Case Study

CEO, Sovereign Wealth Fund, UAE

The Challenge

This was a replacement assignment where the incumbent  was unaware of the board's intentions.  Therefore, the entire search was conducted in an extremely confidential manner.  Candidates were not to find out the client's identity until the interview date; a number of these high profile candidates were attracted from overseas.

The desired profile had to be a highly experienced insurance executive, who was an Arabic speaker, with a strong track record in international companies and markets.

The Search

The client's requirements were discussed in detail leading to an in-depth understanding of their strategic goals and desired profile.

Search parameters were identified, and major hubs in the MENA region (GCC + Levant, Morocco and Tunis) were set as the immediate targets.

Research was initiated to cover these countries, with sensitivity towards targets in the UAE, due to the confidential nature of the search.

The top two executives of all leading insurance entities in the Middle East were identified and targeted leading to a strong shortlist comprising executives from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Morocco and Egypt.

The client's identity was revealed to shortlisted candidates upon arrival in the UAE. One candidate was selected for immediate further pursuit, whilst two others were kept on hold as potential hires.  The selected candidate was further assessed and an offer was made to him which he accepted.

The Result

The new chief executive officer is now leading the company with great success, increasing its market share and improving regional and international recognition.