Operations - The backbone of Excellence

Operations is the unsung hero of business success.
As the backbone of supply chain and procurement, it's the engine that drives efficiency, productivity, and innovation. The market demands more than just logistics expertise; it requires strategic visionaries who can navigate complexity, mitigate risk, and unlock growth.

Operations Management: Navigating the Matrix of Success

Operations management plays a critical role in driving success and sustainability. As organisations navigate the matrix of success, they must respond to shifting market demands, embrace emerging trends, and cultivate exceptional leadership talent.

The matrix of success in operations is defined by five key market demands that organisations must address in order to thrive. Firstly, embracing agility is crucial in a rapidly changing landscape, where organisations must navigate with ease and precision. Secondly, digital transformation is essential, as organisations must harness data-driven decision-making to drive business excellence. Thirdly, sustainable practices are no longer a nice-to-have, but a must-have, as organisations must embed socially responsible and environmentally conscious practices into the fabric of their operations. Fourthly, resilience and risk management are critical, as organisations must build robust frameworks to mitigate risks and ensure continuity. Lastly, a global perspective is vital, as organisations must cultivate cultural intelligence and an international mindset to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world.

As we look to the future, the following five key trends will shape the operations landscape:

  • Circular economies will become increasingly important, as organisations embrace sustainable and regenerative practices to reduce waste and drive growth.

  • The tech revolution will continue transforming operations, as organisations leverage AI, blockchain, and robotics to unlock new efficiencies.

  • ESG considerations will become more embedded in operations, as organisations integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance considerations into the heart of their business.

  • Evolving trade policies will require organisations to navigate the complexities of geopolitical dynamics and trade policies.

  • Talent scarcity will become a growing concern, as organisations must upskill and reskill to address the ever-increasing talent gap.

To succeed in this dynamic environment, operations leaders must embody the following six essential requirements:

  • Strategic thinking: navigating complex challenges with clarity and purpose

  • Collaborative leadership: building strong relationships and influencing stakeholders

  • Data analysis: uncovering insights and telling compelling stories

  • Cultural awareness: embracing empathy and understanding in a globalised world

  • Adaptability: continuously learning and evolving to stay ahead

  • Digital literacy: Harnessing technology to drive innovation and growth

Our seasoned consultants are passionate about uncovering and nurturing exceptional leadership talent, capable of propelling organisations towards sustained success and excellence. We intimately understand the intricate nuances of the operations landscape and the imperative for organisations to cultivate visionary leaders who can navigate complexity, drive innovation, and foster a culture of sustainability.

  • Kira Westermann
    Germany

    Kira Westermann is a Principal at Selion Global Germany and a Principal in the Executive Search and Management Assessment division at Board Connect GmbH in Berlin. She commenced her career at Heidrick & Struggles, a renowned international executive search firm, where she successfully managed numerous national and international projects, focusing on key positions in the Global Technology Practice. Following her consulting tenure, Kira transitioned to sales roles at a prominent German consumer goods company, leveraging her expertise to drive business growth. Kira holds a prestigious "Double Degree" (Master of Science in Management & Grade de Master Programme Grande École) from ESCP Europe Business School and is fluent in German, English, and Spanish. Her industry expertise spans Consumer Goods, Retail & E-commerce, and Digital, with a focus on placing Marketing, Sales & Strategy Officers, Sales & Marketing Leaders, Procurement & Supply Chain Leaders, and Chief Executive Officers.

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  • Petra Pavlik
    Germany

    Petra Pavlik, an Associate Partner at Selion Global Germany and a Senior Client Partner at Board Connect GmbH, has established herself as a trusted project partner, delivering executive search excellence for over 20 years. Her expertise lies in placing high-calibre professionals in management and specialised roles within the insurance industry and recruiting lawyers, non-legal executives, and senior experts for national and international law firms and tax consulting companies.

    With a unique understanding of her clients' needs, stemming from her background in insurance sales and economics, Petra ensures that her clients feel understood and receive the best service. She leverages her extensive experience to identify and recruit top executives, managers, and senior-level experts, fostering long-term relationships with her clients.

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  • Ravindra Bhide
    India

    Ravindra Bhide is the Managing Partner and Country Manager of Selion Global India. With decades of professional experience, Ravindra brings a wealth of expertise to his role, having worked with top-tier clients across the automotive, process industry, and chemicals sectors.

    Ravindra's career has been marked by senior leadership roles in prominent global organisations, including Korn Ferry International, where he served as a Senior Partner and developed his expertise in leadership search and talent management. His extensive experience working in Europe, including a decade in Switzerland with Ciba Specialty Chemicals (Headquarters), has given him a unique global perspective that he brings to every project.

    Throughout his career, Ravindra has demonstrated a proven track record in leading global search assignments and consulting projects for top-tier clients. His expertise spans executive search and leadership assessment, coaching and mentoring, talent management and development, and change management and ERP implementation support.

    As Managing Partner and Country Manager of Selion Global India, Ravindra spearheads the firm's presence in India, bringing his expertise and network to bear in supporting clients in the region and beyond. He is passionate about teaching, coaching, and development and maintains strong connections with his alma mater and various business schools.

    Ravindra's academic background includes a Bachelor's in Commerce/Accounting and a Master's in Management Studies (Finance) from SPJIMR, University of Mumbai. He is also a Fellow of India's Institute of Cost and Management Accountants. 

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  • Markus Gfeller
    Japan

    Markus Gfeller is Associate Partner and Country Manager of Selion Global Japan and the Managing Partner of G&S Japan K.K., a leading corporate consulting and retained executive search firm dedicated to supporting European businesses in Japan.

    As a seasoned executive with over 27 years of experience in Japan, Markus has built a distinguished career in international corporate finance, change management, and executive search. His expertise spans from his early days in banking with Credit Suisse to his tenure with BayernLB, where he honed his skills in international corporate finance with a strong focus on Asia.

    Markus's passion for Japan has led him to become fluent in Japanese, enabling him to navigate the complex business landscape with ease. He has taken on various leadership roles, including Managing Director and President positions at HARTING and KABA, where he drove change management initiatives. In 2009, he joined G&S Japan K.K. as Senior Partner and later became the Managing Partner, leading the firm's expansion and growth in Japan.

    Under his leadership, G&S Japan K.K. has become a trusted partner to multinational corporations, providing expert guidance in executive search, market entry, expansion, and change management. Markus's extensive network, cultural understanding, and business acumen make him a highly respected advisor to companies navigating the complex Japanese market.

    Professional Associations:

    • Member of German Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan (GCCIJ), Tokyo

    • Member of Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan (SCCIJ), Tokyo

    • Member of Italian Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ICCJ), Tokyo

    • Member of Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan (CCCJ), Tokyo

    • Member of the Foreign Correspondent’s Club of Japan (FCCJ), Tokyo

    • Member of the Tokyo American Club (TAC), Tokyo

    Others:

    • Former Vice President of the Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan

    • President of the Section of Education of the Swiss Club Tokyo

     

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  • Filip Nemteanu
    Romania

    Filip Nemteanu is a Managing Partner and Country Manager of Selion Global Romania, a distinguished executive search professional with a remarkable career spanning over 14 years, leveraging his expertise to deliver exceptional results for clients. With a proven track record of over 500 successful searches, Filip has established himself as a trusted advisor in the industry.

    Filip's extensive experience spans a broad range of sectors, including Digital and Tech, Entertainment and Media, Energy, Industrial, and Public Sector. His passion for innovation and growth has driven him to excel in these dynamic industries, fostering a deep understanding of the complexities and challenges that shape them.

    Before joining Selion Global, Filip co-founded the leadership advisory firm Resolute Advisory Romania and held senior roles at Amrop Romania and TRANSEARCH International Romania, providing strategic guidance on talent acquisition and leadership development to top-tier organisations.

    Filip's academic background includes a Master's degree in Marketing from the Academy of Economic Studies in Bucharest and a Fast Track Management Program at the Bucharest International School of Management (BISM). His commitment to continuous learning and self-improvement is a hallmark of his professional approach.

    With an unwavering dedication to quality and ethics, Filip has built a reputation for trustworthiness and discretion. His optimism and strong moral compass guide his approach to executive search, ensuring long-term relationships and exceptional results.

    Beyond his professional pursuits, Filip is an avid learner, drawn to the fields of history, geopolitics, and natural sciences. His passion for understanding the world's intricacies is matched only by his enthusiasm for sports, having transitioned from professional swimming to water polo.

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  • Thomas W. Hofer
    South East Asia / Singapore / China

    Thomas Hofer is a Founder and Global Managing Partner of Selion Global, a globally renowned professional services firm in leadership consulting, board advisory and executive search. With decades of extensive experience at the board and senior management levels, Thomas brings a high-level insider perspective to his work. He is highly accomplished in executive search, board consulting, succession planning, and strategic executive talent advisory.

    Thomas has established a reputation for partnering with clients with integrity, agility, discretion, and dedication, fostering enduring relationships with senior management executives and industry insiders worldwide. With a broad span of experience across multiple industries, he is committed to advising clients on informed leadership choices, empowering talented professionals to assume pivotal roles, and guiding them toward insightful decisions that drive success.

    As a former Commanding Officer of a regiment, Thomas brings extensive leadership and management experience, having led four battalions and 2,500 military personnel. He also has a lifelong interest in sports, having voluntarily served as Team Manager of the Swiss National Elite Rowing Team and participated in the World Cup and World Championships during two Olympic Cycles.

    Thomas is passionate about giving back to the community, having served as the Chair of a charity supporting families and children in underprivileged areas and as a Board Member of a Swiss-Indian foundation building schools for slum children. He is a Freeman of the City of London and enjoys visiting his favourite city often.

    As a seasoned professional, Thomas believes in supporting tomorrow's leaders through pro bono mentoring and sharing his expertise. He embraces a philosophy of continuous growth, seeking answers, and unlocking potential. This approach underpins his commitment to delivering exceptional results and making a positive impact in the world of leadership consulting and executive search.

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