Case study: Enabling global workplace leadership for a world‑leading semiconductor organisation

Hays partnered with a global semiconductor leader to appoint a senior workplace executive capable of navigating international complexity, cultural variation and stakeholder demands at scale.
 

Overview 

As the world’s leading semiconductor IP company, this technology innovator powers solutions that reach 70% of the global population. With more than 6,000 employees representing 61 nationalities, the organisation identified a critical need for an experienced Global Workplace Leader to oversee workplace and facilities management across major hubs worldwide.

Challenge 

The executive search brief was highly specialised, demanding a leader who could balance technical expertise and subject knowledge with advanced communication and managerial skills on the global stage.
 

Non-negotiables for the role included a leader who could navigate the following:

• Global complexity: 
  Candidates needed experience managing international teams with hybrid working patterns while balancing collaboration and business needs.

• Cultural and regional variation: 
  Workplace design and facilities requirements differed by country, so shortlisted candidates had to demonstrate expertise in adapting strategies across geographies.

• Stakeholder engagement: 
  The role required a proven ability to work with senior international stakeholders and suppliers, alongside a deep understanding of the workforce dynamics within a technology organisation.

Solution

Our Executive team conducted a comprehensive market mapping exercise, targeting director-level and above professionals in workplace and facilities management. We focused on sectors aligned with the client’s portfolio – such as technology, data centres, pharmaceuticals, and innovation – to deliver a leader who could make an impact from day one.

To meet tight timelines, we combined targeted advertising with proactive executive search services, creating early momentum and engaging high-calibre individuals at pace. This approach included sharing the organisation’s recent milestones and future aspirations to position the role as a compelling career opportunity, attracting ambitious leaders committed to steering change.

Outcome 

The campaign generated 20 qualified applications, including seven ‘A-grade candidates’ and a diverse shortlist drawn from multiple sectors.

The client conducted five shortlist interviews with presentations to the Chief People Officer and senior global representatives.

The process concluded with the successful appointment and onboarding of an executive leader equipped to:

• Drive innovation across workplace and facilities strategy
• Deliver consistency while respecting regional differences
• Support the organisation’s continued growth at global scale

Ready to lead at a global scale?

Speak to our executive search specialists to access senior leaders with the experience to manage international complexity, align workplace strategy across regions, and support growth in global organisations.
 

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