THE CLIENT
Hikma develops, manufactures and markets a broad range of branded and non-branded generic pharmaceutical products across the United States (US), the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and Europe. Their operations span more than 50 countries and are conducted through three business segments.
THE CHALLENGE
Following the acquisition of West Ward Pharmaceuticals a strong finance team were needed to assimilate their accounts into the Hikma group as well as ensuring that their performance remained high; whilst a Financial Controller, Sean Mynott, was appointed the workload was too much and he was having to work very long hours to ensure that the day-to-day finance function worked well and commercial work was done. Sean had not recruited for Hikma previously but Pro-Recruitment had assisted with their tax needs before and he wanted someone known to the business who was comfortable with the organisation. There was also no UK HR Manager at the time of hiring this position which added to the difficulty. Sean had worked with other agencies previously and wanted a finance-specialist as this role was a technical accounting role.
OUR SOLUTION
Pro-Finance met face to face with Hikma prior to the start of the recruitment process to ensure the best possible understanding of the role, the interpersonal skills required and the future plans for the business and progression for future candidates. We advised Sean that for his requirements the best role to hire would be a Financial Reporting Manager to take over the day-to-day running of the function for him. Pro-Finance managed the entire process, pre-screening and conducting face-to-face interviews including competency based interviews, keeping both sides informed at all times.
THE RESULT
Within three working days of taking the brief Pro-Finance put seven candidates forward to Hikma, all of whom had been met and referenced. Five of the seven were taken forward for first stage interview and we organised diaries for all of the candidates. We then arranged three-second stage interviews including an HR stage with the international HR Manager and a Skype interview with the US office. Unfortunately, one candidate found another job during the process but two strong interviewees remained and Hikma felt comfortable that they would be happy with either candidate. They made an offer quickly and acceptance and paperwork were returned on the same day.
FOLLOW UP
Three months on and the successful candidate, Stephen, has now started his new role at Hikma. Long notice periods can be difficult for all involved and we have remained in contact with Hikma and Stephen to ensure that both are happy. We will continue to do so and are in the process of arranging a celebratory lunch with Sean.