Cast Metal and Die Casting Times Oct/Nov 2006
Is it Interim or Permanent?
The changing markets and international competitiveness in the broad spectrum of the Foundry and Casting world is reflected in an ever increasing demand for improved quality and shorter delivery times that have often been the norm in many of the leading European Foundries.
It is this changing pattern of market demand that is now being experienced by many of the foundries in Far East and other parts of the world that has led to a demand for highly skilled Technical/Production/Engineering Managers. These Managers can advice and implement current ‘high quality’ practises to the foundry that requires this knowledge.
Not only is this demand required in the field of castings production but also it is now evident that the foundry suppliers of consumables etc also want to improve their technical know-how and production technology. The size of market value now appearing in the growing market areas, especially in the Far East is beginning to lead in a demand for highly competent experts.
During 2006 we have been asked by several clients to help and assist in locating suitably qualified personnel who have the ability to bring technical excellence and communication skills to the workplace.
These new and challenging opportunities have also indicated that there could be two routes that will satisfy our clients.
Initial thoughts have often been for a person to be employed on a long-term permanent role that will bring long- term benefits. This route is, of course, dependant on the candidate deciding to make the decision to undertake a long-term expatriate role.
However, we have also found that clients can also benefit from having an Interim Manager who can undertake a short term contract, view the initial problems, develop solutions and then begin the first phase of implementation and education of local personnel. This may, in due course, lead to a permanent appointment but it can also lead to an internal appointment from a local candidate who would then undertake the long-term role having benefited from the advice and guidance of the Interim Manager.
Whether the appointment is permanent or interim, the fundamental structure for a successful recruitment campaign remains the same. A detailed revue of the client’s business requirements have to be made and then there must be a clarification of the objectives required to be achieved with a clear understanding of the technical abilities and experience of the person to be appointed.
It is this detailed analysis at the early stages of a recruitment assignment that leads to success. In all cases we have been able to indicate to candidates the full requirement and responsibilities of the appointment. Furthermore an appreciation of the client’s management style and philosophy will also give the candidate a vital understanding of the job to be undertaken.
In the foundry market there is a wealth of talent and ability amongst management throughout the whole range of the casting world. It is this knowledge and expertise that makes these candidates appreciated by many foundries and associated manufacturers throughout the world.
Those with many years experience – the senior ambassadors of the industry- can be of special benefit to many of our clients, especially in the Middle and Far East.
In 2006 we concluded recruitment assignments in China, the Middle East and are currently in discussions with clients in India and Pakistan. There are still interesting appointments in Europe and the demand covers the whole range of technical, production, sales and marketing experts.
To those managers affected by closures and company reorganisations, especially in Europe, we ask them to look at the world market, at the opportunities which are now arising and where their knowledge and expertise is valued. The Interim or Permanent appointments are always given with excellent terms of contract, always reflecting the professional level of the appointment.
In 2007, we see the demand growing and hence we shall continue to develop further our global presence to assist clients and candidates in their search for improvement at all levels.
