Manufacturing
The advent of digital industrial technology, dubbed Industry 4.0, has given rise to a series of new challenges for manufacturers. Although tech and automation have transformed manufacturing— giving industrial companies an opportunity to harness new levels of productivity— it’s difficult to capitalize on opportunities for profitable growth because of constant disruption. A tight labor market and a diminished supply of skilled labor makes it difficult for industrial manufacturers to find the talent and leaders needed to sustain themselves. Many firms are rightsizing their portfolio, spinning off and divesting business units, while others are engaged in strategic merger and acquisition activity.
Further threats destabilizing the market include global trade disputes, tariffs and political instability.
For manufacturers, identifying, attracting and retaining top-level talent capable of leading through changes is a competitive advantage. They need specialized, learning-agile leaders capable of driving transformation in a lean environment to create new value for customers and stakeholders. These leaders must possess the expertise and strategic focus to extract growth from mature markets, optimize global supply chains, and enhance operational productivity—all while overseeing corporate culture and managing considerable risk.
As the world’s largest industrial search firm, we help industrial manufacturers solve these pressing challenges. Our manufacturing consultants serve businesses around the globe in every sector, including automation and control systems, building products and materials, capital equipment and machinery, chemicals, mechanical and electrical components, mobile equipment and machinery, and paper and packaging. We advise our clients on all aspects of the talent lifecycle, from recruitment to development to succession planning.