The Challenge
The Royal Astronomical Society (RAS), a prestigious learned society based in a historic Grade II* listed building at Burlington House, faced a critical resourcing gap. While planning for a long-term refurbishment and future permanent Facilities Manager hire, the organisation urgently required interim support to maintain operational continuity.
With a hybrid workforce, a heritage estate, and increasing momentum behind a major building improvement programme, RAS needed a capable, hands-on professional who could quickly step in and stabilise facilities operations.
The role required a balance of practical delivery, compliance oversight, and stakeholder support—all within a complex and sensitive historic environment.
The Brief
We were engaged to source a temporary Facilities Manager to:
• Provide immediate on-site support (4–5 days per week)
• Maintain health & safety compliance through regular checks and record-keeping
• Coordinate reactive and planned maintenance
• Implement a simple Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) system
• Supervise contractors and ensure safe working practices
• Improve overall presentation and organisation of the building
• Support staff with facilities, AV, and general troubleshooting
• Provide reception cover during busy periods
• Assist with early-stage refurbishment planning alongside a senior consultant
The client was open to candidates ranging from ambitious junior professionals seeking development to experienced FM practitioners looking for a varied, hands-on assignment.
Our Approach
We leveraged its specialist facilities management network to identify candidates with:
• Experience in hands-on facilities roles within complex or heritage environments
• Strong health & safety awareness (IOSH/NEBOSH desirable)
• A proactive, “can-do” attitude suited to a small team
• The ability to operate both strategically and operationally
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
We focused on individuals who could quickly adapt, take ownership, and bring structure to an evolving facilities function.
The Outcome
We successfully placed a highly capable Facilities professional who:
• Rapidly embedded into the organisation and built strong relationships with staff and contractors
• Introduced structure to maintenance planning through a clear and manageable PPM schedule
• Ensured compliance with health & safety requirements, improving audit readiness
• Enhanced the day-to-day presentation and functionality of the building
• Provided reliable operational support across facilities, events, and reception
• Added value to the early stages of the refurbishment project
The successful candidate brought both stability and momentum, enabling RAS to confidently progress its long-term estate strategy.
Client Impact
• Immediate operational continuity during a transitional period
• Improved visibility and control over facilities management processes
• Enhanced building standards and user experience
• Stronger foundation for future capital works and permanent recruitment