Search Partners
Executive Search Based in Melbourne
With a head office in Melbourne and clients across every state, we provide structured recruitment solutions tailored to critical industries, helping businesses secure skilled professionals through transparent, outcome-focused processes.
ETHICAL HIRING
National Executive Search Specialists in Operational Technology & Industrial Automation
Search Partners is one of Australia’s only executive search firms dedicated to Operational Technology (OT), Industrial Automation, and Digital Transformation. With over 20 years of industry experience and more than 250 successful placements, we provide clients with senior leaders and executives who can deliver outcomes in complex, highly regulated, and safety-critical environments.
Why Executive Search Matters in OT & Automation
The convergence of IT and OT demands leaders who understand both domains — from cyber security and data systems to physical assets and control environments. Traditional executive recruiters often lack this depth. Search Partners specialises in sourcing executives with the technical and strategic insight needed to manage this convergence, ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient operations.
Our Process
Our retained search model is research-led and outcome-focused. Clients engage upfront, and within 4–6 weeks, we deliver a shortlist backed by documentation and recommendations. Our process includes:
- Market mapping across local and global networks
- Targeted outreach and strategic headhunting
- Structured interviews and technical assessment
- Cultural alignment and diversity considerations
- Final findings and recommendations report
Sectors We Support
- Infrastructure & Utilities
- Energy & Renewables
- Water & Wastewater
- Industrial Manufacturing
- Mining & Resources
- Data Centres & Critical Automation Environments
Roles We Place
- C-Suite and Board Appointments
- Executive Leaders for OT & IT/OT Convergence
- Program & Project Directors
- Heads of Engineering, Cyber Security, and Automation
- National and Regional Leadership Roles
Why Clients Choose Search Partners
- 20+ years of industry experience
- Deep OT & Automation domain knowledge
- National coverage with specialist candidate networks
- Proven track record of delivering where others fall short
Get in Touch
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes your executive search different?
We specialise in Operational Technology (OT), Industrial Automation, and Digital Transformation. With over 20 years of industry experience, we understand the leadership and technical skills required, from six-figure entry-level roles through to CEO and board appointments.
How does the executive search process work?
A retained model is used, with an engagement fee paid upfront. Market mapping, targeted outreach, and structured assessments are completed, followed by a detailed report with documentation and recommendations.
Which industries do you cover for executive search?
Executive appointments are delivered across infrastructure, energy, water and wastewater, industrial manufacturing, mining, utilities, and critical automation environments, with a focus on leaders who can manage IT/OT convergence and deliver complex projects.
ROLE-SPECIFIC SEARCH DELIVERY
Process-Based Talent Acquisition
Search Partners supports clients with recruitment strategies that accommodate industry regulation, systems integration, and organisational growth. Services are tailored for technical, mid-senior, and executive level appointments across high-compliance sectors, focusing on roles such as SCADA engineers, OT network analysts, commissioning managers, and project leads. Each engagement follows a documented search method that includes candidate briefings, competency validation, and clear stakeholder communication.
Projects often involve permanent recruitment, internal role definition, or expansion into emerging functions such as digital infrastructure or renewable systems management. Delivery models are adapted to suit organisational structures, whether it be facility-based, multi-site, or remote. With Australia-wide reach, Search Partners works across industries requiring aligned workforce strategies, precision in candidate fit, and consistency in onboarding documentation. Recruitment support is available to businesses requiring a dependable and industry-aware hiring process.