How ML6 Delivered a Director of Projects Executive Search

THE CLIENT: A Leading Canadian Energy & Engineering Organization

Our client is a Canadian energy and engineering organization recognized for its expertise in designing, building, and executing complex projects across the resource sector. Known for its innovative approach and collaborative culture, the company has played a key role in advancing large-scale energy initiatives and continues to be a trusted partner in the industry.

THE CHALLENGE: Securing the Right Leader Amid Sensitive Internal Dynamics

The organization faced a high-stakes leadership challenge. They needed to appoint a new Director of Projects with deep expertise in heavy thermal oil (SAGD).

The stakes were significant: internal restructuring meant that existing directors were being reassigned or demoted, and the company could not risk conducting this search in-house. The new leader would report directly to the VP of Operations and needed to bring not only technical expertise but also the leadership strength to stabilize, coach, and empower teams through change.

Key requirements included:

• Proven experience as both a Project Engineer and a Project Manager

• A track record leading engineering departments

• A Professional Engineering (P.Eng.) designation for permitting and regulatory needs

• Strong leadership traits—able to guide through chaos and coach teams rather than take over tasks

• Successful completion of a rigorous Omni 360 leadership assessment

THE SOLUTION: A Targeted Executive Search

ML6 Search + Talent Advisory designed a highly targeted market mapping strategy across Canada’s energy sector. Leveraging our deep networks and trusted relationships, we engaged both passive and active candidates with discretion and professionalism.

To protect the client’s internal stability, every potential candidate signed an NDA before moving through the process. This ensured that sensitive organizational changes remained private while still attracting top-tier external leadership talent.

Within six business days, ML6 delivered a shortlist of five highly qualified candidates who met both the technical and leadership requirements. Each candidate was vetted for engineering expertise, industry knowledge, and leadership capability.

THE OUTCOME: A Standout Hire in Just 41 Days

The client moved quickly, interviewing four of the five shortlisted candidates. One exceptional leader emerged as the clear choice.

Despite multiple interview rounds, an external leadership assessment, and the added challenge of summer scheduling, the entire search was completed in just 41 days from launch to accepted offer.

By combining speed, discretion, and sector expertise, ML6 successfully delivered a future-focused executive who will help strengthen the client’s leadership team and drive operational excellence.