Interview Success: Executives vs. Managers
Interviewing for a management role is fundamentally different from the process of selecting a top executive. Dean Bagnall, North America Director for Lean Six Search, covers this topic and shares his insights. “While both positions are vital, the expectations, evaluation criteria, and interview dynamics diverge significantly”.
Bagnall shares key Differences in the interview approach
Nature of the Conversation:
Managers face structured, chronological interviews focused on competency and team management.
Executives participate in peer-level discussions, emphasizing strategic impact and cultural alignment.
Focus of Questions:
For managers, interviews center on the “how”. How they manage teams, execute tasks, and drive day-to-day results.
For executives, the focus shifts to the “why”. Why they make certain decisions, the strategic outcomes they’ve delivered, and their vision for organizational growth.
Ownership and Impact:
Managers are expected to highlight team achievements and operational efficiency.
Executives must demonstrate ownership of company-wide results, articulating how they’ve transformed businesses and driven high-level strategy.
what companies look for in each profile
Managers:
Ability to keep operations running smoothly.
Competency in team leadership and progression planning.
Fit with immediate supervisors and direct teams.
Executives:
Capacity to shape and breed company culture.
Strategic thinking and ability to influence at the highest levels.
Compatibility with the entire leadership team, often requiring multiple interviews with various stakeholders.
Assessing Culture Fit and Leadership Style
For executive candidates, cultural fit is paramount. Bagnall explains that executives typically meet with several members of the leadership team to ensure alignment not just in skills, but in values and leadership style. The process is more collaborative, with both sides evaluating whether the partnership will foster long-term success.
Engaging with Executive Search Consultants: Key Questions to Ask
Whether you are pursuing a management or executive position, partnering with a headhunter is a strategic decision that requires careful consideration. To ensure you make the most of this collaboration, here are the key questions you should keep in mind when evaluating a potential consultant.
Do you work on retained or contingent searches?
Can you provide examples of similar leaders and roles you’ve placed?
What is your niche and specialty within the market?
What does the typical process look like from here?
These questions help candidates assess the consultant’s expertise, network, and approach, ensuring a productive collaboration.
Building a True Partnership
Bagnall emphasizes that successful executive placements rely on genuine relationships between candidates and consultants. Rather than a transactional process, it should feel like a partnership, one built on trust, communication, and mutual understanding of goals and values.
The Power of Strategic Alignment
Whether you are a candidate or a hiring organization, understanding the nuances between executive and manager interviews can make all the difference. As Dean Bagnall advises, approaching each step with clarity, confidence, and curiosity ensures not only a great hire but a lasting, impactful partnership. At Lean Six Search, the focus remains on aligning exceptional leaders with organizations ready to thrive.
About Dean Bagnall (Director North America):
Dean has 12 years of global recruitment experience within the FMCG and Life Science sectors. He is the Director for North America at Lean Six Search.
An expert in supply chain, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Operations senior leadership recruitment, he prides himself on making genuine connections with both candidates and clients. He is a true partner in every sense and thrives on placing professionals in roles that enhance their careers and lives.
Need help finding Executive Supply Chain talent?
Our expertise lies in identifying leaders who combine technical excellence with the professional skills required to thrive in today’s world.
