Case Study - FFEI

Background

FFEI is a market leader in the design and manufacture of industrial digital imaging systems. A management buyout from Fujifilm in 2006, it has become known for its highly innovative and advanced technology product solutions which have attracted joint ventures with some of the world’s leading businesses in this sector.

The Challenge

FFEI asked us to us to find an Operations Manager, the position to be based at the newly established Hemel Hempstead manufacturing site. Reporting to the Operations Director, and leading an overall team of up to twenty people the Operations Manager  would be responsible for supply chain, engineering, and manufacturing performance across a range of imaging hardware and software products.. We needed to attract a manufacturing professional with several years operations management experience within a complex, low volume product environment.  It was also essential that they should have the personal characteristics to build lead and motivate a close knit team.

The Solution

An extensive search was conducted across the UK, targeting in particular companies manufacturing capital equipment.  Networking among existing known key players within the industry was also carried out. Half way through the search the Operations Director resigned and the requirement was now for an Operations Director who would also take on the Operations Manager’s responsibilities.  We managed to overcome this successfully by concentrating our efforts on candidates with the experience and potential to take on a larger role.

The Outcome

Having identified a total of ninety two individuals, we contacted thirty nine. Interviews were held with seven and a shortlist of four was presented to the client with comprehensive candidate reports. A candidate was identified with highly relevant manufacturing and change management experience, and above all the ability to grow within the business.  An offer was made and we played a part in ensuring its acceptance.  We maintained dialogue until the start date and beyond, and FFEI and he are both delighted with his progress.

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