Our Approach
Given the seniority of the role and the strength of the client’s brand within the region, the search required a carefully managed and discreet approach.
Rather than relying on traditional advertising alone, we focused on identifying established HR leaders already operating within comparable manufacturing environments.
The Process
Mapping senior HR professionals across South Yorkshire’s industrial and manufacturing sector
Conducting confidential conversations with candidates currently operating at Head of HR and HR Director level
Evaluating individuals not only on technical capability but also their ability to operate within a leadership team and influence organisational culture
Presenting a select shortlist of candidates who combined strategic HR capability with strong experience supporting operational workforces
This targeted search ensured the client was able to meet a small number of highly relevant candidates, ultimately securing a leader capable of shaping the organisation’s long-term people strategy.
Search Metrics
32 senior HR leaders mapped across South Yorkshire and surrounding regions
14 candidates engaged and screened
5 candidates progressed to shortlist
3 candidates interviewed by the client
The full search process was completed within 8 weeks, from initial briefing to offer acceptance.
The Outcome
The search resulted in the successful appointment of an experienced Head of HR with a strong background in manufacturing and workforce leadership.
The successful candidate brought:
Significant experience supporting large operational workforces
A strategic approach to people development and organisational culture
The ability to work closely with the leadership team to support long-term business growth
The appointment strengthened the organisation’s leadership structure and positioned the business to continue developing its people strategy as it moves into its next phase of growth.
Client Testimonial
“This was a key strategic hire for the business as we looked to strengthen our commercial leadership and drive growth. Shillito Commercial provided a focused and professional search process, presenting candidates with strong sector knowledge and proven business development capability.”
Managing Director
Confidential Manufacturing Business
Confidential Manufacturing Business
Appointing a Head of HR for a Leading South Yorkshire Manufacturer
The Challenge
A well-known manufacturing business in South Yorkshire required the appointment of a Head of HR to join its senior leadership team.
The organisation had built a strong reputation within its sector and employed a substantial workforce across its operations. As the business continued to evolve, leadership recognised the need to strengthen its people strategy through the appointment of an experienced HR leader.
The successful candidate would be responsible for supporting the company’s long-term workforce development, organisational culture, and leadership capability.
Key requirements included:
Experience operating within manufacturing or industrial environments
The ability to influence and support senior leadership teams
Strong expertise across employee engagement, organisational development, and HR strategy
A leadership style suited to operating within a well-established and respected brand
Given the importance of the appointment, the business engaged Shillito Human Resources on an exclusive basis to deliver the search.