Background
We recently filled the urgent role of InterimHead of Facilities Management for Sporting Index, a prominent technologycompany based in London (SE11). This position was critical for maintaining adistinctive and efficient working environment for staff, suppliers, and guests.
The Challenge
The Interim Head of Facilities Management role at Sporting Index involved a broad spectrum of responsibilities, including:
1. Facilities and Operations Management:
Overseeing the office environment, including seating plans to foster creativity and efficiency.
Managing procurement, contracts, health and safety, office space, and office moves.
Implementing new technologies and ensuring robust and efficient processes.
2. Team Leadership:
Leading a team in a high-pressure, open-plan workspace.
Maintaining a visible presence and providing 100% commitment to all tasks.
3. Problem Solving and Flexibility:
Handling conflicting priorities and ambiguous situations with a flexible and proactive approach.
Delivering workspace solutions that engage internal customers and enhance their effectiveness.
The ideal candidate needed substantial experience (at least five years) in a Head of Facilities or Head of Operations role, preferably within a creative or similar environment. They also had to demonstrate strong problem-solving skills, effective relationship management, and a flexible approach to handling diverse and unpredictable challenges.
We leveraged our extensive network and industry expertise to identify and attract top talent for this interim role. Our recruitment process involved:
1. Understanding the Role:
Conducting a detailed analysis of the job description and person specification to fully understand the requirements and expectations of Sporting Index.
2. Sourcing Candidates:
Utilising our vast candidate database, industry contacts, and targeted advertising to attract suitable candidates with the necessary experience and skills.
3. Screening and Selection:
Conducting rigorous screening interviews to assess candidates' suitability, followed by a thorough evaluation of their skills, experience, and cultural fit with the client.
4. Client Collaboration:
Working closely with Sporting Index to ensure alignment on candidate profiles and interview processes.
5. Final Placement:
Facilitating the final interview stages and supporting Sporting Index in making a confident hiring decision.
The Results
We successfully placed an experienced Interim Head of Facilities Management who met and exceeded Sporting Index's stringent requirements. The new Head of Facilities Management has:
• Implemented Effective Facilities Strategies:
Maintained a distinctive and efficient working environment that engaged internal customers and fostered creativity.
• Enhanced Operational Efficiency:
Embraced new technologies and ensured robust and efficient supporting processes.
• Demonstrated Strong Leadership:
Provided visible and committed leadership in the open-plan workspace, effectively managing a team in a high-pressure environment.
• Exhibited Flexibility and Problem-Solving Skills:
Navigated conflicting priorities and ambiguous situations with a proactive and flexible approach, ensuring seamless operations.
Through their dedication and expertise, the Interim Head of Facilities Management has become a valuable asset to Sporting Index, reinforcing its reputation for maintaining an engaging and efficient workspace.