Background
London South Bank University (LSBU) partnered with Maxwell Stephens to fill several critical roles within its administrative and support staff. Drawing on our experience of recruiting for the facilities management sector, we placed 4 professionals in positions central to the university's day-to-day operations: a Business Support Manager (Contract Services), a Group Head of Business Support, a QHSE Manager and a Group Maintenance Manager.
Filling several roles for one client within the same function is a different exercise from a single search. The appointments have to work alongside each other, and the client's confidence in the process is built or lost with each one. The account below takes the roles in turn.
The Placements
Business Support Manager (Contract Services)
In response to LSBU's evolving needs, Maxwell Stephens searched for an experienced professional to fill the role of Business Support Manager (Contract Services). The position called for a strategic thinker with close attention to detail and a proven track record of managing contractual agreements so that service delivery runs without interruption.
After an extensive search and selection process, we identified and secured a candidate whose experience of negotiating and managing contracts matched LSBU's requirements closely. The newly appointed Business Support Manager brought substantial expertise in overseeing contractual obligations, improving vendor relationships and implementing efficient processes to raise service quality while controlling cost.
"Professionals, who take ownership and pride in what they do. This extends support services when contracting. I have found them to be responsive, skilled and have the ability to listen to their candidates. By a large margin one of the best agencies I have worked with."
Group Head of Business Support
Recognising the importance of cohesive leadership across its support functions, LSBU asked Maxwell Stephens to find a leader to serve as Group Head of Business Support. This pivotal role required someone capable of bringing together the different strands of business support services and aligning them with LSBU's strategic objectives.
We identified a candidate whose leadership record and strategic thinking impressed LSBU's selection panel. The appointed Group Head of Business Support brought extensive experience of leading multifunctional teams, simplifying processes and building a culture of collaboration and innovation.
I've been working with Maxwell Stephens for a few years now, and they have consistently impressed me with their speed, professionalism, and accuracy. In addition to their efficiency, they also offer a friendly, personal touch and demonstrate a deep understanding of the recruitment process. This is crucial, as recruitment needs can vary greatly across industries and among candidates. I highly recommend their services.
QHSE Manager
The health, safety and environmental sustainability of LSBU's facilities underpin the university's commitment to a safe and productive learning and working environment. Understanding the critical role of a dedicated Quality, Health, Safety and Environmental (QHSE) Manager, LSBU partnered with Maxwell Stephens to find a professional capable of implementing robust policies and procedures to safeguard the well-being of all stakeholders.
Through a comprehensive search, we identified a candidate with a proven track record of developing and implementing effective QHSE strategies within complex organisational settings. The newly appointed QHSE Manager brought extensive expertise in risk management, compliance and sustainability initiatives, helping LSBU's facilities adhere to high standards of safety and environmental responsibility. Their proactive approach and attention to detail have supported LSBU's standing as a responsible steward of its resources and a safe environment for students, faculty and staff.
"Maxwell Stephens have recently placed me in an exciting role. Annabel and Peter supported me through the whole process and continue to follow-up on progress. Thank you to you both"
Group Maintenance Manager
In an institution as varied as LSBU, maintaining the integrity and functionality of its facilities is essential to supporting the academic mission. Recognising the need for a skilled professional to oversee maintenance operations across LSBU's diverse campus, Maxwell Stephens set out to find a Group Maintenance Manager who combined technical expertise with management capability.
After a rigorous selection process, we identified a candidate whose thorough understanding of maintenance best practice and proven leadership impressed LSBU's hiring committee.
Why These Placements Worked
Business support, QHSE and maintenance roles are often recruited in isolation, by different hiring managers and through different agencies. Running them through one partner means each search benefits from what was learned about the client's culture, selection panels and standards on the one before, and the appointments are made with an eye to how the team fits together.
If you are recruiting across several facilities, estates or business support roles at once — building a team rather than filling a single post — Maxwell Stephens can manage the programme as a whole. Get in touch with our team.