Client overview

A leading property development company with an established reputation for delivering high-quality residential and commercial projects across London and the South East required exceptional leadership to drive their construction operations. With a substantial development pipeline, 21 live construction projects worldwide, and ambitious growth plans, the business needed to rapidly expand their senior team.

The challenge

The developer faced a critical juncture requiring rapid team expansion across multiple senior positions. The company needed to recruit two Project Directors, one based in London and one in Spain, to support their worldwide portfolio whilst managing upcoming new builds and acquisitions. Additionally, they sought to centralise operations by bringing procurement in-house, requiring both a Commercial Director to oversee procurement and cost management globally, and a Procurement Director to establish a centralised FF&E service. The roles demanded candidates with proven track records in start-up environments within the hospitality sector.

Our approach

Leadership

Craig Douglas led this executive search assignment, bringing his unique combination of eight years in recruitment and 15 years in the built environment. His hands-on knowledge of the construction industry, particularly in technical and delivery aspects, proved invaluable in understanding the client's specific requirements and identifying candidates who could excel in these demanding roles.

Methodology

Talent mapping: Comprehensive mapping of the global hospitality development market to identify potential candidates across competing developers and asset managers worldwide, leveraging extensive internal networks and referrals from trusted senior industry figures.

Executive search framework: Structured approach specifically targeting professionals with proven track records in start-up environments within the hospitality sector, ensuring candidates possessed the entrepreneurial mindset required.

Consultative process: In-depth consultation with key stakeholders to understand cultural fit requirements and specific technical competencies essential for success within the company's dynamic environment.

Results

• Successfully placed two Project Directors, an Assistant Project Manager, a Procurement Director, and a Commercial Director within the agreed timeframe
• Achieved 100% shortlist-to-interview conversion rate
• Conducted initial technical vetting interviews, enabling the client's interviews to focus on cultural and personality fit
• Strong cultural alignment with the developer's values and working practices

Key success factors

Craig's deep understanding of the hospitality sector enabled precise candidate targeting and thorough market analysis. His established network within the built environment, combined with a consultative approach, ensured the client secured a leadership team who perfectly matched their requirements and company culture, positioning them for continued global growth and operational excellence.