Client Overview
The Royal Institution (Ri), an esteemed charity with a mission to provide equitable access to science engagement, has long served as a vibrant hub for science programs, lectures, and public talks. Operating from a historic Grade I listed building on Albemarle Street, London, the Ri is also a key venue for events and houses tenants who contribute to sustaining the institution’s mission. Committed to reducing its carbon footprint while maintaining its unique heritage, the Ri is embarking on an ambitious project, Project FootpRint, a comprehensive retrofit to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability. To lead this transformative initiative, the Ri sought a highly skilled and dedicated Facilities Project Manager.
The Challenge
This was a complex, multifaceted role requiring not only technical expertise in facilities and project management but also a keen understanding of heritage preservation, sustainability, and stakeholder coordination. The ideal candidate needed a blend of experience in heritage properties, retrofit project management, sustainability, and facilities management. Additionally, they had to be adept at overseeing budgets, managing compliance with government funding regulations, and seamlessly coordinating across multiple Ri departments, tenants, and external partners. Given the unique demands of this role, we were entrusted to find a candidate who could align with the Ri's mission and meet the role’s stringent requirements.
Key Responsibilities of the Role
The Facilities Project Manager was accountable for:
• Project FootpRint Leadership: Spearheading the retrofit of the Ri’s historic building, incorporating energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials while preserving its heritage.
• Project Planning and Execution: Collaborating with external project managers to develop and implement detailed project plans, timelines, and budgets.
• Stakeholder Coordination: Working closely with Ri departments, including heritage, science program teams, and venue hire management, to minimise disruption and meet their requirements.
• Governance and Reporting: Leading monthly Project Board meetings, preparing quarterly reports for trustees, and ensuring adherence to internal governance processes.
• Sustainability and Carbon Footprint Reduction: Partnering with sustainability experts to achieve measurable reductions in carbon emissions as part of the retrofit.
• GLA Management and Grant Compliance: Regularly updating the Greater London Authority (GLA) on progress and managing financial reporting in line with GLA grant funding requirements.
• Risk Management: Identifying and mitigating project risks, including compliance and operational disruptions within the heritage setting.
Challenges and Solutions
The role’s complexity was heightened by the need to balance extensive retrofit work with the daily operations of a bustling institution. The right candidate had to be proactive, flexible, and adept at working under pressure. We identified a candidate who not only possessed extensive project and facilities management experience but also demonstrated a strong passion for sustainability and heritage preservation—qualities that resonated with the Ri’s core values. The successful candidate was skilled in managing government-funded projects, stakeholder engagement, and complex reporting, making them the perfect fit for this role.
The Outcome
The appointment of a dedicated Facilities Project Manager at the Ri has been instrumental in progressing Project FootpRint while maintaining the institution’s regular programming and tenant activities. The manager’s expertise in facilities and project management, coupled with their commitment to sustainability and heritage, has enabled smooth project execution, effective stakeholder communication, and financial accountability. This placement underscores our expertise in matching organisations with professionals who not only meet technical requirements but also align with the mission and vision of unique and dynamic institutions like the Royal Institution