TSMC case study

Introduction to TSMC

TSMC created the semiconductor Dedicated IC Foundry business model when it was founded in 1987. Their vision is to be the most advanced and largest technology and foundry services provider to fabless companies and IDMs, and in partnership with them, to forge a powerful competitive force in the semiconductor industry. Their European team is focussed on commercial activities with European clients, technical support, marketing and business operations. Although TSMC doesn’t have a facility in Europe yet, their team has grown rapidly due to success in the European market with revenue accounting to approximately 3-4 billion USD.

Why did they
need Delve?

TSMC’s European Snr Director of Field Support and Technical Marketing had decided to take on a new challenge and thus they asked Delve Search to support with finding a suitable replacement. Finding niche technical and senior level candidates in Europe is extremely competitive and time consuming. Delve Search increases our clients outreach in the candidate market, provide accurate assessments of technical abilities and cultural fit, attract passive candidates and reduce time-to-hire. We are a popular choice for critical hires for fast-growing semiconductor businesses. Our clients are keen to fit the right fit as they can ill-afford to lose time and money on high staff turnover.

The challenge

Although an extremely attractive leadership role for many in the industry, few have the relevant technical background combined with very high level of responsibility and professional network. This person would also need to be located in Amsterdam or be willing to relocate permanently.

Knowing our clients

We have a longstanding relationship with HR and the senior hiring management team at TSMC. Although many of TSMCs activities are highly confidential, they have always been direct and detailed when it comes to the right candidates for their business. Technical experience with VLSI, CMOS and having ‘hands on’ IC design experience is necessary to get through the door, even for senior roles. Although an autonomous European team, they have a great blend of Taiwanese culture of pride, loyalty and rewarding those who earn it, which must be upheld.

Identifying the candidate

When recruiting for senior leadership roles we’ve found a selective headhunt methodology yields the best results. It’s important to not only identify suitable candidates for the role but to also protect the client’s interests. Therefore, a more considered and calculated approach is implemented.

We spent time speaking to our existing network of senior contacts, gaining trusted referrals, and conducting a complete mapping of relevant semiconductor businesses, on an international scale. Instead of initially approaching apprximately 100-150 candidates, we approached 35 well-vetted candidates with discretion and confidentiality.

After three rounds of assessment, we were able to recommend three very strong candidates for the position who were based outside of the Netherlands but willing to consider relocating for the right position.

We provided detailed information outlining our interview findings including why they fit, potential concerns and salary requirements. We’ve found it’s vital to create a transparent and trusting relationship with candidates. From here we consulted on TSMC’s internal selection stages with regular client and candidate debriefs, reference checks and offer negotiation, in order to manage expectations from both sides.

Simply bringing the right people together

Results and ongoing success

Customer feedback is important to us, we measure our success by completion rate, client feedback and repeat business.

The candidate has taken very well to his new role and TSMC supported him well with relocation from Munich. This year we’ve also filled a Technical Manager role for his team and are searching for more candidates as that department continues to grow. We’ve also supported their Business Operations team by finding a great candidate for a role in Customer Support, and aim to enjoy a successful relationship for a long time.

Who are we?

Delve are a search-led international recruitment consultancy focused on supporting lifescience, semiconductor and engineering companies in finding niche technical, commercial and senior management talent. We are passionate about the detail, making every effort to understand the people behind the CVs and the companies behind the job profiles – this is our “Beyond the Paper” approach.

We combine traditional recruitment experience with modern headhunting techniques and technology. This approach allows us to work in partnership with our clients to provide a genuine consultancy service. Delve’s bespoke approach to understanding your business allows us to provide realistic and achievable solutions. Our experienced team have a long track record of completing niche talent searches for life science, semiconductor and engineering companies globally. Our solutions are bespoke – we offer the solution that we feel will give you the most value based on your requirements

Reach out to see how we can support you in your search for talent.

UK: +44 (0) 1606 212020 / Ger: +49 89 5419 5924

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