Hiring a GIS Product Manager for a SaaS Solution in Leak Detection for Utilities
and Oil & Gas

Challenge: Key Product Role Required for Growth

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The CEO and VP of R&D at a family-owned manufacturing and service company specializing in leak detection were preparing to launch a new SaaS product: a GIS-based application essential to future growth. They needed a Product Manager to lead development and align the product with the company’s broader vision.

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But despite their efforts, they weren’t finding the right person. The position remained open longer than anticipated, creating costly delays and missed momentum.

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The ideal candidate needed to check multiple boxes:

• Strong experience managing SaaS software products

• GIS expertise

• Industry knowledge in leak detection (or closely related sectors)

• The ability to work cross-functionally and shape a strategic product roadmap
   

The combination of technical depth, industry familiarity, and leadership capability made this a particularly challenging role to fill.

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Solution: High-Touch Search + Candidate Branding

 

TLR Search partnered directly with leadership to define success for the role, not just the resume.

What we did:

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• Co-created the job description with CEO and VP input

• Mapped the GIS talent landscape across relevant industries

• Prioritized outreach to passive candidates in niche markets

• Positioned the opportunity clearly, showcasing the product’s impact and the company’s mission

• Branded the role effectively to attract under-the-radar talent who wouldn’t have applied on their own
   

When initial interviews didn’t reveal the complete picture of top candidates, we stepped in to:

• Debrief with hiring managers and flag where hidden strengths were overlooked

• Suggest reframing interview questions to uncover key attributes

• Provide insights to align team expectations across decision-makers

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Result: Strategic Hire Despite Counteroffers

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The candidate we identified as the standout choice proved his fit in the second round of interviews, aligning on all key attributes. We extended an offer, which he accepted.

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However, when the candidate gave notice, he received multiple counteroffers from his current employer.

TLR Search:

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• Helped the candidate navigate the resignation with confidence

• Kept him engaged throughout his transition

• Ensured alignment stayed strong until his successful start date
   

This strategic hire is now leading a multi-million dollar SaaS initiative, driving growth and innovation for the company.

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Need to hire for a complex product or technical role?

Whether you're launching a new product or solution or scaling your team, we help you find leaders who align with your mission and stay for the long haul.​

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Let’s talk about how we can support your next critical hire, before time and momentum slip away.

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