Finding the perfect successor for a Hong Kong restaurant leader

Discreet search to secure CEO with local restaurant knowledge

Our client, a prominent restaurant group based in Hong Kong and backed by private equity, faced a critical transition during the Covid-19 pandemic. Amidst a phase of rapid expansion, the company’s long-standing founder made the strategic decision to step back, remaining in a board capacity while actively seeking a successor.

Given the tightly interconnected nature of Hong Kong’s food and beverage market, we faced the challenge of discreetly managing this transition to avoid disrupting team dynamics or prematurely disclosing the founder’s plans. The client sought a successor deeply familiar with the Hong Kong restaurant landscape, but preferred someone not currently based in the city.

Leveraging our deep understanding of the food and beverage industry, we launched a comprehensive global search for a suitable successor. Understanding the local nuances and the necessity for cultural alignment, we conducted a meticulous search that was both expansive in reach and sensitive to the intricacies of Hong Kong’s culinary scene. Despite Covid-19 travel restrictions preventing physical interviews, we utilised virtual platforms to conduct thorough assessments and interviews with both our client and prospective candidates.

One standout candidate emerged—a European professional with over 20 years of experience in the Hong Kong restaurant industry. This candidate, based in Europe, had deep industry expertise and a strong desire to return to Hong Kong, where their family roots remained. We facilitated multiple virtual interactions and tours of our clients restaurant spaces, providing the candidate with an immersive experience to grasp the brand’s essence and cultural ethos.

Ultimately, the candidate accepted the role, enabled by special permissions to travel during Covid-19 restrictions. Their deep understanding of both European and Hong Kong cultures, coupled with extensive industry knowledge, positioned them as an ideal successor to lead our client into its next phase of growth.

The seamless transition ensured continuity in leadership while preserving brand identity within the competitive Hong Kong food and beverage market. Our strategic approach not only met the client’s immediate needs but also laid a robust foundation for continued success and expansion.

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