This business is an iconic, UK general retailer with a store footprint across the whole of the country. It has a rich and successful heritage focused around value, service and innovation. The business has invested significantly in their operation over the course of the last five years and this is paying dividends in terms of strong revenue flows and enhanced margin.

The Brief

Our client briefed Drayton Partners to secure a new Supply Director for the business, sitting in their 'top 50' senior managers. The individual would be a key player within their Supply Chain function.

The retailer was obviously interested in assessing individuals from competitor businesses but was also keen to see people from the manufacturing/supply arena. Within the UK their Supply Chain function is genuinely market-leading, making this appointment particularly key.

Drayton Partners approach

The team generated a map of the market which focused on two key areas - retail and manufacturing. Individuals were predominantly drawn from UK, European and North American businesses. Screening interviews were held in London where more than 20 individuals were met.

• Developing and building relationships with contract manufacturers
• Developing and growing relationships with internal teams - innovation, marketing, manufacturing
• Maintaining an external supplier network
• Project managing innovation projects to time, cost and quality
• Researching and presenting information on UK (and international) food manufacturers’ capabilities

Outcome

The resultant shortlist was made up of senior individuals from a mix of UK retailers and global FMCG manufacturers. A highly competitive interview process saw the shortlist narrowed to two relevant individuals who were invited to a more thorough assessment process. The business identified one candidate who they felt best reflected their values. The successful recruit was headhunted from a European FMCG business.

1. Developing and building relationships with contract manufacturers
2. Developing and growing relationships with internal teams - innovation, marketing, manufacturing
3. Maintaining an external supplier network
4. Project managing innovation projects to time, cost and quality
5. Researching and presenting information on UK (and international) food manufacturers’ capabilities

Ian Pickett, Partner, commented:

"Drayton partners have carried out a number of assignments for our business, and have delivered consistently good results for us. Their team take considerable care to really understand our business and its culture, and explore with us what would make someone successful in the role. They quickly establish rapport with line managers and can ask perceptive questions that both stretch and challenge our thinking. The Drayton team have strong research skills, and they have demonstrated an excellent understanding of both UK and international markets, and generated impressive candidates in some demanding areas. I can also rely on the team to keep me up to date on progress, and give me sound counsel if we encounter any issues. Feedback from candidates about their experience has been universally positive, and I know that our employment brand is in safe hands when we work with the team at Drayton Partners". Head of Executive Recruitment