leadership capability and experience in greenfield or expansion environments. Assessment focused on operational excellence and the ability to build teams, systems and processes within a newly constructed facility. Cultural alignment and adaptability were also critical, ensuring shortlisted leaders could succeed in a start-up-like environment while integrating effectively into a global organisation. This approach ensured the selected leaders could drive the site from construction through commissioning and into full operational readiness.
Impact
Within an accelerated timeline, we delivered multiple appointments across the Site Leadership Team, establishing a strong leadership foundation ahead of key construction milestones. These hires strengthened the organisation’s ability to attract additional specialist talent in a competitive regional market. The newly appointed leaders played a central role in advancing the site’s early operational readiness and supported the organisation’s long-term growth trajectory in Ireland.
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Get In Touch
To discuss how we can support your Executive Search and Contract & Interim requirements contact:
Ciarán McCaughey – Managing Director – Executive Search | ciaran.mccaughey@hrmrecruit.com | +353 83 1420673
Shane Browne – Managing Director – International Operations | shane.browne@hrmrecruit.com | +353 1 6321865
Arlene Moran – Managing Director – Contract & Interim | arlene.moran@hrmrecruit.com | +353 86 3656648
Executive Search Case Study | Building Strategic Leadership Capability for a Greenfield Biologics Drug Product Facility
Role: Site Leadership Team (SLT)
Industry: Pharma & Biotech
Location: Europe
Discovery
Our client, a global top-ten Pharma and Biotech organisation, initiated a USD $1 billion+ investment to develop a greenfield Biologics Drug Product and Device Assembly facility in South West Germany. The site represented a major expansion of the organisation’s European manufacturing footprint and was critical to its long-term global supply strategy. With limited internal mobility options, the client required external senior leadership talent with biologics Drug Product expertise and experience guiding new facilities from construction to commercial readiness. The regional talent market intensified this challenge due to strong competition for experienced life sciences professionals.
Reach
HRM partnered with senior HR and project leadership to define the site’s leadership framework and map the global talent landscape. Our search covered major Biologics, Drug Product, Fill-Finish and Device Assembly hubs across Europe, the United States and Asia, ensuring access to relevant senior talent. We targeted leaders with proven experience scaling biologics Drug Product operations or supporting greenfield manufacturing environments. By positioning the role as a rare opportunity to shape a world-class facility within a leading global organisation, we generated strong international engagement from suitably qualified candidates.
Assessment
Candidates were evaluated for technical depth in Drug Product and Device Assembly operations, leadership capability, and experience navigating greenfield or large-scale expansion programmes. We prioritised individuals able to build teams, systems and processes within a newly constructed facility, and who demonstrated adaptability to operate effectively in a fast-evolving environment while integrating into a global organisation.
Impact
HRM delivered several strategic leadership appointments across Operations, Engineering and Supply Chain, forming the core leadership capability required for early site development. These hires introduced global biologics expertise into the organisation’s European network and enabled a smooth transition from design through commissioning and into operational readiness. The project demonstrates how targeted executive search accelerates leadership readiness and reduces execution risk in capital-intensive Biopharma expansions.
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Get In Touch
To discuss how we can support your Executive Search and Contract & Interim requirements contact:
Ciarán McCaughey – Managing Director – Executive Search | ciaran.mccaughey@hrmrecruit.com | +353 83 1420673
Shane Browne – Managing Director – International Operations | shane.browne@hrmrecruit.com | +353 1 6321865
Arlene Moran – Managing Director – Contract & Interim | arlene.moran@hrmrecruit.com | +353 86 3656648
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Executive Search Case Study | Building Engineering Leadership for a Global Biotech Expansion
Role: Senior Director, Engineering
Industry: Biopharmaceuticals
Location: Europe
Discovery
A global biotechnology leader investing over $2 billion USD in a greenfield biopharma manufacturing facility in Europe required a Senior Director of Engineering to lead the design, construction and operational readiness of the new sterile fill-finish site.
The role required a combination of technical expertise in biologics and sterile manufacturing, leadership capability, and experience managing large-scale capital projects. Finding candidates with this blend, who could relocate and operate effectively in a rapidly scaling, global organisation created a highly targeted talent pool.
Reach
We conducted a global executive search, mapping senior engineering leaders across Europe, North America and Asia with experience in sterile operations and capital project environments. Our approach leveraged our extensive sector networks to identify both active and passive candidates capable of delivering the technical and leadership outcomes required.
Close collaboration with the client ensured alignment on cultural fit, strategic priorities and relocation considerations. Together, we developed a relocation and integration strategy to ensure a seamless transition into the new European hub.
Assessment
Candidates were evaluated on their track record in designing and commissioning sterile fill-finish facilities, leadership of large-scale teams and ability to operate in a start-up environment. Leadership style, cultural alignment, and operational execution capability were assessed through structured interviews and market insights.
Impact
A Senior Director of Engineering with over 20 years of biologics experience was appointed within a compressed timeline. The appointment accelerated site readiness and strengthened operational leadership for the $2B project, enhanced the client’s talent brand in the European biotech market and established a foundation for ongoing executive hiring across quality, operations and technical functions as the site scales toward full production.
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Get In Touch
To discuss how we can support your Executive Search and Contract & Interim requirements contact:
Ciarán McCaughey – Managing Director – Executive Search | ciaran.mccaughey@hrmrecruit.com | +35383 1420673
Shane Browne – Managing Director – International Operations | shane.browne@hrmrecruit.com | +353 1 6321865
Arlene Moran – Managing Director – Contract & Interim | arlene.moran@hrmrecruit.com | +353 86 3656648
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Executive Search Case Study | Building Global Analytical Leadership in a Generics Pharma Organisation
Role: Senior Director, Global Analytical Development
Industry: Generics Pharmaceutical
Location: UK
Discovery
A global generics pharmaceutical organisation, with annual revenues exceeding $20 billion and significant R&D operations in the UK, engaged HRM to identify and appoint a Senior Director, Global Analytical Development. The role held strategic responsibility for leading analytical development activities across global R&D, ensuring scientific excellence, compliance and alignment with the company’s product development strategy for small molecule drug products.
This executive search presented a highly specific technical and leadership brief. This included proven expertise in analytical development for small molecule drug products, extensive understanding around regulatory expectations and analytical strategies supporting development and commercialisation, and a track record in leadership and stakeholder management within large-scale R&D organisations.
The client’s preference for a UK-based appointment added complexity, as the local market for such niche expertise was limited.
Reach
Our Talent Intelligence team conducted a targeted search across the UK and broader European pharmaceutical market, focusing on candidates from major generics and pharmaceutical organisations. Our approach included mapping competitors with comparable analytical and product development structures, identifying leaders with hands-on analytical development experience and relevant product exposure, and engaging candidates who combined scientific expertise with leadership experience and cultural fit.
Assessment
Shortlisted candidates were evaluated for their technical and scientific expertise in small molecule analytical development, leadership of multi-site R&D teams and ability to deliver robust analytical strategies supporting global product pipelines. Candidates were also assessed on cultural alignment with the client’s values and strategic priorities. Close collaboration with the client ensured clarity on success criteria and candidate expectations throughout the process.
Impact
We appointed a Senior Director from a directly comparable competitor who brought extensive experience in analytical development, multi-site leadership and global product strategy execution. This appointment has strengthened the client’s analytical leadership capability within its UK R&D hub, supporting the advancement of the current portfolio and enabling the development of future product platforms.
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Get In Touch
To discuss how we can support your Executive Search and Contract & Interim requirements contact:
Ciarán McCaughey – Managing Director – Executive Search | ciaran.mccaughey@hrmrecruit.com | +35383 1420673
Shane Browne – Managing Director – International Operations | shane.browne@hrmrecruit.com | +353 1 6321865
Arlene Moran – Managing Director – Contract & Interim | arlene.moran@hrmrecruit.com | +353 86 3656648
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Executive Search Case Study | Attracting Global Quality Leaders to Elevate Standards and Scale Excellence
Role: Global Quality Systems Leader & Global Design Assurance Leader
Industry: Medical Devices
Location: Corporate Headquarters – Oceania Region
Discovery
A leading global medical devices organisation sought to strengthen its corporate quality function by appointing two key global leadership roles, a Global Quality Systems Leader and a Global Design Assurance Leader, to be based at its corporate headquarters. Both roles required extensive global leadership expertise in medical device quality in highly regulated environments and across multiple geographies and product portfolios. The hiring challenge was significant. The local talent pool lacked global systems and design assurance expertise. International relocation was necessary, narrowing the available candidate market.
Reach
We led an international executive search across U.S. and European medical device markets, mapping senior global quality leaders within top-tier organisations. Candidate engagement focused on attracting executives with multinational experience, proven quality leadership across diverse product portfolios and a willingness to relocate to the Oceania region.
Assessment
Shortlisted leaders were assessed on relevant global leadership expertise, strategic capability, cultural adaptability and relocation readiness. We worked closely with corporate and regional HR to calibrate expectations around career trajectory, relocation and integration.
Impact
Two internationally experienced leaders were appointed from major global device manufacturers. Both have strengthened global quality governance, design assurance standards and alignment of systems across sites worldwide— supporting the organisation’s continued growth and commitment to patient safety and product integrity.
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Get In Touch
To discuss how we can support your Executive Search and Contract & Interim requirements contact:
Ciarán McCaughey – Managing Director – Executive Search | ciaran.mccaughey@hrmrecruit.com | +35383 1420673
Shane Browne – Managing Director – International Operations | shane.browne@hrmrecruit.com | +353 1 6321865
Arlene Moran – Managing Director – Contract & Interim | arlene.moran@hrmrecruit.com | +353 86 3656648
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Executive Search Case Study | Enabling Global Expansion Through Strategic Medical Leadership in Women’s Health
Role: Global Medical Director
Industry: Pharma
Location: Europe
Discovery
Our client, a European-headquartered multinational pharmaceutical company with over 2,000 employees, is a leader in both Women’s and Men’s Health. As part of its continued international expansion, the company sought to appoint a Global Medical Director to strengthen medical leadership and strategic oversight within its Women’s Health business unit.
The role carried responsibility for medical strategy, scientific leadership and cross-regional alignment of clinical and regulatory activities within the Women’s Health portfolio. It required a qualified medical doctor (MD) with proven pharmaceutical industry experience, strong therapeutic expertise in Women’s Health or adjacent areas, and a track record of collaborating with global and regional teams. The role was Europe-based, further narrowing a talent pool already limited by the combination of requirements.
Reach
We conducted a pan-European executive search targeting senior global and regional medical affairs leaders in mid-to large-scale pharmaceutical organisations. Our research focused on profiles with Women’s Health, Endocrinology or Reproductive Medicine experience and a background managing global or regional medical responsibilities. Candidate mapping covered key European life sciences hubs, including the UK, Switzerland, Germany, France, Ireland and the Nordics.
Assessment
Evaluation centred on medical credentials, depth of therapeutic expertise, international medical affairs leadership and ability to influence across varied markets and regulatory environments. We worked closely with the client’s HR and divisional leadership to maintain alignment on priorities around experience, leadership approach and cultural fit throughout the search process.
Impact
The appointed Global Medical Director brought medical qualifications and over 12 years of international medical affairs leadership, with direct Women’s Health expertise and a proven record leading global medical strategy. This hire strengthened medical leadership, enhanced global alignment across key markets and supported the organisation’s continued expansion in Women’s Health.
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Get In Touch
To discuss how we can support your Executive Search and Contract & Interim requirements contact:
Ciarán McCaughey – Managing Director – Executive Search | ciaran.mccaughey@hrmrecruit.com | +35383 1420673
Shane Browne – Managing Director – International Operations | shane.browne@hrmrecruit.com | +353 1 6321865
Arlene Moran – Managing Director – Contract & Interim | arlene.moran@hrmrecruit.com | +353 86 3656648
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Executive Search Case Study | Appointing a Senior Director of EU Regulatory Affairs for a Growing US Pharmaceutical Organisation
Role: Senior Director EU Regulatory Affairs
Industry: Pharma
Location: Europe
Discovery
Our client, a fast-growing US-based pharmaceutical company, was expanding into Europe and establishing a new regional headquarters to drive regulatory, commercial and strategic operations. To support this expansion, the organisation sought to build a local leadership team capable of navigating the complexities of EU regulatory frameworks while maintaining the agility of a growing, entrepreneurial business. They required a Senior Director of EU Regulatory Affairs to:
Lead regulatory strategy and submissions across multiple EU territories
Partner with cross-functional teams to support product approvals and lifecycle management
Establish regulatory processes suitable for a small, growing organisation entering a highly regulated market
The challenge lay in finding a leader with both EU regulatory expertise and experience working in smaller, fast-scaling pharmaceutical or biotech organisations. Many candidates had strong multinational experience but lacked the agility, adaptability and entrepreneurial mindset needed for a start-up environment, significantly narrowing the available talent pool.
Reach
We conducted a European-focused executive search, mapping senior regulatory leaders across the UK, Germany, Switzerland and the Nordics. Our research targeted professionals with regulatory experience in small to mid-sized pharma or biotech companies, particularly those with hands-on EU market experience who could navigate EU regulatory complexity while thriving in a smaller, dynamic organisation.
Assessment
Candidates were evaluated on technical proficiency, strategic leadership and cultural alignment with an entrepreneurial organisation entering a complex market. Close collaboration with the client ensured shared clarity on competencies, leadership expectations and long-term growth objectives for the new European HQ.
Impact
We appointed a Senior Director of EU Regulatory Affairs based in the UK, bringing extensive multi-territory EU regulatory experience and a proven record of building agile regulatory teams. The new leader has established a strong regulatory foundation, enabling the client’s successful European market entry and supporting future commercial expansion.
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Get In Touch
To discuss how we can support your Executive Search and Contract & Interim requirements contact:
Ciarán McCaughey – Managing Director – Executive Search | ciaran.mccaughey@hrmrecruit.com | +35383 1420673
Shane Browne – Managing Director – International Operations | shane.browne@hrmrecruit.com | +353 1 6321865
Arlene Moran – Managing Director – Contract & Interim | arlene.moran@hrmrecruit.com | +353 86 3656648
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Executive Search Case Study | Appointing a Senior Director to Advance Test Method Systems & Moulding in Global Biopharma
Role: Senior Director, Test Method Systems & Moulding
Industry: Pharma/Bio (Combination Product)
Location: US
Discovery
Our client, a leading US-headquartered global biopharmaceutical organisation with over 40,000 employees, was scaling rapidly due to growth across its biologics and combination product portfolio. To support this, the business sought to strengthen leadership within its Delivery Devices Division by appointing a Senior Director, Test Method Systems & Moulding.
This newly created position would be responsible for:
Leading a large multi-disciplinary team across engineering and quality functions
Driving innovation and standardisation in test method systems and moulding for delivery devices
Partnering globally across manufacturing and R&D to enable combination product development and commercialisation
The talent pool for this role was extremely limited. The brief required candidates to have extensive combination-product expertise (drug–device interface) with advanced technical capability in injection moulding and test method engineering. In addition, proven leadership in a regulated environment was crucial to the role.
Location added further complexity, with intense regional competition for senior technical talent and limited relocation appeal due to cost dynamics.
Reach
We delivered a US-focused executive search targeting:
Senior technical and operations leaders in leading biopharma and medical device manufacturers with established combination product pipelines
Competitor organisations known for advanced delivery device and drug–device integration capabilities
A select number of specialist contract development and manufacturing organisations (CDMOs)
Our research combined market mapping, discreet networking, and targeted outreach to identify individuals performing equivalent roles in directly comparable environments. Close partnership with the client’s HR and technical leadership ensured alignment on technical scope, leadership expectations and market realities throughout.
Assessment
We evaluated candidates for technical expertise and their ability to lead high-performing teams across global R&D and manufacturing. Cultural alignment, capacity to scale and experience supporting fast-growth product portfolios were key. Regional competition and relocation constraints were assessed early to prioritise viable, high-value candidates.
Impact
The successful appointee joined from a direct competitor, where they led an equivalent function in a regulated US biologics and delivery device environment. With 15+ years of device development and test method leadership, alongside proven moulding and verification expertise, they brought immediate relevance and capability.
Explore more Executive Search case studies here.
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Get In Touch
To discuss how we can support your Executive Search and Contract & Interim requirements contact:
Ciarán McCaughey – Managing Director – Executive Search | ciaran.mccaughey@hrmrecruit.com | +35383 1420673
Shane Browne – Managing Director – International Operations | shane.browne@hrmrecruit.com | +353 1 6321865
Arlene Moran – Managing Director – Contract & Interim | arlene.moran@hrmrecruit.com | +353 86 3656648
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Executive Search Case Study | Scaling Technical Operations in a High-Growth Pharma Organisation
Role: Global Head of Technical Operations
Industry: Life Sciences
Location: Europe
Discovery
A rapidly expanding pharmaceutical company of approximately 1,000 employees faced a critical challenge - integrating newly acquired products while scaling technical operations and improving performance with external manufacturing partners during this period of rapid expansion. The role required a rare combination of skills:
Technical expertise in biologics
Experience scaling international operations
Hands-on operational capability
The ability to integrate acquisitions all while aligning with the company’s collaborative, high-performance culture.
Reach
We conducted a targeted global executive search, focusing on senior leaders with proven experience scaling technical operations in high-growth pharmaceutical businesses. Our research and engagement strategy prioritised individuals who could operate strategically, while remaining closely involved in execution. Close collaboration with the executive team ensured cultural alignment, strategic vision, and leadership approach were central to the process.
Assessment
Candidates were rigorously evaluated on their track record in operational leadership, international growth, and change management. This included their ability to build global technical frameworks, enhance supplier performance, and integrate complex product portfolios. The shortlisted leaders demonstrated both strategic capability and hands-on execution expertise, ensuring an excellent fit for the organisation’s current and future needs.
Impact
Through our partnership, the organisation appointed a globally experienced leader who has strengthened oversight of external manufacturing partners, built scalable international structures and driven seamless integration of acquired products. Their leadership has transformed the company’s technical operations and positioned it for sustained growth and success in a highly competitive global market.
Explore more Executive Search case studies here.
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Get In Touch
To discuss how we can support your Executive Search and Contract & Interim requirements contact:
Ciarán McCaughey – Managing Director – Executive Search | ciaran.mccaughey@hrmrecruit.com | +35383 1420673
Shane Browne – Managing Director – International Operations | shane.browne@hrmrecruit.com | +353 1 6321865
Arlene Moran – Managing Director – Contract & Interim | arlene.moran@hrmrecruit.com | +353 86 3656648
EMEA Sales Director
Industry: Manufacturing
Location: EMEA, based in Germany
The Challenge
This was a pivotal hire following a number of strategic acquisitions as the business scaled across the EMEA region. The organisation needed a highly strategic and operational senior director to align commercial structures across a fragmented group of subsidiaries. The aim was to accelerate organic growth while unifying regional efforts. Key challenges included the geographical spread of the organisation and the need to secure a high-calibre executive with deep industry expertise and the agility to thrive in a fast-paced, profit-oriented environment.
Our Approach
We conducted deep research into key markets and competitor organisations to uncover sector-specific leadership talent. Engaging with this executive-level audience required a bespoke approach to ensure messaging was impactful and interest was piqued. Once a pool of relevant candidates was identified, we used tailored competency questions and psychometric evaluation to assess cultural alignment – a critical success factor for this appointment.
The Outcome
We secured a highly effective leader from a major competitor in the region, bringing with them both deep market insight and a proven ability to drive growth at scale.
Senior Director: Finance & Operations
Industry: Pharmaceutical
Germany
The Challenge
We were retained to appoint the senior leadership team for a multi-billion Euro greenfield site in Germany. A key appointment was the Senior Director, Finance & Operations, due to the complexity of managing financial and operational planning during the build phase. The ideal candidate needed strong pharma experience, large-scale manufacturing exposure, and had to support diversity goals.
Our Approach
We worked closely with both site and global leadership to define must-have criteria. Mapping key donor organisations helped us narrow the search, and our approach to candidates was carefully aligned with the client's employer brand and communication preferences.
The Outcome
We delivered a high-calibre shortlist, with three finalists progressing to final stage. The chosen candidate was hired and onboarded within a tight timeline, critical due to construction-related cost pressures. Their early start played a vital role in the successful rollout of the site.
Head of Corporate Development
Industry: Property Development
Location: Ireland
The Challenge
This succession hire came at a crucial juncture as the organisation was shaping its five-year growth strategy. Success depended on identifying an executive with rare and in-demand expertise, who could influence long-term business outcomes while also aligning with the firm’s culture and values.
Our Approach
We leveraged our executive network to source talent via referrals and recommendations. Given the passive nature of the talent pool, we adopted a highly bespoke approach, developing a detailed candidate engagement framework. Each interaction was supported by customised briefing materials that clearly articulated the long-term strategic value of the role.
The Outcome
Within six weeks, we delivered a strong shortlist, all of whom proceeded to interview. The appointed executive aligned perfectly with the client’s vision and was secured within budget and on time.
CONTRACT & INTERIM
YOUR KEY CONTRACTORS, WE DELIVER THEM.
TALENT INTELLIGENCE
DATA DRIVEN TALENT INSIGHTS.