The Challenge

The client was seeking a seasoned General Manager to spearhead their APAC expansion, focusing initially on Australia. This role demanded someone who could be a one-man-show, being the first person on the ground, hands-on, and directly responsible for building the company's presence in the territory while reporting to the Israel-based CEO. Additionally, the candidate needed to have the capability to grow their team as the business expanded. There was a particular emphasis on developing strong channel and partnership strategies, requiring a candidate capable of creating and nurturing these critical connections within the industry. The role required a strategic leader with a proven track record in scaling SaaS businesses, a deep understanding of the APAC market dynamics, and the ability to operate effectively in a startup environment. It was critical to find someone with a strong commercial background, an entrepreneurial mindset, and the adaptability to create a foothold in an emerging market with little existing infrastructure.

The Solution

Using CQ Global's Precision Placement methodology, we conducted an in-depth analysis of the client’s goals, market needs, and company culture. We identified key candidate traits, including hands-on leadership, strategic thinking, and experience in building a business presence from scratch within APAC.

Our Tailored Search Strategy targeted accomplished SaaS leaders with experience leading regional expansions in APAC. Utilizing our Cultural DNA Matching approach, we ensured that the candidates not only met the business requirements but also embraced the agile, dynamic nature of an Israeli startup in hyper-growth mode.

Key Steps

• We worked closely with the client to fully grasp their growth ambitions and market challenges, aligning our search approach with their strategic direction.

• Our focused search strategy targeted passive talent with deep industry knowledge, a history of successful regional expansion, and the capacity to navigate the unique business landscape of APAC.

• Through comprehensive interviews and rigorous assessments, we shortlisted candidates who were both technically qualified and culturally aligned with the company’s startup ethos and growth needs.

The Results

• The General Manager rapidly established a presence in the Australian market, laying the groundwork for broader APAC expansion.

• Leveraging local expertise, the new General Manager built critical partnerships and developed channel strategies that accelerated market entry and supported business growth.

• The General Manager integrated seamlessly into the startup culture, driving strategic initiatives that aligned with the company’s ambitious expansion goals.

Conclusion

CQ Global successfully placed a General Manager who embodied the entrepreneurial spirit needed to drive the client's growth in APAC. This case study underscores our commitment to delivering high-impact talent solutions that align with the specific business needs and cultural requirements of our clients.