Background & Client Overview
We had the opportunity to partner with King’s College London (KCL) in filling the crucial role of PFI Manager within their Estates & Facilities Department. This case study outlines the process and strategies that led to a successful placement, ensuring that KCL secured a candidate who would excel in managing the complex requirements of their PFI (Private Finance Initiative) buildings, New Hunt’s House and the Franklin Wilkins Building.
King’s College London is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, known for its outstanding teaching, research, and contributions to numerous fields. The Estates & Facilities Department at KCL plays a vital role in maintaining the university's infrastructure, ensuring that it meets the needs of staff, students, and visitors. The PFI Manager role is pivotal in liaising with KCL’s PFI partners and managing the services within these key buildings.
The Role & Challenges Faced
The PFI Manager at KCL is tasked with acting as the primary client representative for the university’s PFI contract. The position requires a professional who can manage the relationship with the PFI partners, oversee the delivery of projects, and ensure that all services meet the university’s high standards. Key responsibilities include defining project scope, managing budgets, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, and driving the university’s sustainability agenda.
Recruiting for this role presented several challenges:
1. Specialised Skill Set: The role required a candidate with extensive experience in managing PFI contracts, coupled with strong project management skills and a deep understanding of compliance and health and safety regulations.
2. High-Level Communication: The candidate needed to have excellent communication skills to effectively liaise between KCL staff and PFI partners.
3. Sustainability Focus: KCL's commitment to sustainability meant the candidate had to demonstrate a clear understanding of energy and carbon reduction initiatives.
4. Multi-site Management: The role required managing operations across multiple sites, necessitating a candidate with experience in a multi-site environment.
The Outcome
Our targeted approach resulted in the successful placement of a highly qualified PFI Manager at King’s College London. The selected candidate not only met but exceeded the requirements of the role, bringing a wealth of experience in PFI contract management, project delivery, and sustainability initiatives. The candidate quickly integrated into the KCL team and has been instrumental in driving forward several key projects, ensuring that the university’s facilities continue to support its world-class teaching and research activities.