Category Archives: For Employers

The Competitive Advantage of Diversity and Inclusion in Manufacturing Leadership

The Competitive Advantage of Diversity and Inclusion in Manufacturing Leadership

The future of manufacturing hinges on innovation and resilience—and increasingly, on the diversity of its leadership teams. In an era of rapid transformation, with technological disruption, supply chain complexities, and workforce evolution at play, manufacturers must rethink how they lead. Diversity in manufacturing leadership is emerging not just as a social ideal but as a […]

Retained Search Payment Schedule: A Guide to the 3-Installment Fee

The retained executive search model is built on mutual commitment and strategic alignment. Unlike contingency recruiting, where payment is due only upon placement, a retained search operates on a milestone-based schedule—typically in three installments—reflecting the value of a structured, consultative partnership. This article breaks down the 1/3, 1/3, 1/3 payment structure, what each phase entails, […]

What Happens to the Fee If the Retained Search Role Is Filled Internally?

When a company engages a retained search firm, they are investing in a strategic process—not just a successful hire. But what happens if, midway through that process, the company decides to hire someone internally instead? It’s a fair and frequently asked question, especially from CFOs, HR leaders, or procurement officers: “Do I have to pay […]

How Are Retained Search Candidate Travel Expenses Handled and Billed?

When it comes to retained executive search, the process extends far beyond identifying and vetting talent. One of the most overlooked — yet critical — aspects of the candidate experience is how travel expenses are handled and billed during interviews, site visits, or assessment meetings. Done right, this process enhances the client’s employer brand, ensures […]

Is Your Leadership Pipeline Empty? A Guide to Manufacturing Succession Planning

Passing the Baton: Secure Your Manufacturing Leadership Legacy

In today’s rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape, the biggest risk to your company’s future might not be a supply chain disruption or a market downturn — it could be an empty leadership pipeline. Many manufacturing business owners are so focused on day-to-day operations that they overlook one critical strategic priority: manufacturing succession planning. Without a clear […]

The First 90 Days: A Framework for Successfully Onboarding a New Plant Manager

Onboarding Success: The 30-60-90 Day Plant Manager Framework

Hiring a new Plant Manager is a critical decision—but ensuring their success begins after the hire. The first 90 days in this role can determine whether a new leader thrives or struggles. A Plant Manager must quickly get up to speed on operations, safety protocols, team dynamics, and performance expectations—while also earning the trust of […]

15 Behavioral Interview Questions to Ask Your Next Manufacturing Leader

Your Next Manufacturing Leader: Ask the Right Questions

Hiring the right manufacturing leader can directly impact your organization’s efficiency, safety, and bottom line. In such fast-paced, process-driven environments, technical expertise alone isn’t enough—successful leaders must also demonstrate strong decision-making, team management, and problem-solving skills under pressure. That’s where behavioral interview questions become a powerful tool. Rather than focusing on hypothetical scenarios, these questions […]

Why Your Next Best Hire Isn’t Looking: The Art of Passive Candidate Recruiting

Unlocking Hidden Talent: The Art of Passive Recruiting

In the fast-evolving world of manufacturing, finding top-tier talent is more challenging than ever. While job boards and online applications flood HR teams with active candidates, the real game-changers—the highly skilled, experienced professionals—often aren’t applying at all. These individuals are known as passive candidates: they’re not actively looking, but they are open to the right […]

Beyond Salary: 5 Ways to Attract Top-Tier Manufacturing Talent Today

Beyond Salary: Attracting Manufacturing's Top Talent

In today’s competitive hiring landscape, knowing how to attract manufacturing talent goes far beyond offering competitive salaries. With an evolving workforce, shifting generational expectations, and growing competition for skilled labor, manufacturers must adopt a more strategic approach to hiring. Simply put, top-tier talent is looking for more than a paycheck—they want purpose, flexibility, innovation, and […]

What Are Common Administrative Fees or Surcharges in Retained Search?

Administrative fees or surcharges are additional charges that some — but not all — retained executive search firms add on top of their standard professional service fee. These fees are intended to cover indirect operational costs associated with conducting a search, and they can vary significantly from one firm to another. For companies carefully reviewing […]