
The brief
The brief was to recruit a Head of HR with a strong track record of successfully directing banking activities both within the UK and EMEA, covering both strategic and operational engagement. The UK operations of the Bank were at a very interesting point in their development. The Bank had experienced steady, progressive growth over the last 4 years, and required an individual to strategically enhance this expansion.
At the time of engaging with psd, the departure of the current Head of HR was imminent, which imposed significant time pressures on this hire.
The solution
psd advised NBK to go to market with two roles, one permanent and one interim, to cover the immediate need to fill the role and facilitate a hand-over with the out-going Head of HR. This reduced the time pressure for the permanent hire and enabled psd to conduct a thorough assessment of current Heads of HR working in similar or complimentary financial services businesses.
The results
psd sourced and quickly supplied the interim Head of HR to provide the required buffer for the business. The process for the permanent hire was implemented swiftly and an extensive map of the market was carried out. Candidates were benchmarked against the requirements, and the client was presented with a comprehensive shortlist. The shortlisted candidates proceeded to interview with the client and were put through professional testing before two candidates were selected for a final interview. During this process, the interim candidate psd placed also expressed an interest in the permanent role and the client was in the fortunate position of having a choice of two final candidates and an interim who had already impressed with their skills and experience.
psd‘s processes and advice provided the right level of choice for the client. They were delighted with the candidates presented and the process from the very start of the long list development to the successful candidates start date, took no longer than 7 weeks!
This is typical of a psd assignment and it accurately reflects our 25+ years as a leading HR sector recruitment consultancy.
Business Sector: Banking & Financial Services
Specialist Practice: HR