Background
OC&C Strategy Consultants, a leading global consulting firm, needed a highly skilled Facilities Manager to oversee all property and office-related services. The role was critical to the smooth running of the firm's offices: managing a diverse team, maintaining high service standards and keeping the building working for a demanding professional audience. OC&C engaged Maxwell Stephens to run the search.
The Facilities Manager's responsibilities included managing the reception team, overseeing IT-related issues, and ensuring effective cost management and budget control. Beyond that, the role required comprehensive management capability to maintain the building, handle health and safety matters and coordinate with third-party contractors.
The Challenge
The search was demanding because of the breadth of the role. The brief required:
- Comprehensive management. Overseeing office services including reception, IT and building maintenance.
- Effective leadership. Managing and motivating a core office team and ensuring front-of-house standards.
- Budget control. Handling budgetary responsibilities and the financial management of facilities operations.
- Stakeholder liaison. Coordinating with landlords, suppliers and internal departments to keep operations running smoothly.
- Project support. Assisting with office redesigns, moves and internal events.
In a professional services office the facilities function is judged on how it feels to partners, staff and visiting clients, not only on whether the building works. That places a premium on candidates who combine strong leadership and a sound understanding of facilities management with the ability to handle complex operational challenges while managing costs effectively.
Our Approach
Maxwell Stephens undertook a detailed recruitment process to identify a candidate who met the specific requirements set out by OC&C Strategy Consultants. Our approach included:
- In-depth analysis. Understanding OC&C's specific needs, including the scope of responsibilities and the key performance indicators the appointee would be measured against.
- Network-led search. Drawing on our established network in facilities management to reach candidates with the necessary experience and skills, rather than relying on advertising response.
- Thorough vetting. Conducting multiple interviews and assessments to confirm that candidates had the right blend of management experience, technical expertise and leadership qualities.
The competencies we assessed against were:
- Leadership. The ability to manage and motivate teams, including receptionists and IT staff.
- Budget management. Experience of handling budgets and controlling costs effectively.
- Communication. Proficiency in liaising with stakeholders such as landlords, suppliers and internal staff.
- Project management. Skills in overseeing office moves, redesigns and internal events.
- Health & safety knowledge. A sound understanding of health and safety regulations and building management.
After a rigorous search and evaluation, we identified a candidate who met these criteria and was well suited to managing OC&C's facilities.
The Outcome
The Facilities Manager appointed for OC&C Strategy Consultants brought substantial experience in facilities management, including overseeing reception teams, managing budgets and liaising with a range of stakeholders. In post, they have performed strongly across the full remit:
- Team management. Leading the reception team and coordinating with IT and other departments.
- Building maintenance. Ensuring the upkeep of the building and handling all health and safety matters.
- Cost management. Managing budgets, approving invoices and controlling purchasing processes.
- Project support. Assisting with office moves, redesigns and internal events, including preparations for a move to New Street Square.
- Supplier coordination. Overseeing third-party contractors and managing office supplies and security procedures.
The new Facilities Manager's leadership and expertise have contributed significantly to the smooth operation of OC&C's facilities, maintaining high service standards and effective cost control. Their proactive approach and strong management skills have supported both the firm's strategic objectives and its day-to-day operations.
Why This Placement Worked
Facilities Manager roles in consulting firms are often broader than the title implies, taking in front-of-house, IT support, budgets and project work as well as the building itself. This search mapped the full scope at the outset and assessed every candidate against each element, which is why the appointee was able to take on the whole role rather than a part of it.
If you are recruiting a Facilities Manager for a professional services office, Maxwell Stephens can help you define the brief and reach candidates who cover the full range. Get in touch with our team.