Head of Business Development — International Oil Company

Oil & Gas

The Challenge

A leading international oil company contacted MSC Headhunters via referral regarding a highly urgent assignment. The company needed a worldwide Head of Business Development to negotiate high-value deals across multiple continents.

MSC Headhunting was retained due to the requirement for fast results, with a shortlist promised in just 3 weeks. The deadline was driven by the client’s Board of Directors attending an annual oil conference in Europe — presenting an ideal opportunity for interviews and quick decision-making.

Our Approach

MSC’s project delivery team worked intensively for a fortnight, creating a comprehensive candidate long list. Due to the time pressure and role seniority, MSC engaged researchers in Germany, Holland, and the UK to achieve fast results and approach candidates across Europe, the Middle East, and South America.

This multi-office approach enabled work across all time zones and weekends, speaking with candidates outside business hours. Face-to-face interviews with an MSC Director were arranged quickly, with the finalist shortlist presented just in time for the client meetings at the conference.

The Result

The highest-profile individual selected worked for the client’s biggest competitor. Following tense negotiations, he was offered a contract and accepted immediately. Upon beginning his new role, results were quickly achieved as the new employer provided strong value propositions to customers.

Following the positive impact of MSC’s retained service, the client engaged MSC again to source specialist managers — 2 General Managers for operations in Russia and South America. The search became easier as MSC already understood the client’s USPs and core business values.