Chief Executive Officer

A Chief Executive Officer leads a manufacturing or industrial business and is accountable to the board or shareholders for its strategy, performance and culture. CEO appointments usually happen at a turning point: growth, turnaround, a change of ownership or a planned succession.

What the role involves

• Setting strategy with the board and turning it into a clear operating plan
• Full accountability for group profit and loss, cash and capital allocation
• Building and leading the executive team
• Major customers, funders, regulators and other stakeholders
• Safety, governance, transformation and company culture

What boards look for

A proven record of leading a business or division of similar scale and complexity, credible results through difficult conditions, strong board relationships, and relevant sector knowledge. Fit with the owners’ ambitions and the company’s culture matters as much as the CV.

How PMG runs CEO searches

CEO searches are confidential and fully headhunted. We agree a written brief with the board or shareholders, map leaders in comparable and adjacent industries, approach candidates discreetly, and carry out in-depth interviews and referencing before presenting a short, well-evidenced shortlist. No candidate is named to a client without their written consent.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a CEO search take?

Usually eight to twelve weeks to an offer, followed by the candidate’s notice period, which is often three months or more at this level.

Executive Search · Discuss a confidential appointment

Read more about how PMG recruits for this role on our CEO Recruitment South Africa page.

Role descriptions on this page are indicative and for general guidance only. Requirements and pay vary by employer and are not a guarantee of any offer.