Specialty Coatings & Chemicals Company - Business

Our client, AkzoNobel, is a global specialty coatings and chemicals company, operating in Southeast Asia to deliver innovative solutions across industrial and decorative segments. Their operations in Cambodia and Laos require strategic leadership to drive business development, manage dealer networks, and oversee project sales in a highly competitive market.

The Challenge

The client faced difficulty hiring a qualified Business Manager for Cambodia and Laos due to the specialized requirements of the role:

Strong business development capability in a niche market
Proven project sales expertise
Experience in dealer and distributor management
Limited availability of professionals in the region with this rare combination of skills

Finding a candidate who could deliver immediate impact in both markets was a significant challenge.

Our Approach

To address the complexity of the role, MyWorld:

Conducted a detailed consultation with the client to understand business expectations, market priorities, and leadership qualities required
Conducted a targeted executive search, leveraging industry networks and regional insights
Presented three highly relevant candidates who met the client’s technical and leadership criteria
Coordinated interviews and evaluations to streamline decision-making

Through this focused approach, the client was able to select the most suitable candidate efficiently.

The Result

3 candidates presented
1 candidate successfully hired
Placement completed within a short timeline
Candidate has been with the company for over one year, delivering strong performance and contributing to growth in Cambodia and Laos

Client Impact

The successful hire strengthened the client’s leadership capability in the region, ensuring business growth, stronger dealer management, and enhanced project sales execution. MyWorld’s targeted search and advisory approach demonstrated the ability to deliver high-quality, niche talent even in markets with limited candidate availability.