Background
We were tasked with recruiting a Facilities and Health & Safety Manager for Somerset House Trust, a renowned arts center in London. Somerset House, steeped in history and cultural significance, required a professional capable of managing its diverse facilities, ensuring health and safety compliance, and promoting sustainability initiatives. With a focus on maintaining its heritage buildings and hosting large-scale events, Somerset House sought a candidate with a decisive, practical approach and excellent stakeholder management skills.
The Challenge
The recruitment process presented several challenges, including the complex nature of managing a heritage building with public access and hosting diverse events. The temporary nature of the contract, spanning three to six months, required finding a candidate who could quickly adapt to the role and efficiently address the site's facilities and health & safety needs. The Facilities and Health & Safety Manager would be responsible for coordinating H&S training, managing contractors, overseeing sustainability efforts, and maintaining compliance with budgets and regulations.
The Results:
We successfully placed a skilled Facilities and Health & Safety Manager at Somerset House Trust, who demonstrated exceptional capabilities in managing the site's facilities and promoting health and safety practices. Over the contract period, the appointed manager efficiently implemented key H&S actions, coordinated training programs, and facilitated the effectiveness of the H&S Committee. They also played a crucial role in sustainability initiatives, completing sustainability reviews and assisting in the development of a sustainability plan. Through proactive communication and decisive leadership, the manager effectively managed contractors, maintained budgetary control, and built strong relationships with stakeholders, including resident creative businesses. Their contributions supported Somerset House Trust's mission of promoting creativity, diversity, and inclusivity while ensuring a safe and sustainable environment for visitors and staff alike.