Background & Purpose
OC&C Strategy Consultants, a leading global consulting firm, sought a highly skilled Facilities Manager to oversee all property and office-related services. The role was critical for ensuring seamless operations across the firm’s offices, managing a diverse team, and maintaining high service standards.
The Facilities Manager's responsibilities included managing the reception team, overseeing IT-related issues, and ensuring effective cost management and budget control. This role required comprehensive management capabilities to maintain the building, handle health and safety matters, and coordinate with third-party contractors.
The Challenge
The search for a Facilities Manager was challenging due to the multifaceted nature of the role, which required:
• Comprehensive Management: Overseeing office services, including reception, IT, and building maintenance.
• Effective Leadership: Managing and motivating a core office team and ensuring front-of-house standards.
• Budget Control: Handling budgetary responsibilities and financial management related to facilities operations.
• Stakeholder Liaison: Coordinating with landlords, suppliers, and internal departments to ensure smooth operations.
• Project Support: Assisting with office redesigns, moves, and internal events.
The ideal candidate needed to possess strong leadership skills, a keen understanding of facilities management, and the ability to handle complex operational challenges while managing costs effectively.
Recruitment Process
Our team undertook a detailed recruitment process to identify a candidate who met the specific requirements outlined by OC&C Strategy Consultants. Our approach included:
• In-depth Analysis: Understanding the specific needs of OC&C, including the scope of responsibilities and key performance indicators.
• Extensive Network Utilisation: Leveraging our extensive network in facilities management to find candidates with the necessary experience and skills.
• Thorough Vetting: Conducting multiple interviews and assessments to ensure candidates had the right blend of management experience, technical expertise, and leadership qualities.
Key competencies sought included:
• Leadership: Ability to manage and motivate teams, including receptionists and IT staff.
• Budget Management: Experience in handling budgets and controlling costs effectively.
• Communication Skills: Proficiency in liaising with stakeholders such as landlords, suppliers, and internal staff.
• Project Management: Skills in overseeing office moves, redesigns, and internal events.
• Health & Safety Knowledge: Understanding of health and safety regulations and building management.
After a rigorous search and evaluation, we successfully identified a candidate who met these criteria and was well-suited to manage OC&C’s facilities effectively.
The Results
The Facilities Manager selected for OC&C Strategy Consultants brought a wealth of experience in facilities management, including overseeing reception teams, managing budgets, and liaising with various stakeholders. They excelled in:
• Team Management: Effectively leading the reception team and coordinating with IT and other departments.
• Building Maintenance: Ensuring the upkeep of the building and handling all health and safety matters.
• Cost Management: Managing budgets, approving invoices, and controlling purchasing processes.
• Project Support: Assisting with office moves, redesigns, and internal events, including preparations for a move to New Street Square.
• Supplier Coordination: Overseeing third-party contractors and managing office supplies and security procedures.
The new Facilities Manager's leadership and expertise significantly contributed to the smooth operation of OC&C’s facilities, maintaining high service standards and ensuring effective cost management. Their proactive approach and strong management skills have been instrumental in supporting the firm's strategic objectives and day-to-day operations.