Placing a Reservoir Modeling Expert to Advance E&P Software Innovation

Subject Matter Expert Hired who Optimized and Developed E&P Software with $40+ Million in Revenue

Challenge: Finding a Reservoir Modeling Expert to Improve E&P Software

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The Managing Director of an E&P software division within a broader geoscience services company recognized that while their platform was solid, staying competitive required deep user insight and real-world experience embedded into development.

That meant hiring an experienced reservoir modeler who would:

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• Serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) with deep geoscience and reservoir modeling expertise

• Transition from hands-on field work to a product development role

• Adapt to working on the service side of oil and gas, not within an operator

• Be open to a competitive compensation package, but below E&P norms

• Align with the company's mission to enhance tools used by geoscientists globally
   

This was more than a technical hire; it required a mindset shift and vision alignment to transform how reservoir modeling tools were developed and deployed.​

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Solution: Market Mapping and High-Touch Candidate Engagement

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TLR Search approached the search with a strategic, relationship-first methodology, designed for alignment and long-term success.

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We:

• Mapped the reservoir modeling market, targeting passive and under-the-radar talent

• Assessed candidates holistically, evaluating both skills and professional aspirations

• Shared the company’s story and vision, helping talent understand their future impact

• Positioned the opportunity as a rare chance to shape software used by technical peers
   

A trusted industry source referred one standout candidate: an independent consultant with no digital footprint, known only through word-of-mouth referrals. She was initially hesitant, but after several high-touch conversations about the company, team, and long-term potential, she chose to pursue the opportunity.

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Result: A Strategic Hire with Long-Term Business Value

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Following a collaborative interview process, the candidate accepted the offer. Over the next nine years, she:

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• Optimized and enhanced core E&P software tools

• Brought critical user insight to the development lifecycle

• Contributed to $40+ million in revenue growth

• Remained through an acquisition, continuing to drive product innovation
   

The outcome reflects a successful hire and the value of our high-touch, insight-led executive search process.

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Looking for a subject matter expert who can elevate your product?

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