The Client:
A controlled environment agriculture company specialising in premium greenhouse-grown produce. As part of its international growth strategy, the business invested in the development of a large-scale greenhouse facility in the United States, designed to support expansion into the North American market.
The Challenge:
With a significant infrastructure investment underway, the company required a senior Strategic Advisor to support governance, strategic oversight, and market positioning during a critical phase of expansion. The role demanded deep experience in greenhouse operations, commercial agriculture, and international market development. In addition to sector expertise, the client sought an individual capable of guiding executive decision-making and strengthening credibility with investors and partners.
The Solution:
Gillespie Manners conducted targeted research across the global controlled environment agriculture and horticulture sectors, identifying senior leaders with experience scaling greenhouse operations and advising high-growth agri-tech businesses. Through discreet outreach and close collaboration with the client’s leadership team, the search focused on individuals with strong advisory credentials, board-level exposure, and a proven track record supporting international agricultural expansion.
The Outcome:
A highly experienced Strategic Advisor was appointed to provide guidance during the launch of the client’s new U.S. greenhouse facility. The appointment strengthened the company’s leadership and advisory capability at a pivotal moment in its growth, ensuring experienced oversight as operations scaled and the business established its presence in the North American market.