Recruitment consultants
for consumer-/luxury-goods, fashion & retail

Executive Search Retail & Consumer Goods

Executives confronted by new levels of complexity

Today's end consumers are accessing information and communicating in new ways, while simultaneously using an increasing number of sales channels. This is resulting in a drastic change in buying behavior. Meanwhile, the industry is taking on a new form brought about by the ongoing sustainability trend as well as demographic change, which is bringing new target groups and their needs into focus.
The demands on managers in the consumer goods and fashion/luxury sectors are complex: decisions need to be made quickly, and the borders separating the on- and offline worlds have to be eliminated as much as possible. Responding to these demands requires a great deal of resilience, empathy, relationship management, risk competence and a visionary mindset to anticipate future trends. Our executive search consultants are passionate about and tasked with selecting and attracting the most suitable executives for you.

Sustainability remains a key trend

In the consumer goods industry, sustainability is and continues to be a central trend. Particularly in the food segment, but also in the fashion sector, consumers are making even more conscious decisions. It is likely that this trend will intensify.

From the perspective of the producer, the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the uncertainties associated with Brexit have brought supply chain security clearly into focus.

AI applications influence retail processes

In the fashion sector, the individualization trend continues. Personalized as well as data-based services are in growing demand. AI applications, therefore, have a well-timed offer to make. Artificial intelligence will, retail companies largely agree, have a significant impact on retail processes. Still complex Big Data projects must be accompanied, controlled and corrected by people – issues that successful leaders must keep in mind.

Digital channels are constantly growing. Bricks and mortar locations must therefore also offer real added value. They are becoming meeting points for an inspiring brand experience in which online and offline are increasingly merging (omnichannel). This requires new store concepts, product range expansion, and cross-sector collaboration.

Market dynamics make takeovers more likely

Sustainability and digitization are also making their mark on the luxury segment. The dynamics in the market make takeovers more likely. In the DACH region, the focus is currently on retaining and expanding local customers. At the same time, the focus is shifting abroad to China and the potential of strong upwardly mobile milieus.

While the economic growth of emerging markets presents opportunities, it also creates challenges, and the fluctuation in raw material prices is influencing costs and pricing.

Successfully selecting executive positions in the consumer goods environment

GET AHEAD Executive Search is your partner in the global competition for the most suitable executives in the consumer goods environment: with industry know-how, an excellent network and consulting expertise (evidence-based personnel diagnostics).