My story
An early career in the advertising business, much of it working with Industrial sector clients in the UK, Europe and Asia Pacific, led to a switch to executive search fifteen years ago. Since then I have been a Partner in firms ranging from small specialist boutiques to the largest of the major global networks.
Throughout that time I have always been guided by one simple principle: that every client and every candidate is a valued individual and your ability to deliver success is a function of the time you invest in those relationships.
I worked with Chris and his team when they were searching for a new Chair for Marshalls plc. I have rarely been interviewed so well or had such a good experience during a recruitment process. I cannot recommend them highly enough.
– Vanda Murray, Non-Executive Chair, Marshalls plc
My focus
As Head of the Industrial Practice at Savannah I am responsible for building and nurturing our relationships with clients across the sector, from extractives, oil and gas and utilities to infrastructure, transportation and manufacturing. My own sector focus covers automotive and mobility, aerospace and defence, transportation and infrastructure.
At a time when disruptive new technologies and changing business models are transforming every element of the industrial value chain, now, more than ever, our clients are looking for us to help them navigate these challenges from a leadership perspective.
Chris’s ability to lead the definition of a great brief, leverage his vast contacts, and drive a lateral thought and research process across industries, is amongst the best I have encountered, and it sets him apart.
– Adrian Hallmark, Chairman & CEO, Bentley Motors
My motivation
More than anything I enjoy the intellectual stimulation of working together with highly experienced and knowledgeable partners who share the same commitment to delivering exceptional results for our clients. Consequently, I absolutely believe that for those clients Savannah represents the best of both worlds – the knowledge and reach of a global network combined with the partner focus and agility of a boutique.
Why I like working at Savannah
Working with bright, energetic people who take their work seriously, not themselves. A healthy, collaborative environment that rewards teamwork and going above and beyond for our clients.
I have worked with Chris Donkin and his teams as a client on numerous executive searches over a long period of time. It is testament to his ability and knowledge that I have continued to engage Chris over the years as I have moved to board positions within three different companies.
– Phil Popham, Chief Executive Officer, Lotus Cars