Group Head of IT
The Role:
AB Dynamics
The Client:
AB Dynamics Group is a global leader in providing testing and verification solutions for the transport market. They enable the development of safer, more efficient, and more sustainable vehicles.
Comprising multiple businesses, the Group addresses a wide array of testing and development needs, including simulation, active safety, durability, steering, suspension, and autonomous driving. Their core mission is to enhance road safety and vehicle automation while simultaneously helping their customers accelerate towards net-zero emissions. They achieve this through a commitment to leadership and innovation in engineering and technology.
They needed a Group Head of IT who could ensure their IT infrastructure, applications, and services met current business needs while also driving digital transformation, innovation, and efficiency. Recognising the importance of this appointment, they turned to Moon Executive Search, confident in our MET Practice's proven success in placing senior-level leaders within the tech and engineering sectors. This initial collaboration with AB Dynamics was an exciting opportunity for us to delve into their operations and identify candidates capable of driving their continued success.
The campaign's primary challenge was securing a leader who could seamlessly blend technical expertise with strategic vision. Global IT management experience was essential due to the company’s multinational footprint, along with strong stakeholder engagement skills, and the ability to lead high-performing teams in a fast-evolving digital landscape. The successful candidate would shape the company’s technological future, maintaining efficiency and security across cloud migration, AI integration, and automation. Beyond technical ability, cultural fit was key – the successful candidate needed to embody collaboration, diversity, and innovation to thrive within AB Dynamics' ambitious environment.
Gemma Wilks, Head of our MET Practice, coordinated the campaign, employing both headhunting and targeted advertising. The search process revealed many talented candidates. Through a meticulous interview and selection process, we refined this list to the individuals who possessed the requisite skills and experience, and demonstrated a strong cultural fit for AB Dynamics. Our comprehensive candidate reports detailed each individual's strengths, areas for development, and potential contributions to AB Dynamics' long-term objectives. We’re thrilled that AB Dynamics ultimately appointed our recommended candidate, Richard Dawson.
Mr Dawson is a seasoned IT leader known for merging technical prowess with strategic foresight to drive significant change. With over 27 years of industry experience, he has consistently led high-performing teams, fortified cybersecurity frameworks, and delivered multi-region IT solutions that ensure seamless business operations. His hands-on expertise spans ERP systems, cloud migrations, and modern workplace transformations, equipping him to tackle complex challenges. Furthermore, Mr Dawson excels at collaboration and problem-solving, adept at translating business needs into practical IT solutions. He values strong stakeholder relationships and has a proven track record of implementing cost-effective, innovative strategies that balance security, efficiency, and scalability.
Matthew Price, Group Corporate Development Director, commented:
“Gemma was dedicated to finding us the right candidate. She communicated with us at every stage, making the process fully transparent. We look forward to working with her again and hope to form a long-term partnership”.
Gemma Wilks commented:
“Learning more about AB Dynamics, their organisational culture and their operations was a great experience. This insight was key to finding candidates who aligned with their values and also had the skills and experience to drive organisational objectives.”
Seeking talented mid-to-senior management? Contact our MET Practice to learn how we can help.
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