Company Name
Learning Resources
Search Job Title
Vice President of Operations
Client Profile
A manufacturing and toys & games company located in Vernon Hills, Illinois, with $45.3 million in revenue and 301 employees. It serves both B2B and B2C markets.
Role Objectives & Challenges
The role involved overseeing a 1-million-square-foot warehouse with potential for expansion to multiple locations. This followed the consolidation of two previous locations into a single warehouse, which the new hire would be expected to manage. Although the title was VP of Supply Chain, the responsibilities closely resembled those of a VP of Operations. This person was tasked with building out the supply chain team while remaining highly operational. The ideal candidate needed to oversee the end-to-end supply chain and operations and be comfortable upgrading any outdated warehouse and operational processes. They also needed to modernize processes and technologies to bring efficiencies to the facility. Since the company is privately and family-owned, the candidate had to thrive in a close-knit, insular environment.
Our Approach to Solve the Search
The search was conducted broadly, and sourcing was challenging due to the nature of the role. The search team included the CEO, CFO, and Global HR, as well as the founder and managing partner of SCM Talent Group. A rigorous interview process was conducted, with regular updates to keep executives informed on progress. The team approach ensured that sourcing and hiring met high standards, and client executives were confident in the level of service.
The Hire & Results
The candidate pool consisted of individuals either growth-oriented or from large companies with advanced technologies and defined processes. Five candidates were submitted, all of whom interviewed. The final candidate was chosen for his executive experience in distribution and operations, including leading a distribution network realignment across 12 locations. He had also served as a Senior VP, reporting directly to the President, and brought advanced analytics, technology, and operations experience, along with C-suite familiarity. His willingness to relocate to the client’s area made for a smooth transition.
