Executive Search for manufacturing companies - focusing Family Businesses, SME and Global Players
The current conditions for entrepreneurs and executive leaders of manufacturing companies are particularly complex and challenging. Overarching success factors such as sustainability, technological leadership or a drive for innovation are just as important as the competence of facing complex situations with appropriate and future-oriented solutions.
Our consulting approach is based on personal relationships and individualized care. We understand your unique challenges and needs based on our specialization and work closely with you to develop tailor-made solutions. In doing so, we establish enduring partnerships to enable long-term success for all parties involved.
The Practice Group Industrial serves as a partner to both internationally oriented mid-sized businesses and global players. Our consultants possess a pronounced industry focus with both sustainable networks and detailed market knowledge. Broad connections within the respective industries, as well as an understanding of structures, developments and challenges enable us to provide targeted guidance to our clients. Particularly in technology- and innovation-driven sectors, in the selection of executive leaders and to meet candidates on an equal footing.
Due to the wide heterogeneity of the questions and issues at hand, we further specialize on the following segments:
Industrial: sector segmentation
Mechanical & Plant Engineering
In the field of mechanical and plant engineering, remarkable trends have developed in recent years, which significantly shape the industry. Through the integration of digital processes companies optimize their production, create intelligent factories and enhance their maintenance systems (e.g. predictive maintenance). The combination of AI and increasing automation also leads to further efficiency gains. With the continuous integration of new technologies and the collaboration between humans and machines the future of this sector will continue to be marked by exciting developments and advancements.
Automotive / Mobility
Never has the automotive sector faced greater upheaval. As a technological trendsetter among manufacturing companies, the sector is rapidly evolving and driving the digitalization era. This transformation, fueled by groundbreak-ing trends such as electromobility, autonomous driving, connected technolo-gies and innovative mobility services, will significantly shape the industry. Digitalization is increasingly accelerated through artificial intelligence and technologies such as augmented and virtual reality. In the mobility area, al-ternative transportation concepts such as mobility as a service will gain im-portance and remain highly challenging for the industry’s leaders.
Automation & Electronics
Solutions and products in the field of automation and electronics play a crucial role in our future, since they contribute to transforming and optimizing many areas of day-to-day life, the manufacturing industry and society in general. In addition to automating or supporting processes and workflows, they also enable the sustainable and efficient use of resources and energy, the control of mobility and traffic flows and the development of advanced diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. The field of automation and electronics is dynamically evolving and continues to show strong growth potential. Some trends that could shape the future of this industry include the use of AI and machine learning, the interaction between humans and machines, increasing connectivity, data capture and acceleration of data streams, as well as the development of green technologies. Overall, it is expected that solutions in the field of automation and electronics will continue to play a significant role in shaping a more efficient, sustainable and connected world, offering many new opportunities and challenges.
Building Technologies
Building Technologies play an important role in shaping modern, efficient and intelligent buildings. The energy transition, the pursuit of sustainability, supply shortages and the lack of skilled workers are increasing the requirements for businesses in the area of building technology. From intelligent building automation systems and energy-efficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning technologies to hygienic drinking water installations and advanced security and access control systems – the opportunities are diverse and exciting. The growing environmental awareness particularly influences the trend regarding the cooling and heating of the future with renewable energies such as heat pumps, solarthermics or biomass are gaining market share. Digitalization and trends like the Internet of Things also open new and exciting perspectives and further possibilities for building technology, transforming commercial buildings into smart living and working environments.
Paper & Packaging
The Paper & Packaging industry is facing pivotal changes as the demand for environmentally friendly and sustainable packaging solutions rises. We observe a clear trend towards innovative materials and biodegradable packaging to reduce the ecological footprint. With our deep understanding of industry-specific challenges, we assist companies in developing the next generation of packaging solutions that not only ensure the protection of products but also meet the requirements of a resource-conserving and environmentally conscious future.
Chemicals & Process Industries
In the Chemicals & Process industry, sustainability and circular economy are becoming increasingly important. Companies are striving for green production processes and eco-friendly products. Our partnerships extend across various companies including chemical manufacturers, petrochemical companies, pharmaceuticals, plastic and polymer producers as well as companies in the food and beverage industry that focus on process optimization and innovation. Together, we are shaping a more sustainable future by assisting companies in integrating sustainability into their business practices and minimizing ecological impacts.
Transportation & Logistics
The Transportation & Logistics sector is experiencing a revolution through technological advancements such as autonomous vehicles, intelligent supply chains and innovative transportation solutions. The ongoing digitalization enables more efficient control and monitoring of logistic processes, whilst the integration of IoT technologies allows for better real-time tracking of goods and optimized route planning. Companies are increasingly focusing on environmentally friendly solutions to reduce their ecological footprint by investing in the electrification of vehicle fleets and alternative fuels.
Utilities, Sustainable & Green Technologies
At a time where sustainability and environmental consciousness are constantly gaining more focus, renewable energies and green technologies are no longer merely niche areas but are significantly shaping the future. The trends in the sector open up exciting chances. From groundbreaking advancements in solar energy and efficient wind turbines to innovative solutions in the fields of storage and hydrogen technology, the development knows no bounds. The importance of decentralized energy generation, circular economy and the integration of digital technologies into renewable energy systems are further key future topics. Our clients are working on developing sustainable processes that not only protect the environment but also bring economic benefits.
Aerospace / Aviation / Defense & Security
The future in the fields of Aerospace, Aviation and Defense is characterized by continuous innovation, sustainability and international collaboration. The rapid development of technologies such as autonomous flying and advanced space technology opens new horizons for the industry. Companies are researching climate-friendly propulsion technologies, such as electric or hydrogen-powered engines and sustainably produced aviation fuel (SAF) as well as the development and implementation of sustainable technologies in areas such as lightweight construction of aircraft or Urban Air Mobility (UAM). All these developments are supported by the usage of artificial intelligence in this industry for optimized route planning, maintenance work and security systems.
Industrial: our services
Searching for and selecting managers
Through our industry network, we are in close contact with experienced professionals who can enhance your management team and key positions with the necessary experience and skills – this applies in particular to strategic staffing projects at top level, including executive board and management, as well as supervisory board and advisory board mandates.
Analysing and optimising remuneration and incentive systems
We develop – taking into account industry specifics – remuneration and performance management systems which bind particularly success-relevant people to your company for the long term.
Diagnostics and management assessments
With requirements-focused aptitude diagnostic procedures, we will support your company in filling strategic key positions, identifying talent and top performers and providing targeted management development.
Developing and implementing HR strategies
Developing and implementing people, employee and functional strategies will ensure the HR function can adapt to new requirements building on traditional HR areas.