The Brief
The client was a newly formed 'government owned' development company created to deliver and manage world class mixed-use assets in Abu Dhabi. Our brief was to appoint a Chief Development Officer with international exposure across multiple asset classes including mixed-use and residential.
Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer and the Board, it was essential that the Chief Development Officer appointed had significant exposure through the entire real estate development lifecycle including front end concept and feasibility, financial modelling, master planning and design through to construction phase. Due to the portfolio variance, the candidate needed to have worked across mutliple asset segments including hospitality, retail and master residential communities.
The Process
Having previously executed several search mandates of a similar nature and due to the urgency of the client, BCI efficiently compiled a long list of prospective candidates for the position who were all approached confidentially.
At the request of our client, a shortlist was presented within two weeks which included a total of five candidates, all of whom held the relevant experience and skill set required to undertake the position successfully. After a meeting to review all profiles presented, the client instructed BCI to arrange interviews for two candidates, both of whom went through a three-stage interview process, of which the final stage was a meeting with the Chairman of the organisation.
The Result
Following the final stage interviews with the Chairman, the successful candidate was identified by the client and BCI were instructed to move into negotiation stage and to close the position efficiently.
After the initial offer was presented, BCI managed the negotiation phase and closed the position successfully, overcoming some minor logistical issues as the candidate was not based in the UAE and had children mid-way through the academic year. The notice period of 3 months was seen out and the candidate joined on the agreed start date. During his tenure to date, the feedback from the client is that the appointment was a great success and thanked BCI for the execution of the mandate with further senior positions to follow.
The BCI Executive Search Difference
Our approach is different and that makes all the difference. By questioning common convention, we have developed a model that challenges the out-of-date methodologies and fee structures of traditional firms.
Exceptional talent
We perform in-depth due diligence to ensure that the talent we introduce is of the highest calibre and the best fit for your organisation.
Bespoke approach
We tailor our approach to each assignment and our team dedicates significant time to understanding your business, culture and specific requirements.
Industry leading results
To date, BCI Executive Search has 92% success rate, the industry average is 65%