Overview
We were tasked with filling a crucial position at Church House, the administrative headquarters of the Church of England. The role required a highly skilled Maintenance Manager to oversee the integrity of the building's plant and fabric, manage a team, and support the goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030. With an exceptional benefits package and a central London location, the role demanded a candidate with the right mix of technical expertise and leadership experience.
The Challenge
The Church House facility, a prestigious listed building, required a Maintenance Manager who could not only maintain the historic fabric of the building but also lead sustainability initiatives and ensure compliance with modern safety standards. Finding a candidate with experience in both traditional building maintenance and modern environmental practices, while also possessing strong leadership and organisational skills, was paramount.
Key challenges included:
• Managing both in-house and external contractors for CCTV, fire, and intruder alarms, and lifts.
• Leading and developing a team of four maintenance staff.
• Driving sustainability efforts, with the goal of Church House becoming carbon neutral by 2030.
• Overseeing the capital works program and ensuring that all maintenance activities were conducted within budget.
Our Approach:
1. Understanding Client Needs: We began by conducting in-depth discussions with the leadership at Church House to fully grasp their specific needs, expectations, and the unique aspects of maintaining a listed property. We focused on identifying candidates with a strong background in building plant management and sustainability, with the ability to lead a team effectively.
2. Targeted Search and Candidate Screening: Using our vast network and facilities management expertise, we conducted a targeted search to identify candidates with over five years of experience in maintenance management, strong knowledge of building systems, and proven success in sustainability initiatives. Experience with listed buildings, though not essential, was considered an asset.
3. Comprehensive Selection Process: We implemented a rigorous screening process that included competency assessments, detailed interviews, and the review of technical knowledge, including experience with Computer-Aided Facility Management (CAFM) systems and health and safety management. We also assessed the candidates' ability to communicate effectively and manage contractor relationships.
The Outcome
We successfully placed a highly qualified Maintenance Manager at Church House. The selected candidate had over a decade of experience in facilities management, with a particular focus on sustainability and team leadership. This individual brought a wealth of knowledge in plant management and a proactive approach to enhancing operational efficiency while aligning with Church House’s carbon-neutral goals.
Impact:
• Sustainability Leadership: The new Maintenance Manager has taken the lead in implementing strategies to reduce the building's carbon footprint, playing a pivotal role in Church House’s long-term goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030.
• Team Development: The individual has successfully managed and developed the in-house maintenance team, ensuring that all maintenance tasks are completed to the highest standard and in compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Operational Efficiency: By streamlining procurement and maintenance processes, the Maintenance Manager has ensured that building upkeep remains within budget and is executed efficiently.
Conclusion:
This successful recruitment highlights our expertise in facilities management recruitment for high-profile, listed buildings like Church House. By understanding the client’s unique needs, we sourced a candidate who not only possessed the technical skills required but also aligned with the Church’s sustainability and cultural values. The result was a seamless fit that supports the long-term operational and environmental objectives of Church House.