Founded over 130 years ago, The Financial Times is one of the world’s leading news organisations, recognised internationally for its authority, integrity and accuracy. It is part of Nikkei Inc., which provides a broad range of information, news and services for the global business community.
Maxwell Stephens had previously worked with the Global Head of FM at The Financial Times at a different organisation. Following the success of these past recruitment campaigns, they approached us again to support in the recruitment of a Facilities Manager and Assistant Facilities Manager for The Financial Times.
The Positions
The main purpose of these positions was to provide support with the full spectrum of facilities management across the company premises, including team management, internal client relations, contractor management, operations and finance management. In addition, the post holders need to provide excellent facilities and customer services to all employees, visitors and stakeholders at all times.
Other key responsibilities of the roles include but are not limited to:
• Supporting the development and leading the performance of security, MEP, reception and front of house teams.
• Building strong relationships with key stakeholders within the business and providing effective customer service provision.
• Assisting with the coordination of CAT B extension works.
• Arranging works with suppliers and contractors, organising planned and reactive support as required.
• Ownership and delivery of the Health and Safety for the office including risk and DSE Assessments.
The Candidate
For these roles we needed to find candidates with knowledge and experience in specific areas. Experience with office fit out works was a necessity for these roles and was contractor management experience. For the more senior FM role it was imperative that the successful candidate has excellent team management skills, with extensive experience of conducting performance reviews. The post holders would need to have a good level of technical understanding and awareness to ensure service excellence from contractors.
In terms of personal qualities and attributes, the Financial Times required candidates who had the initiative and drive to hit the ground running and have a passion for making a real impact in their work. They needed to be success driven, with a focus on achieving both personal and team goals.