How Aventus secured a CEO to drive change and support sustainable growth in Abu Dhabi’s private sector.
The Challenge:
An independent public interest institution in Abu Dhabi dedicated to advancing the private sector and promoting sustainable economic growth faced a critical challenge. They were about to undertake a confidential and high-priority search for a UAE National CEO to lead the development and execution of a new company-wide strategy.
The requirements were complex. The ideal candidate needed to be a dynamic leader with a specialised skill set to drive rapid, large-scale organisational transformation. Identifying and securing a high-impact leader from a limited talent pool required precision, confidentiality, and a highly strategic approach.
The Solution:
To meet the challenge, Aventus employed our Retained Search methodology, a focused and collaborative method designed for high-priority executive roles. The team brought deep regional expertise and specialist resources to deliver results quickly and effectively.
Key elements of the approach included:
- Comprehensive Market Mapping: Using our extensive GCC network we were able to conduct an in-depth analysis that identified high-potential candidates, including those without an online presence.
- Rigorous Candidate Assessment: The team carried out a meticulous evaluation process, to ensure candidates matched the organisation’s needs, from strategic vision to leadership style.
- Clear, Consistent Communication: Weekly steering meetings and regular progress updates kept the process on track at every stage of the search.
- Discreet, Transparent Process: Throughout the search, we maintained strict confidentiality, while providing the client with visibility through detailed insights into the process and outcomes.
The strategy was designed not only to fill the immediate leadership need but also to identify future leaders, strengthening the institution’s executive pipeline.
The Outcome:
Aventus delivered results that exceeded expectations. Within three months, we successfully placed a UAE National CEO who delivered immediate value, driving meaningful change across the organisation.
Here’s what was achieved:
- Rapid Results: In addition to placing a new CEO with 3 months, we finalised the search for a CTO in 2 months, filling another vital leadership role in record time.
- Leadership Pipeline: During the search, we also identified several high-potential candidates for other key roles, giving the organisation a strong foundation for future success.
- Immediate Impact: The new CEO quickly implemented the new strategy, improving efficiency and aligning business units with their mission for sustainable growth.
Client Testimonial:
“I have collaborated with Aventus on several critical C-suite executive hires, and I can confidently say that the profiles they submit are of the highest quality. Aventus and their team have a natural understanding of our business needs and consistently find the most suitable candidates to drive change and make a significant impact. The team is diligent and thorough, yet agile and empathetic, which ensures a focused, efficient process that consistently delivers results.”
Supporting a transformational leadership journey that contributes to Abu Dhabi’s broader goals of economic diversification was both inspiring and rewarding. It reinforced our commitment at Aventus to connecting exceptional talent with opportunities that drive real change—not just for our clients, but for the entire region.
Partner with Aventus for tailored executive search solutions that deliver results. Contact us today to learn how we can support your leadership needs.