Conducting an Executive Search for a Director of Corporate Services to Lead Strategic and Operational Change in a Public Sector Agency
The Brief
In early 2020, Future Leadership™ partnered with a prominent public sector integrity agency to appoint a Director of Corporate Services. With the organisation undergoing an extensive review and change initiative, this role was deemed critical to fostering contemporary people leadership, internal coherence, and accountability.
Reporting directly to the CEO, the Director of Corporate Services would oversee corporate and strategic functions, engaging closely with other regulatory bodies and key departments, including the Department of Premier and Cabinet and the Department of Treasury and Finance. Future Leadership™ was tasked with identifying a candidate who could bring authoritative leadership, challenge executive perspectives constructively, and provide strategic oversight within a complex public sector environment.
Candidate net Promote Score
Future Leadership combines truly personalised relationships with innovative technology solutions to ensure an approachable and efficient process for all our Net Promoter Score across clients, successful candidates and unsuccessful candidates is well above industry standard.
Candidates supported every year
We maintain genuine relationships with past candidates and continue to support them with leadership solutions long term, after they land their role.
Senior Women Appointed since 2002
Over half of the executive search assignments undertaken by our team have resulted in the appointment of outstanding female or LGBTQI+ leaders to high profile roles.
Candidate Retention Rate for 12 months since 2002
Our thorough briefing process and ability to engage passive candidates mean that we go to great lengths to find the right person for the role – long term!
The Process
Future Leadership™ conducted a thorough briefing with the organisation’s CEO and HR Manager to define the specific needs of the role. The search strategy included:
- Targeted Public Sector Search: Focusing on proven leaders with deep expertise in finance, risk, and governance across the public sector, especially those with experience handling sensitive government contexts.
- Comprehensive Candidate Sourcing: From 155 formal expressions of interest, Future Leadership™ shortlisted six highly qualified candidates, each assessed on their capacity for strategic leadership, change management, and stakeholder engagement.
- Panel Review and Interviews: The selection panel engaged in a two-stage interview process to evaluate candidates’ alignment with the organisation’s mission and their ability to bring constructive, authoritative insights.
Through this rigorous process, Future Leadership™ identified an ideal candidate capable of leading the organisation through its strategic transformation.
Emerging Capabilities
Corporate Services
Proficient in overseeing corporate functions, including finance, HR, IT, and risk management, to support organisational efficiency and strategic goals
Business Services
Skilled in managing business operations and administrative support functions to enhance productivity and streamline processes
Corporate Recovery
Experienced in corporate recovery practices to stabilise operations, manage risks, and improve financial health during challenging periods
Professional Cleaning
Knowledgeable in maintaining high standards of hygiene and cleanliness, ensuring a safe and compliant workplace environment
Janitorial Services
Expertise in managing janitorial operations, supporting facility maintenance and contributing to organisational health and safety standards
The Outcome
The successful candidate, appointed in June 2020, brought extensive experience in government and consulting, equipping them with a thorough understanding of public sector challenges and stakeholder dynamics. Key achievements included:
- Strategic Change Leadership: Provided critical insights and leadership during a period of organisational review, fostering a culture of accountability and coherence.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Developed and maintained strong relationships with regulatory agencies and government departments, ensuring effective communication and alignment.
- Operational and People Leadership: Promoted contemporary people management practices, aligning team functions with the organisation’s long-term objectives.
Feedback from the CEO highlighted the Director’s positive impact in driving both strategic and operational excellence, underscoring Future Leadership’s success in matching the role’s requirements.
