Background & Client Overview
Martin-Baker appointed Maxwell Stephens to recruit an experienced Facilities Manager to strengthen the management of its operational environment.
The role required a Facilities Management professional capable of combining day-to-day operational control with a focus on efficiency, cost management, compliance and the wider needs of the organisation.
Founded in 1934 by Sir James Martin and Captain Valentine Baker, Martin-Baker is best known for its ejection seats, which the company says had saved 7,827 lives by 2026. It is based at Higher Denham in Buckinghamshire and uses Chalgrove Airfield in Oxfordshire for testing.
The Challenge
Martin-Baker required a candidate who could take ownership of Facilities Management activity while identifying opportunities to improve service delivery and operating efficiency.
The successful professional needed strong contractor and supplier management skills, a sound understanding of health and safety and compliance, commercial awareness and the ability to build effective relationships with internal stakeholders and the wider local community.
The Market for This Role
Our 2026 salary benchmarks put Facilities Manager roles at around £40,000 to £65,000, depending on location, sector and scope.
On an engineering and manufacturing site, the Facilities Manager also works alongside production and safety-critical operations. That narrows the field to managers who have run facilities on an operational site, not only in an office.
Our Recruitment Approach
Maxwell Stephens conducted a targeted search for experienced Facilities Managers with the operational depth and leadership capability required for the assignment.
Assessment focused on practical Facilities Management experience, cost control, compliance, stakeholder management, problem solving and the ability to introduce structured improvement.
Outcome
Maxwell Stephens successfully placed a Facilities Manager.
The role covered day-to-day facilities operations, contractor and supplier management, cost control, compliance and relationships with internal stakeholders and the local community.
Looking for an experienced Facilities Manager to improve operational performance? Contact Maxwell Stephens to discuss your recruitment requirements.
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