Case Study Snapshot
- Role: Development Manager
- Sector: Fresh Produce and Citrus Supply
- Market: South Africa
- Search Type: Speculative CV / Contingent Search
- Outcome: High-potential development leader appointed through proactive candidate introduction
Building Deeper Supplier Partnerships
Our client was focused on developing a more accurate understanding of supplier and customer motivations to support long-term sourcing and sales strategy. Rather than prioritising short-term volume growth, the business aimed to strengthen relationships across its South African citrus supply network.
To support this objective, the client required a Development Manager capable of expanding supplier partnerships, improving collaboration, and delivering market insight to guide future planning.
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A Relationship-Driven and Experience-Specific Brief
The successful candidate needed proven experience working directly with growers, strong partnership management capability, and deep knowledge of the South African citrus sector.
Cultural alignment was equally important. The client sought an individual capable of building trust within established supplier networks while adapting to the organisation’s international operating model.
This combination narrowed the available candidate pool and required a targeted search approach.
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Identifying High-Potential Talent Through Proactive Engagement
LCR adopted a broad search strategy, targeting sourcing and development professionals with strong citrus industry experience across South Africa.
During this process, we identified a high-potential candidate who had previously been interviewed and assessed internally. Based on his diverse background, industry relationships, and leadership capability, LCR presented his profile to the client on a speculative basis.
This proactive approach enabled the client to consider a strong candidate who was not actively seeking new opportunities but demonstrated clear alignment with the role.
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Delivering a Culturally Aligned Appointment
Throughout the process, LCR maintained open communication with both the client and the candidate. This ensured clarity around role expectations and supported the candidate through a significant career transition following 18 years with his previous employer.
After on-site meetings and in-depth discussions, the client confirmed that the candidate’s technical capability, relationship-building skills, and cultural fit aligned closely with their requirements. An offer was extended and accepted.
The appointment has strengthened the client’s ability to engage local growers and support European supply commitments.
