ECOLAB, a global leader in water, hygiene, and energy technologies, required an Interim HR Business Partner with in-depth knowledge of the Swedish and/or Finnish labor market. The focus was on professionalizing and further developing the HR function within the Nordic region. Experience and strong HR skills were crucial, while the nationality of the candidate was of secondary importance.

Situation

Due to organizational changes, an urgent need arose to strengthen the HR team. The interim manager needed to make an immediate impact on HR processes, including employee relations, performance management, and talent development.

Challenges

• Finding an experienced HR professional with deep knowledge of the Nordic labor market in a short time frame
• Improving and standardizing HR policies and procedures
• Supporting HR processes such as performance management and talent development
• Ensuring flexibility in the interim assignment with a potential transition to a permanent position

Action

ECOLAB engaged Nextt Management due to their extensive network of experienced interim managers. Within a few days, Nextt presented three suitable candidates with relevant experience and proven results.

The selected interim manager started in December with an initial four-month contract. The match quickly proved to be excellent, leading to a two-month extension. Ultimately, ECOLAB decided to convert the role into a permanent position. Although an executive search was conducted to evaluate other candidates, the interim manager remained the best fit for the job.

Thanks to the interim manager’s experience, ECOLAB was able to quickly strengthen HR structures within the Nordic region. Collaboration with internal and external stakeholders went smoothly, and improvements in HR processes were successfully implemented.

Results

The interim manager served in the role for four months full-time, followed by a two-month extension. Ultimately, they were offered a permanent position within the Nordic HR organization. The project was successfully completed with concrete improvements in HR processes, policies, and talent development.