Power in Growth: Boyden's Strategic COO Recruitment for a Leading Agro-Industry Giant

The Client

Our client is a leading developer and marketer of food, agricultural, and energy products, with a strong commitment to business sustainability and social and environmental development. As the largest sugar producer in Central America and the second largest in Latin America, they boast the world's largest refinery attached to a sugar mill. Additionally, they are the country's third-largest electric power generator and a major international producer of alcohol. Their innovative approach and dedication to sustainability have set them apart in the industry.

The Challenge

Boyden was engaged to identify a dynamic COO capable of managing significant change and introducing more efficient operating procedures. This was a critical task as the company's growth trajectory was poised to pivot, focusing on both organic growth and strategic acquisitions. The new COO needed to drive this transformation while maintaining the company's high standards of efficiency and sustainability.

The Solution

We developed a detailed executive brief to ensure pinpoint accuracy in securing candidates with the requisite skills and vision to transform operations. Boyden's recruitment strategy involved identifying agricultural companies outside direct competition but within related sectors of the agricultural and food business. These companies were noted for their high operational efficiencies, providing a rich pool of potential candidates with the desired expertise and innovative mindset.

The Results

In collaboration with the CHRO and CEO, we curated a shortlist of eight exceptional candidates, from which three were selected for presentation to the board. The chosen candidate stood out due to his extensive background in the agro-industry in Latin America, his adeptness in navigating operational and legal challenges, and his proven effectiveness in integrations. His ability to work and live in rural areas, coupled with his experience in managing onsite agricultural facilities, was highly valued. While fluency in Spanish was essential, his additional fluency in English and Portuguese provided a significant strategic advantage.