Background
Gatehouse Chambers, formerly known as Hardwicke, is a prominent barristers' chambers located in Gray’s Inn, London. In July 2021, they moved into a newly refurbished office building at 1 Lady Hale Gate. This move marked a significant transition and growth for the Chambers, necessitating a dedicated Facilities Manager to oversee the day-to-day management of their new premises.
The Challenge
Gatehouse Chambers required an exceptional Facilities Manager to ensure their building and facilities operated smoothly, efficiently, and safely. The ideal candidate needed a comprehensive understanding of facilities management, health and safety regulations, and the ability to handle various administrative and operational responsibilities. The role also demanded excellent problem-solving skills, the ability to manage relationships with a diverse range of professionals, and a keen eye for detail.
We undertook a thorough and targeted recruitment process to find a candidate who could meet Gatehouse Chambers’ specific needs. Our strategy included:
1. Understanding the Client's Needs: We engaged closely with the Practice Operations Director to gain a deep understanding of the role's requirements and the unique challenges presented by their new premises.
2. Sourcing Exceptional Candidates: Utilising our extensive network and targeted advertising, we identified candidates with robust facilities management experience, particularly those accustomed to high-stakes environments similar to legal chambers.
3. Screening and Interviews: Candidates underwent a rigorous screening process, including multiple interviews to assess their technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit with Gatehouse Chambers.
4. Final Selection: We presented Gatehouse Chambers with a shortlist of top candidates, all of whom demonstrated exceptional qualifications and a strong alignment with the Chambers’ values and mission.
The Results
The chosen candidate brought extensive experience in facilities management, health and safety compliance, and managing relationships with contractors and service providers. Their ability to anticipate problems, build key relationships, and juggle competing priorities made them an ideal fit for Gatehouse Chambers. Furthermore, their proactive approach and excellent communication skills ensured they could effectively support the Chambers' operations and contribute to its continued success.