"You found exactly what we were looking for — when no one else could.”
Background
One of our long-standing data centre clients in Singapore recently faced a persistent challenge in filling a Senior Solutions Engineer position—a role that sat at the intersection of engineering expertise and client-facing engagement. The position was critical, requiring not only strong technical proficiency in data centre infrastructure and design, but also the ability to engage clients, present complex solutions, and influence key decision-makers.
The role had been open for several months, with multiple recruiters attempting to fill the vacancy. Over 20 candidates were interviewed during this time, but nearly all failed to pass either the technical evaluation or the presentation round, which included client scenario workshops and executive-level pitch simulations.
The Challenge
- Many candidates were technically sound but lacked the communication skills, business acumen, or stakeholder management abilities required for a client-facing role.
- Those with the right soft skills often lacked hands-on experience in engineering design, data centre fit-outs, or Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) tools essential for this role.
Our Solution
We then:
- Recalibrated the search criteria, narrowing down only to candidates with proven success in pre-sales or solution engineering roles within data centre environments.
- Applied a dual-lens assessment — evaluating both technical proficiency (CFD, M&E schematics, design documentation) and client-facing competence (presentation delivery, stakeholder influence, commercial awareness).
- Conducted pre-screen mock presentation assessments with shortlisted candidates to evaluate clarity, communication style, and ability to simplify technical content.
- Had deep experience in data centre solution design and customer engagement
- Had previously led technical workshops, pitch deck presentations, and solution walk-throughs for regional enterprise clients
- Was well-versed in AutoCAD, BlueBeam, CFD modelling, and had a confident, executive-ready communication style
The Result
- Passed both the technical and presentation rounds with flying colours
- Was complimented by multiple stakeholders as exceeding all expectations
- Was offered and onboarded within the same month, ending a months-long hiring struggle
