CASE STUDY

TESTING SERVICES COMPANY SECURES SAVVY CEO

CEO | Automotive Engineering Services | Southeast Michigan

Private-Equity Sponsored

CASE STUDY

TESTING SERVICES COMPANY SECURES SAVVY CEO

CEO | Automotive Engineering Services
Southeast Michigan

Private-Equity Sponsored

LAYING THE FOUNDATION

After adding the client company to their portfolio, the private equity sponsor approached Townsend to lead the search for a new CEO. The company was underperforming, with a lagging commercial strategy.

The client tasked our search team with identifying a leader who could enhance the company’s value and attract new investors.

THE TOWNSEND SEARCH JOURNEY

The company occupies a niche sector of automotive engineering services. We knew it would be challenging to identify a candidate with the right balance of leadership, skills and experience.

After consulting with the client’s leadership, Townsend delivered an initial slate of prospects with specific experience within the company’s niche industry.

It quickly became apparent that the candidates lacked experience or were not a solid cultural fit. Our team regrouped and helped the client identify non-negotiables in the new CEO.

The right candidate needed a solid technical background and the ability to operate effectively in the automotive ecosystem. Beyond that, we set aside industry requirements. We then built a second pool of executives with the vision, expertise and energy to drive organizational growth.

DELIVERING TALENT. EMPOWERING CHANGE.

A firm winner quickly emerged from Townsend’s second slate of candidates. They had exceptional soft skills, high emotional intelligence and a solid technical background.

In just over two years, the candidate has transformed the company. He significantly contributed to the company’s value, tapping Townsend to help identify new sales leaders along the way.

When the company went to market, the new CEO led management presentations throughout the sale process. He successfully articulated the company’s progress and the opportunities ahead. In 2022, a strategic buyer acquired the company.

THE COMPANY

Private-equity sponsored

Repeat client

Seeking new investment

THE CANDIDATE

High emotional intelligence

Experience in the automotive industry

Ability to drive accountability in teams

LET'S TALK.

We see executive search as far more than filling a role—to us, it is a highly personalized process producing profoundly impactful leaders that fulfill long-term goals, influence strategic plans and impact decision-making across the organization.