When recruiting multiple top-level leaders for the public sector in the large municipality of Huddinge with around 115,000 inhabitants, the search process and the extensive experience and insights of the public sector in Sweden was key.
An Unusual Beginning to a Strong Collaboration
Since 2017, Daniel Dronjak, a well-known local politician in the Stockholm area, and former political Head of Huddinge Municipality, has collaborated with Compass Human Resource Group and Senior Consultant Bo Bengtsson in recruiting top-level leaders as municipal directors, head of education, and other executive positions.
Here the search process has played a crucial role in broadening the candidate pool by identifying highly competent professionals from the private sector. “Bo Bengtsson successfully recruited top-level leaders, including a CEO and other key positions, which significantly benefited the public sector,” says Daniel Dronjak as he recalls how his collaboration with Bo had an unexpected start.
“My first interaction with Bo was when he called me for a reference check on one of my employees. Initially, I was annoyed at the prospect of losing a valuable leader, but I gave a good reference, and my employee got the job. However, when I later needed to recruit new executives for the public sector, I immediately thought of Bo and reached out to him for assistance.”
Executive Search as a crucial tool in Public Sector Recruitment in Sweden
Recruitment in the Swedish public sector operates under full transparency, meaning that all written information is accessible to journalists and the public. This makes confidentiality a key factor in protecting candidates’ current positions.
The executive search process plays a crucial role in identifying highly qualified candidates who might otherwise be hesitant to apply openly for a new position. By leveraging a structured search approach, Compass HRG can expand the candidate pool significantly, increasing the chances of a successful hire.
Understanding the Public Sector Landscape
Reflecting on Compass HRG’s ability to recruit for the public sector, Daniel Dronjak states: “Bo made a strong effort to understand what we really wanted – and needed. He asked detailed questions and spoke to stakeholders at different levels, including the political level, to ensure he fully understood our requirements. His experience and thorough approach have made Bo and Compass highly effective in recruiting some of our strongest leaders.”
So, although Compass HRG is a relatively small company in Sweden, the ability to navigate the public sector and political landscape has been proven through a highly personalized recruitment approach and numerous successful placements across the country.
Connections and knowledge of potential candidates were significant advantages.
Executive recruitment involves more than just reviewing résumés and conducting interviews. Compass HRG also utilizes cognitive and personality assessments, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of candidates. As Daniel Dronjak explains, “These tests are an essential part of the process, but they don’t provide the full picture. That’s why the search and screening process is just as important. Knowing that every aspect of the recruitment is carefully managed provides a great sense of security.”
Regarding his long-term collaboration with Compass HRG and Bo, Daniel Dronjak shares, “We have built a strong relationship and have consistently achieved successful recruitment outcomes.” He also highlights the personal aspect of their cooperation, adding, “Bo has an outstanding network within the public sector, which is crucial for us when recruiting new leaders. This network becomes even more valuable when Compass and Bo can also identify top candidates from the private sector.”
Another key aspect Daniel values is Bo’s ability to maintain a high level of communication and attention to detail throughout the recruitment process. “Whenever I meet with Bo, I always leave with a sense of being well-informed and up to date – not just about the candidates being searched, but also throughout the entire shortlist process. Bo is excellent at keeping all stakeholders informed and ensuring clear communication from start to finish.”
A Proven Track Record in Executive Search for the Public Sector in Sweden
Through strategic executive search, deep sector knowledge, and a commitment to excellence, Compass Human Resource Group and Bo Bengtsson have successfully helped the public sector in Sweden secure top leadership talent.
Our tailored approach, combined with a strong network and a thorough recruitment process, continues to make a significant impact in public sector hiring.
For organizations looking to strengthen their leadership teams, Compass HRG stands as a trusted and proven partner.
