The Brief

An American Healthcare company - the largest pure-play, publicly traded provider - mandated Marlin Hawk to find a Chief Information Officer. The right candidate would need to have the growth experience and skills to build a technology roadmap while inheriting a legacy team with antiquated systems. Reporting directly into the CEO, this role was key to leading the company’s transformation journey.

The Approach

Marlin Hawk initially sought out best-in-class divisional and group technology officers at leading Healthcare Payers and Providers, in addition to candidates at broader Financial Services companies. This strategy evolved to include executive-level talent at major Retail organizations with an expanding physical footprint and a focus on the customer experience. Ultimately, the most relevant candidates came out of Healthcare Payer organizations; technologists with an impressive track record leading transformational initiatives who had overseen the implementation of advanced technology systems.

The Result

Response rates throughout the search were positive; many experienced CIOs were excited at the opportunity to make an impact on the behavioral health industry. Despite this interest, many candidates were unable to relocate to the headquartered location. Additionally, many qualified candidates were already generously compensated and leading large teams, which made them unlikely to accept a role in smaller scope. Ultimately, our placement - a global IT and business executive with over 25 years of experience driving digital transformation - was hired from a major healthcare technology organisation, where they had served as CIO for all twenty business units and functions.