Case Study: Executive Search for Site Leader in Scotland

A testimonial from a long-standing pharmaceutical client

We’ve partnered with Andy many times over the past 10 years, but this particular search was uniquely challenging—both confidential and high-profile. We were hiring for a Site Leader role in Scotland, and given our strong industry reputation, there was already significant market noise and internal sensitivity to manage.

From our initial briefing meeting, Andy stood out. He listened carefully, asked thoughtful and challenging questions, and helped refine our thinking around the role and candidate profile. We agreed on a comprehensive briefing document and market mapping approach, which not only shaped the search but also gave us insight into how our brand was perceived by candidates.

Just two weeks in, we received our first update: two aligned candidate profiles and a market map of 100 potential prospects. This transparency and early delivery gave us confidence that the process was in motion and our brief well understood. By week 3, we had a full shortlist—with detailed CVs, write-ups, and candidate insight.

We selected four out of five candidates for first-round interviews. It was clear they had been thoroughly briefed and well-prepared, which allowed us to focus on culture and leadership alignment instead of rehashing the basics. Three progressed to final interviews, which included a formal presentation. We’re known for being demanding in this stage, but the candidates came in prepared—clearly guided with care and professionalism by Andy.

Two finalists stood out, creating the best kind of challenge: deciding who to hire.

Andy then supported us with an objective, insightful comparison—packages, motivations, long-term fit—and helped us navigate the offer process with clarity and confidence. We never felt we were “gambling” on a candidate. He stayed closely involved all the way through to contract signing and resignation, which was a huge relief in managing our internal stakeholders.

Over recent years, Andy has consistently delivered. He understands our team dynamics and stakeholder expectations so well that internally we often ask, “Are we giving this to Andy?” Working with him is straightforward, honest, and always results-focused. He’s not afraid to raise the tough issues to get the right outcome.